Clinical features of gallstone disease in children of different age groups

Early diagnosis of gallstones in children presents certain challenges for pediatricians. The purpose of the study. Identification of the clinical features of gallstone disease in children of different ages. Materials and methods. The study involved 71 children diagnosed with gallstone disease conditions between the ages of 0 and 18. The participants were divided into three groups based on their clinical presentation: 38 had an asymptomatic form, 20 had dyspeptic symptoms, and 13 had pain. All participants underwent a series of lab and imaging tests. Tre results of the study. A reliable relationship was found between sex and age and the clinical presentation of gallstone disease. Dyspeptic symptoms were found in both sexes in younger children and were often accompanied by pancreatic abnormalities and Helicobacter pylori infection. Painful symptoms were more common in adolescent girls and were characterized by significant changes in the esophagus, including erosive esophagitis. The asymptomatic form of gallstone disease is common in male adolescents and is associated with irregularities in the shape of the gallbladder. Conclusion. The findings emphasize the significance of considering gender and age when assessing the clinical course of gallstone disease in children, and they confirm the necessity for personalized monitoring and diagnosis.

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