Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2025

A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn
Published on: April 7, 2023
An Unusual Diagnosis for an Infant Presenting with Olive-Shaped Abdominal Mass
Ghada Maher Abdulaziz1, Khalid Maher Mohamed2, Ayat Hassan Zilai1
1Pediatric Emergency Department, King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Insights
A palpable olive mass in infants, typically suggesting hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, can also indicate a congenital duodenal web. This rare presentation highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnostic imaging for proximal bowel obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- A palpable epigastric olive mass is a classic sign of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) in infants.
- Infants presenting with projectile, bilious emesis require prompt evaluation for proximal gastrointestinal obstruction.
- Congenital duodenal webs (CDW) are rare causes of neonatal bowel obstruction.
Abstract:
A 3-month-old male infant was bought to the emergency department with almost 3 weeks of projectile, bilious emesis after each feed. On presentation, he was cachectic and severely dehydrated and had a palpable olive in the epigastric region. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis was excluded by abdominal ultrasound. The barium meal demonstrated a massively distended stomach, absence of distal gas, and triple bubble sign. Given the radiological findings, the patient underwent an emergency exploratory laparotomy and a congenital duodenal web (CDW) was discovered. While the clinical picture suggested the diagnosis of HPS, barium meal eventually revealed congenital duodenal web. To our knowledge, no other cases of palpable olive mass as the presenting sign of proximal bowel obstruction have been published.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Assessment of the Abdomen III: Palpation
Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection....
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...

