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[GASTRODUODENAL ULCER IN PEDIATRICS]
Insights
Peptic ulcer disease is common in children, affecting 10.3% of those with upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Gastroduodenal ulcers, particularly primary ones, were more frequent in older males and often complicated by bleeding.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
- Peptic Ulcer Disease
Background:
- Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a significant concern in pediatric populations.
- Recurrent abdominal pain in children warrants investigation for potential gastrointestinal issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the morbidity and characteristics of gastroduodenal peptic ulcers in children under 15.
- To analyze the incidence, types, risk factors, and complications of PUD in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 476 endoscopic reports from 435 children (under 15 years old) with upper gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Diagnosis of gastroduodenal ulcers based on endoscopic findings between December 1989 and December 1994.
Main Results:
- Gastroduodenal ulcers were diagnosed in 10.3% of children.
- Primary ulcers (55%) were more common in older children/teenagers, while secondary ulcers (45%) were linked to ulcerogenic drugs.
- Male predominance was observed for both ulcer types; 42% of primary ulcers had a family history.
- Complications, primarily gastrointestinal bleeding (73%), were frequent.
Conclusions:
- Peptic ulcer disease is not rare in children and should be suspected in cases of recurrent abdominal pain.
- Endoscopic evaluation is crucial for diagnosing PUD in symptomatic pediatric patients.
- Understanding risk factors and presentation aids in early diagnosis and management of pediatric PUD.
Abstract:
476 endoscopic reports of 435 children under 15 years old of both sexes were reviewed to determine the morbility of gastroduodenal peptic ulcer. Endoscopy was performed because they had symptoms referred to the upper gastrointestinal tract between December 1989 and December 1994. Gastroduodenal ulcer was diagnosed in forty five children (10,3%). Primary ulcer was diagnosed in twenty four patients (55%) and secondary ulcers in twenty one (45%), being the administration of ulcerogenic drugs the main factor involved. Primary ulcer was more frequently diagnosed in older children and teenagers and localized mainly in the duodenum. Male sex was predominant in both types of ulcers. 42% of children with primary ulcers had familiar ocurrence of ulcer disease. Thirty three patients (73%) had complications, being gastrointestinal bleeding the most frequent. Ulcer disease is not rare in children and must be suspected in patients with recurrent abdominal pain.