Gallbladder perforation: An uncommon cause of peritonitis in a child

Int J Surg Case Rep. 2022 Nov:100:107765. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2022.107765. Epub 2022 Oct 22.

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Gallbladder perforations are infrequently encountered in the pediatric group but can be a cause of peritonitis with significant morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and managed promptly.

Case presentation: We present a case of a 10-year-old female who presented with peritonitis due to a perforated gallbladder diagnosed by CT-scan. She was managed surgically successfully.

Clinical discussion: Gallbladder perforation due to cholecystitis is usually seen in the elderly population but is uncommon among the pediatric population. Mortality rate can be as high as 26 % hence early diagnosis is vital. Management is mostly surgical as seen in the index case.

Conclusion: Clinicians should keep gallbladder perforation in mind as a differential diagnosis of acute abdomen in children although uncommon.

Keywords: Acute cholecystitis; Biliary peritonitis; Gallbladder perforation; Pediatrics.

Publication types

  • Case Reports