Imaging diagnosis of right lower quadrant pain in children

Grace S Phillips1, Marguerite T Parisi, Felix S Chew

  • 1Department of Radiology, Seattle Children's Hospital, WA 98105, USA. grace.phillips@seattlechildrens.org

Insights

This review uses case studies and imaging to explore causes of right lower quadrant (RLQ) pain in children. Understanding these conditions aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for pediatric RLQ pain.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Imaging
  • Clinical Case Studies
  • Differential Diagnosis

Background:

  • Right lower quadrant (RLQ) pain is a common presenting complaint in pediatric emergency departments.
  • Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions and ensure timely treatment.
  • A wide spectrum of conditions can manifest as RLQ pain in children.

Observation:

  • This review presents clinical case examples of pediatric patients with RLQ pain.
  • Correlative imaging findings are discussed for each case.
  • The focus is on conditions commonly presenting with RLQ pain in pediatric populations.

Findings:

  • The article details various etiologies of RLQ pain, including but not limited to appendicitis, intussusception, and mesenteric adenitis.
  • Radiographic appearances associated with these conditions are illustrated.
  • Key imaging features that aid in differentiating these entities are highlighted.

Implications:

  • Enhanced understanding of the differential diagnosis for pediatric RLQ pain.
  • Improved ability to interpret imaging studies in the context of RLQ pain.
  • Guidance for clinicians in managing children presenting with RLQ pain.
Abstract

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