Multiple small bowel cavernous hemangiomas complicated with intussusception presenting with intestinal obstruction: rare case report from Sudan and literature review

Introduction: Multiple cavernous hemangiomas (MCH) of the small intestine are a rare condition of the small bowel, with intussusception being an even rarer complication. Case presentation: We report the first documented case of MCH from Sudan. An 11-year-old Sudanese woman with a long history of unexplained anemia presented with acute abdominal pain, vomiting, and absolute constipation, indicative of a mechanical bowel obstruction supported by X-ray findings of the abdomen. Failing conservative management, she underwent an emergent laparotomy. Intraoperatively, an ileoileal intussusception with multiple hemangiomas as the lead point, causing proximal bowel dilatation and ischemia, was discovered. Segmental resection of the ischemic portion of the small bowel and wedge resections of the largest hemangiomas were performed. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of cavernous hemangioma. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative course and remained well during follow-up. AI was used to improve writing and organization. Discussion: This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of small bowel hemangiomas, particularly when presenting with rare complications like intussusception, although in this case it presented with typical and some occasional features of hemangioma. Conclusion: While surgical resection remains the gold standard for symptomatic cases of MCH, this report underscores the importance of considering this rare condition in patients with unexplained chronic anemia, acute abdominal symptoms, or both, to ensure timely and effective management.