Sigmoid volvulus: new thoughts on the epidemiology.

Sigmoid volvulus usually affects the elderly, but it is being increasingly described in a younger age group. In these patients the diagnosis is often delayed, due to a prolonged and intermittent history. Three patients, of 31,36, and 67 years, are described here, and they demonstrate an increased incidence within families, which has not been previously recognized. Awareness of this possibility may allow earlier diagnosis when investigating young patients with intermittent abdominal symptoms, whose relatives are known to be affected.