EUS in pediatric patients

Tan Attila1, Douglas G Adler, Kristen Hilden

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, USA.

Insights

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) are safe and effective in diagnosing pediatric gastrointestinal, pancreatobiliary, and mediastinal diseases. This study highlights their significant clinical utility in young patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Limited data exists on the application and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in pediatric populations.
  • Pediatric gastrointestinal, pancreatobiliary, and mediastinal diseases often present diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the indications, feasibility, safety, and clinical utility of EUS in managing pediatric GI, pancreatobiliary, and mediastinal conditions.
  • To assess the diagnostic yield of EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) in children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 40 EUS procedures performed in 38 children (mean age 13.5 years) across two tertiary referral centers.
  • Review of indications, procedural success, diagnostic outcomes, and complications.

Main Results:

  • EUS indications included pancreatobiliary (pancreatitis, masses), gastric (lesions), and mediastinal (masses/nodes) evaluations.
  • EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) was performed in 12 cases (30%), achieving a 75% diagnostic rate.
  • The procedures were successful in all patients with no reported complications.

Conclusions:

  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS-FNA are safe and feasible diagnostic tools in pediatric patients.
  • EUS has a significant impact on the clinical management of diverse pediatric diseases.
  • Further research can expand the role of EUS in pediatric care.
Abstract

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