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Rofo 2024; 196(05): 451-462
DOI: 10.1055/a-2193-0205
Review

Acute abdomen in pediatric radiology

Article in several languages: English | deutsch
Nina Lochbühler
  Department of Pediatric Radiology Olgahospital, Klinikum Stuttgart Olgahospital Frauenklinik, Stuttgart, Germany
,
Petra Bölle
  Department of Pediatric Radiology Olgahospital, Klinikum Stuttgart Olgahospital Frauenklinik, Stuttgart, Germany
,
Peter Müller-Abt
  Department of Pediatric Radiology Olgahospital, Klinikum Stuttgart Olgahospital Frauenklinik, Stuttgart, Germany
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Abstract

Background Imaging is a common part of the workup for acute abdomen in childhood and adolescence. Rapid diagnosis is crucial for adequate therapy, especially in young children.

Method This review is intended to provide an overview of the typical causes of acute abdomen in children and adolescents and is specifically aimed at radiologists who do not regularly work in pediatric radiology.

Results and Conclusion Age-specific peculiarities make a division into three age groups useful: Newborns, infants and toddlers, and schoolchildren. Possible causes of acute abdomen in children range from congenital lesions, particularly in newborns, to entities well known in adult radiology, more commonly in school-aged children. Since younger children have a higher sensitivity to radiation and often a limited ability to cooperate, sonography and conventional X-ray are the primary imaging modalities used. Decisive advantages of sonography, especially in younger children, include its widespread availability, the lack of need for sedation, and the possibility of bedside examination. Supplementary cross-sectional imaging, usually MRI, is reserved for special clinical questions. Close interdisciplinary cooperation between attending clinicians and radiologists is essential for efficient diagnostics in this patient group.

Key points: 

  • Age-specific features must be observed

  • Sonography and radiography are the most important modalities

  • Both congenital and acquired pathologies play a role

  • Good interdisciplinary cooperation is essential in this patient group

Citation Format

  • Lochbühler N, Bölle P, Müller-Abt P. Acute abdomen in pediatric radiology. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; 196: 451 – 462

Key words

volvulus - pediatric - acute abdomen - appendicitis - ovary - newborn


Publication History

Article published online:
22 December 2023

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