Pyloric Stenosis

OVERVIEW

Pyloric stenosis refers to a congenital disorder that is characterized by the narrowing of the opening of the stomach to the duodenum.

Source
Source
WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?

Initial Presentation:

  • Vomiting after feedings in a newborn.

Physical Exam:

Vital signs may reveal poor weigh gain.

General signs of dehydration:

  • Sunken in fontanel
  • Increased skin turgor

Abdominal exam:

  • Palpable olive shaped mass in right upper quadrant.

History Of Present Illness:

Type of vomiting: forceful/projective vomiting

Quality of vomitus: typically non-bilious/non-bloody

CLINICAL WORKUP

Serum studies may reveal the presence of hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis.

Abdominal ultrasound can be used to diagnose the pyloric stenosis.

Abdominal ultrasound showing pyloric stenosis (source)
Abdominal ultrasound showing pyloric stenosis (source)
TREATMENT

Supportive measures:

  • Intravenous rehydration

Surgical correction:

  • Pyloromyotomy is the treatment of choice. Surgery is often needed to correct this issue.
ARCHIVE OF STANDARDIZED EXAM QUESTIONS 

This archive compiles standardized exam questions that relate to this topic.

 

Page Updated: 11.06.2016