National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Ogilvie syndrome


Other Names:
Ogilvie's syndrome; Acute colonic ileus; Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction; Ogilvie's syndrome; Acute colonic ileus; Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction; ACPO See More
Ogilvie syndrome is a rare condition that affects the large intestines (colon). Although the signs and symptoms mimic those of an intestinal blockage, there is no physical obstruction. Instead, the symptoms are due to nerve or muscle problems that affect peristalsis (the involuntary, rhythmic muscular contractions that move food, fluid, and air through the intestines). In people affected by Ogilvie syndrome, the symptoms come on suddenly and may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention (swelling), constipation, and/or diarrhea. If untreated, the condition can cause malnutrition, bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, and weight loss. The underlying cause of Ogilvie syndrome is poorly understood. However, it usually occurs in adults when the colon becomes enlarged after surgery, illness or injury. Treatment options for Ogilvie syndrome include supportive therapy that addresses associated symptoms, medications, decompression (a procedure that reduces pressure within the colon) and surgery.[1][2][3]
Last updated: 4/27/2016

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Organizations Supporting this Disease

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

  • MedlinePlus was designed by the National Library of Medicine to help you research your health questions, and it provides more information about this topic.
  • The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NIDDK) conducts and supports research on a broad spectrum of diseases affecting public health. Click on the link to view information on this topic.
  • The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has a report for patients and families about this condition. NORD is a patient advocacy organization for individuals with rare diseases and the organizations that serve them.

In-Depth Information

  • Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Ogilvie syndrome. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  1. Remy P. Ogilvie syndrome. NORD. 2012; http://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/ogilvie-syndrome/.
  2. Camilleri M. Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (Ogilvie's syndrome). UpToDate. March 2015; https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acute-colonic-pseudo-obstruction-ogilvies-syndrome.
  3. Intestinal Pseudo-obstruction. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. February 2014; https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/intestinal-pseudo-obstruction.