Cholelithiasis or gallstone disease, refers to the formation of stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts. Though it is much rarer in children than in adults, it can still develop in pediatric patients due to various underlying factors. Therefore, it should always be considered in children presenting with abdominal pain.

Gallstone disease in children is uncommon compared to adults. However, it may occur in children with risk factors such as obesity, certain genetic disorders, or biliary tract anomalies.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of gallstone disease in children include:

• Abdominal pain and fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Loss of appetite
• Severe abdominal pain after meals

Pain localized to the right upper or central part of the abdomen is particularly suggestive of gallstones.

Children with these symptoms should be promptly evaluated by a pediatric surgeon to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment

If left untreated, gallstones can lead to infection of the gallbladder and bile ducts, perforation of the gallbladder, and biliary obstruction, all of which are potentially life-threatening conditions. These complications not only endanger the child’s life but also complicate treatment and lengthen recovery time.

The first step in treatment should always be lifestyle modifications. Although gallstones larger than 1 centimeter generally cannot be treated with diet or medication, smaller stones may respond well to a low-fat, healthy diet and medication.

However, for stones larger than 1 centimeter, surgical treatment is necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of complications and shorten recovery time. Surgery should always be performed using laparoscopic (minimally invasive) techniques at an experienced center. Open surgery is associated with longer recovery times, higher complication rates, and less favorable cosmetic results.

After laparoscopic surgery, most patients are able to return home the next day and quickly resume daily activities.

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