Gallstone disease in children

Semin Pediatr Surg. 2012 Aug;21(3):255-65. doi: 10.1053/j.sempedsurg.2012.05.008.

Abstract

Gallstone disease in children is evolving, and for the previous 3 decades, the frequency for surgery has increased greatly. This is in part because of improved diagnostic modalities, but also changing pathology, an increased awareness of emerging comorbidities, such as childhood obesity, and other associated risk factors. This article outlines the pathophysiology, genetics, and predisposing factors for developing gallstones and includes a review of the literature on the current and more novel medical and surgical techniques to treat this interesting disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biliary Dyskinesia / complications
  • Child
  • Cholagogues and Choleretics / therapeutic use
  • Cholecystectomy
  • Gallstones* / diagnosis
  • Gallstones* / etiology
  • Gallstones* / physiopathology
  • Gallstones* / therapy
  • Genetic Markers
  • Humans
  • Lithotripsy
  • Obesity / complications
  • Postcholecystectomy Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Risk Factors
  • Ursodeoxycholic Acid / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Cholagogues and Choleretics
  • Genetic Markers
  • Ursodeoxycholic Acid