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Biliary stones: an atypical cause of abdominal pain in paediatric age group

Amber Mehmood1, M Arif Mateen Khan

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
|March 9, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric cholelithiasis, or gallstones in children, is an under-diagnosed cause of abdominal pain. This study identified 32 pediatric patients, highlighting the need for surgical intervention in symptomatic cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Hepatobiliary Surgery
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Biliary stone disease in children is uncommon but can lead to significant morbidity.
  • Accurate diagnosis and timely management are crucial for favorable outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify pediatric patients with biliary stone disease.
  • To determine the etiology, clinical presentation, and management strategies.
  • To assess outcomes in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study of pediatric patients (<15 years) with ultrasonographically proven biliary stones.
  • Data collection spanned January 1988 to December 2008.
  • Analysis included risk factors, complications, management, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • 32 pediatric patients with biliary stones were identified.
  • The mean age at presentation was 8.25 years.
  • Cholecystectomy was performed in 16 patients.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric cholelithiasis is an atypical and potentially under-diagnosed cause of abdominal pain.
  • The true prevalence may be underestimated.
  • Symptomatic and complicated biliary lithiasis in children warrants appropriate surgical intervention.
Abstract

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