[Primary peptic ulcer in childhood: apropos of 20 cases studied using digestive fiberendoscopy]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Digestive Endoscopy
• Peptic Ulcer Disease

Background:

• Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a significant gastrointestinal condition in children.
• Diagnosis in pediatric patients can be challenging, often leading to delayed treatment.
• Understanding the clinical presentation and diagnostic accuracy is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical characteristics, diagnostic methods, and treatment outcomes of primary peptic ulcer disease in children.
• To evaluate the efficacy of diagnostic tools, such as digestive fiberendoscopy and radiological studies.
• To identify common symptoms, complications, and factors influencing the time to diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 20 children diagnosed with primary peptic ulcer disease.
• Diagnosis confirmed via digestive fiberendoscopy, identifying duodenal and gastric ulcers.
• Analysis of presenting symptoms, family history, diagnostic timelines, radiological findings, and treatment responses.

Main Results:

• The study included 20 children (mean age 9.7 years), with 18 duodenal and 2 gastric ulcers identified.
• Abdominal pain was the most frequent symptom; gastrointestinal bleeding was the sole complication.
• Diagnosis was delayed beyond six months in 60% of cases; radiological studies showed a 50% false-negative rate.
• All patients responded satisfactorily to treatment, with no requirement for surgical intervention.

Conclusions:

• Primary peptic ulcer disease in children presents with abdominal pain and can be effectively managed non-surgically.
• Digestive fiberendoscopy is a reliable diagnostic tool, while radiological studies may yield false negatives.
• Timely diagnosis is critical, as a significant proportion of pediatric PUD cases experience diagnostic delays.