Category Gastrointestinal

Epiploic Appendagitis

Epiploic Appendicitis in Children

Abdominal pain is a challenging complaint. We have to discern between the critical abdominal conditions (ex, Appendicitis, Volvulus, Pancreatitis) from the less concerning causes (ex, CRAP, Constipation, Gastroenteritis). We also have to consider the causes that are not in the…

Cecal Volvulus in Children

Cecal Volvulus in Children

Abdominal Pain is a common complaint in children and may be due to a wide variety of conditions, both severe and benign (ex, Appendicitis, Strep Throat, Constipation, and Chronic Recurrent Abdominal Pain). It really can test our clinical skills. Is…

Loperamide Abuse and Overuse

Loperamide Abuse

There are many conditions to consider when dealing with a patient who presents with altered mental status. Is there a significant intracranial pathology (ex, AVM, Trauma)? Is there a serious bacterial infection? Is there a terrible abdominal catastrophe (ex, Intussusception)?…

Duodenal Hematoma

Pediatric Duodenal Hematoma

Abdominal trauma in children should garner an appropriate amount of respect and concern. The child’s abdominal wall, unfortunately, is not as protective of the internal structures compared to adults’ abdominal wall. Additionally, signs of trauma can be minimal or nonexistent.…

Failure to Thrive

Failure to Thrive

Children have very few responsibilities and even fewer jobs (just ask my kids). The one job young children have is growing. We have discussed some Growth and Development topics previously (ex, Milestones, Infant Formula, Growth Estimates). Occasionally, that single job…

Acholic Stool

Acholic Stool, Pale Stool

There are many interesting complaints that we encounter in the Emergency Department. Many make you scratch your head (how did they get that FB in the Ear?) and others will challenge you (how do I get this fish hook out…

Food Impaction

Esophageal Food Impaction

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of the year in the USA. We take time out of our busy schedules to stop and express our true gratitude for what is more important in our lives. Oh, yes… and we overindulge and…