Gallbladder perforation: An uncommon cause of peritonitis in a child

Mujaheed Suleman1, Adnan Sadiq2, Patrick Amsi3

  • 1Department of General Surgery, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, P O Box 3010, Moshi, Tanzania.

Insights

Pediatric gallbladder perforation, though rare, can cause peritonitis. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for successful management and improved outcomes in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Gallbladder perforation is a rare but serious condition in children.
  • It can lead to peritonitis, significant morbidity, and mortality if not diagnosed promptly.

Observation:

  • A 10-year-old female presented with peritonitis secondary to a perforated gallbladder.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan was instrumental in diagnosing the condition.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent successful surgical management for the perforated gallbladder.
  • Gallbladder perforation is more common in the elderly but uncommon in pediatric patients.

Implications:

  • Clinicians must consider gallbladder perforation in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen in children.
  • Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are vital for reducing mortality rates, which can be as high as 26%.
Abstract

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