Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome 5137557 91283695 2006-12-01T01:25:48Z Frédérick Lacasse 520206 stub sorting '''Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome''' ('''DIOS''') involves blockage of the [[intestines]] by thickened [[feces|stool]] and occurs in individuals with [[cystic fibrosis]]. DIOS was previously known as '''[[meconium ileus]] equivalent''', a name which highlights its similarity to the intestinal obstruction seen in newborn infants with cystic fibrosis. DIOS tends to occur in older individuals with [[pancreatic insufficiency]]. Individuals with DIOS may be predisposed to [[constipation]]. Symptoms of DIOS include crampy [[abdominal pain]], [[vomiting]], and a palpable mass in the abdomen. [[Radiology|X-rays]] of the abdomen may reveal stool in the colon and air-fluid levels in the [[small intestines|small bowel]]. [[Surgery]] is often required to relieve the obstruction. However, if there is no sign of bowel rupture, a more conservative approach may be attempted. Restricting oral intake, placement of a [[nasogastric tube]] for decompression of the [[stomach]] and proximal intestines, and administration of [[laxative]]s and [[enema]]s may resolve the obstruction without the need for surgery. Individuals prone to DIOS tend to be at risk for repeated episodes and often require maintenance therapy with pancreatic enzyme replacement and stool softeners. ==References== Khoshoo V, Udall JN Jr. ''Meconium ileus equivalent in children and adults.'' Am J Gastroenterol. 1994 Feb;89(2):153-7. PMID 8304294 [[Category:Gastroenterology]] {{med-stub}}