Skip to main content

Cholelithiasis (Gallstones), Pediatric

Karen A. Queliza, MD, Eric H. Chiou, MD and Kristin L. Van Buren, MD, MEd Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Cholelithiasis is defined by the presence of cholesterol or pigmented stones in the gallbladder. Risk factors in children include obesity, hemolytic disease, cystic fibrosis (CF), Cr...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Gallstones in children are most commonly asymptomatic (“silent,” up to 50%). Silent gallstones present coincidentally on abdominal ultrasounds of infants and young children.

  • When sympt...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Asymptomatic gallstones should only be observed.

  • Gallstones should be removed in children who are dependent on TPN and in patients with short bowel syndrome, pseudo-obstructio...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Patient Monitoring

  • Asymptomatic patients: Monitor for onset of symptoms; no use for repeat imaging or labs unless symptomatic

  • Symptomatic patients: Consider cholecy...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Bogue CO, Murphy AJ, Gerstle JT, et al. Risk factors, complications, and outcomes of gallstones in children: a single-center review. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr.  2010;50(3):3...

CODES

ICD9

  • 574.2 Calculus of gallbladder without mention of cholecystitis, without mention of obstruction

  • 574.21 Calculus of gallbladder without mention of cholecystitis, with obstruction

  • 574 Calculus of...

FAQ

  • Q: Does my child with CF have a greater risk for gallstones?

  • A: Yes. Children with CF may have more frequent development of gallstones than children without CF. Reports of gallstones while on UDCA ...

Subscribe to Access Full Content

Sign Up for a 10-Day Free Trial

Sign up for a 10-day FREE Trial now and receive full access to all content.

 
×