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Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Decreasing incidence.
J P Nielsen1, P Haahr, J Haahr
1Paediatric Department, Viborg Sygehus. jpnielsen@dadlnet.dk
Danish Medical Bulletin
|July 29, 2000
Summary
Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) incidence has significantly decreased in Denmark since 1993. This trend accelerated in recent years, with unknown causes potentially linked to infant sleep positioning recommendations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Clinical observations suggested a declining frequency of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS).
- This study aimed to investigate the incidence trends of IHPS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm or refute the clinical suspicion of a decreasing incidence of pyloric stenosis.
- To analyze regional and national trends in IHPS diagnoses and surgical interventions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of hospital records for IHPS surgeries in Viborg County (1973-1997).
- Nationwide data analysis using the National Registry of Patients for IHPS diagnoses and operations (1977-1997).
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in IHPS surgeries was observed in Viborg County and nationwide.
- Incidence rates per 1000 liveborn children in Viborg County dropped from 1.6-2.8 to 0.9 by 1996-1997.
- National data showed a decline from 2.2-3.2 per 1000 liveborn children to 1.1 by 1996-1997, starting in 1993.
Conclusions:
- A significant decrease in IHPS incidence has occurred in Denmark.
- The decline, initiated in 1993, has accelerated without a definitively identified cause.
- The trend coincides with altered infant sleep positioning recommendations, though a causal link remains uncertain.