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Acute hydrops of the gallbladder in childhood
S Crankson1, H Nazer, B Jacobsson
1Department of Surgery, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Insights
Acute hydrops of the gallbladder (AHGB) is a rare pediatric condition increasingly diagnosed via ultrasound. Its symptoms mimic common surgical issues, but diagnosis requires imaging showing a distended gallbladder without stones.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Acute hydrops of the gallbladder (AHGB) is a rare pediatric condition.
- Increased diagnosis is linked to associated illnesses and improved ultrasonography availability.
- Clinical presentation can mimic more common surgical emergencies in children.
Observation:
- Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal mass, and tenderness.
- Diagnostic challenges arise as features overlap with appendicitis, intussusception, and volvulus.
- Some cases are incidentally discovered during laparotomy.
Findings:
- Abdominal ultrasonography is key for diagnosis.
- Ultrasound reveals a distended gallbladder without calculi or congenital anomalies.
- Biliary ducts are typically normal in caliber.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of AHGB is crucial for appropriate management.
- Understanding AHGB's multifactorial etiology may improve treatment strategies.
- Treatment approaches range from conservative management to surgical intervention.
Abstract:
Acute hydrops of the gallbladder (AHGB) is a rare paediatric disease being diagnosed with increased frequency due to its association with other illnesses and the availability of ultrasonography. The symptoms and signs of AHGB include abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal mass and/or tenderness. As these clinical features mimic the more common surgical conditions such as acute appendicitis, intussusception and volvulus, some cases are still diagnosed only at laparotomy. Diagnosis is established by ultrasonography of the abdomen demonstrating normal biliary ducts and a distended gallbladder without calculi or congenital malformation. The aetiology of acute hydrops of the gallbladder is unknown but may be multifactorial. Treatment varies from non-operative management to surgical intervention.