**Core Concept**
Pseudo-obstruction of the intestine refers to a condition where there is a failure of the intestinal muscles to move food, fluid, and gas through the intestines, mimicking the symptoms of a mechanical obstruction, but without any physical blockage.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pseudo-obstruction is often associated with a lack of coordinated peristalsis, which is the rhythmic muscle contractions that help move food through the digestive system. This can be due to various factors, including neuropathic conditions, such as diabetic neuropathy, or myopathic conditions, such as muscular dystrophy. The condition can also be caused by medications, such as opioids, or as a result of an underlying medical condition, such as scleroderma.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Intestinal obstruction - This is incorrect because pseudo-obstruction does not involve a physical blockage in the intestine, unlike a mechanical obstruction.
**Option B:** Ileus - This is incorrect because ileus refers to a lack of movement in the intestines, but it is not a specific diagnosis and can be a symptom of various conditions, including pseudo-obstruction.
**Option C:** Intussusception - This is incorrect because intussusception is a condition where one part of the intestine slides into another, causing a physical blockage, which is not the case in pseudo-obstruction.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Pseudo-obstruction should be considered in patients with symptoms of intestinal obstruction, but without any physical evidence of a blockage.
**Correct Answer:** C.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.