Gallbladder Disease in Pediatrics and Pregnancy

What is the primary type of gallstone found in children and adolescents with underlying conditions?

How much has the cholecystectomy rate increased in the pediatric population for cholesterol gallstones?

What is a common clinical manifestation of gallbladder disease during pregnancy?

What is a significant outcome of performing gallbladder surgery during pregnancy compared to waiting until after delivery?

What is a common symptom of gallbladder disease in older adults?

What concern is raised regarding older adults undergoing cholecystectomy?

What is recommended for treating gallbladder stones in older adults?

What might be correlated with the incidence of biliary sludge and gallstones in postpartum women?

Gallbladder Disease in Children and Adolescents

Gallbladder disease in children and adolescents was previously almost always found in children with underlying conditions such as sickle cell disease or thalassemia major.
These conditions caused hemolysis, releasing bilirubin.
The rate of gallbladder disease related is stable at 15%.
Due to rising pediatric obesity rates, the most common type of gallstone in children is now cholesterol.
Reports indicate an increase of over 200% in cholecystectomy for cholesterol gallstones in children.

Gallbladder Disease in Pregnant Women

The incidence of gallbladder disease increases during pregnancy.
Symptoms during pregnancy can include pain, nausea, vomiting, intense itching, jaundice, and dark-colored urine.
Gallbladder disease is a common reason for nonobstetrical surgery during pregnancy.
Evidence suggests better maternal-fetal outcomes for women who undergo surgery during pregnancy compared to waiting until after childbirth.
Gallbladder disease is a common cause for hospitalization within the first year after childbirth, and the incidence of biliary sludge and gallstones is linked to the number of pregnancies and age at pregnancy.

Gallbladder Disease in Older Adults

Gallbladder disease in older adults may present with vague symptoms, such as general malaise or lack of appetite.
Concern exists regarding older adults undergoing surgery for cholecystitis.
A study on elderly patients who underwent cholecystectomy found that those 70 years or older had an increased ICU admission rate and hospital mortality rate compared to those younger than 70 years.
Researchers recommend exploring nonoperative methods for treating gallbladder stones in older adults.

This quiz explores the incidence and implications of gallbladder disease in both children and adolescents as well as pregnant women. It highlights the connection to underlying health conditions and the impact of rising obesity rates. Additionally, it discusses symptoms and surgical considerations during pregnancy.