The unusual presentation of pancreatitis in infancy

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Sodium Taurocholate Induced Severe Acute Pancreatitis in C57BL/6 Mice
06:35

Sodium Taurocholate Induced Severe Acute Pancreatitis in C57BL/6 Mice

Published on: June 28, 2021

S Z Rubin, S H Ein

    Journal of Pediatric Surgery
    |April 1, 1979
    PubMed

    Insights

    Acute pancreatitis in infants presents as severe illness or ascites. Early diagnosis and treatment of infant pancreatitis lead to excellent outcomes and minimal recurrence.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Gastroenterology
    • Neonatal Medicine

    Background:

    • Acute pancreatitis is rare in infants, often presenting atypically.
    • Recognizing pancreatitis as a cause of ascites is crucial for diagnosis.

    Observation:

    • Two infant cases of acute pancreatitis are presented.
    • Infantile pancreatitis manifests either as part of a severe systemic illness or as ascites.

    Findings:

    • Prognosis for pancreatitis as part of severe illness depends on the underlying condition.
    • Identifying pancreatitis as the cause of ascites allows for life-saving treatment.
    • Surgical exploration and investigation of the biliary and pancreatic ducts are recommended for suspected idiopathic cases.

    Implications:

    • Early suspicion and diagnosis of infantile pancreatitis are vital for timely intervention.
    • Prompt treatment, including pseudocyst drainage if present, improves survival rates.
    • With appropriate management, the prognosis for infantile pancreatitis is excellent, with low recurrence rates.

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