Case of biliary lithiasis in an infant

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pathology
• Neonatal Medicine
• Vascular Malformations

Background:

• Premature infants are susceptible to various complications.
• Giant hemangiomas can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
• Biliary lithiasis in infants is uncommon and warrants investigation.

Observation:

• A 3-month-old premature infant presented with massive hemorrhage.
• The hemorrhage originated from a giant hemangioma in the right thigh.
• The infant also had six dark-green-blackish faceted gallstones.

Findings:

• The gallstones were composed of biliary pigment.
• These calculi are likely a consequence of repeated inflammatory hemolytic episodes.
• The infant had an underlying immunodeficient condition.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for severe complications in premature infants with giant hemangiomas.
• It underscores the association between hemolytic episodes, immunodeficiency, and biliary pigment calculus formation.
• Further research into the pathogenesis of biliary lithiasis in immunocompromised infants is warranted.