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Black pigment stone in a male child aged two years and seven months
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|August 1, 1978
Insights
A rare case of gallstones (cholelithiasis) was found in a young boy. Analysis revealed a unique polybilirubinate stone, offering insights into pediatric lithiasis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Biochemistry
- Mineralogy
Background:
- Cholelithiasis, or gallstones, is uncommon in young children.
- Biliary colic is a common symptom of gallstone disease.
Observation:
- A two-year-old boy presented with symptoms of biliary colic.
- Surgical removal of the gallstone (cholecystectomy) was performed.
Findings:
- The gallstone was identified as a polybilirubinate stone.
- Composition analysis revealed calcium, carbonate, phosphate, sulfur, sodium, and magnesium.
- Trace elements including chlorine, aluminum, copper, nickel, and manganese were also detected.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of gallstone formation in very young children.
- The stone's unique composition provides data for understanding pediatric gallstone etiology.
- Further research into the factors contributing to polybilirubinate stone formation in children is warranted.
Abstract:
A case of cholelithiasis is reported occurring in a boy aged two years and seven months. The patient presented with biliary colic, and cholecystectomy was performed. Detailed analysis of the stone, including electron-probe studies, showed it to be an example of a polybilirubinate stone, containing also calcium, carbonate, and phosphate, with some sulphur, sodium, and magnesium. There were also traces of chlorine, aluminium, copper, nickel, and manganese.