[Biliary lithiasis in childhood: an analysis of 3 cases]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Hepatobiliary Surgery

Background:

• Gallbladder stones (cholelithiasis) are uncommon in children.
• Understanding pediatric gallstone etiology is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• Three pediatric cases of gallbladder stones (ages 9-13) were identified.
• Patients presented with clinical symptoms including fat intolerance.
• One patient was initially misdiagnosed with acute appendicitis.

Findings:

• Gallstones were primarily composed of cholesterol with minimal bilirubin.
• No hereditary hematological or biochemical conditions were found in parents.
• The common bile duct remained unobstructed in all affected children.

Implications:

• Highlights the occurrence of cholesterol gallstones in pediatric patients without apparent hereditary predisposition.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering gallbladder pathology in children with unexplained abdominal pain and fat intolerance.
• Suggests that pediatric gallstones may present atypically, necessitating a broad differential diagnosis.