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Published on: October 14, 2022
Lumbar disc herniation in young children
1Department of Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon. rh00@aub.edu.lb
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|August 8, 2009
Summary
Lumbar disc herniation in children is rare and often delayed in diagnosis. Early recognition through careful history, examination, and imaging is crucial for timely intervention and favorable outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Lumbar disc herniation is uncommon in young children.
- Diagnosis is often delayed due to rarity and difficulty in history taking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review patient presentation, physical examination, differential diagnosis, imaging, and treatment of lumbar disc herniation in young children.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of major databases for studies on pediatric lumbar disc herniation.
Main Results:
- Delayed diagnosis is common; consider lumbar disc herniation in children with back pain/radiculopathy, especially post-trauma.
- Physical examination and imaging (MRI, radiographs) are key for diagnosis.
- Management is conservative initially, with early surgery indicated for neurological deficits, leading to favorable outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Increased awareness aids pediatricians in early diagnosis and intervention.
- Prompt management, conservative or surgical, improves patient outcomes.
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