Pancreatitis in Children

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2021 Dec;68(6):1273-1291. doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2021.07.012.

Abstract

Pediatric pancreatitis describes a spectrum covering acute pancreatitis, acute recurrent pancreatitis, and chronic pancreatitis, each with varying clinical manifestations and risk factors requiring a tailored diagnostic approach. We emphasize management strategies based on age, risk factors, recurrence, and complications. A discussion of the role of therapeutic endoscopy is reviewed and highlights the growing role of endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in children with pancreatitis. Particular diagnostic challenges in autoimmune pancreatitis are reviewed with an emphasis on differentiating this entity from alternate pancreaticobiliary pathologies. Finally, we explore a multidisciplinary approach to acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis.

Keywords: Acute recurrent; Exocrine insufficiency; Pediatric pancreatitis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease / therapy
  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Autoimmune Pancreatitis / diagnosis
  • Autoimmune Pancreatitis / therapy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / methods
  • Endoscopy / methods
  • Fluid Therapy / methods
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Malnutrition / epidemiology
  • Nutrition Therapy / methods
  • Pain Management / methods
  • Pancreatitis / diagnosis*
  • Pancreatitis / epidemiology
  • Pancreatitis / therapy*
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic / diagnosis
  • Pancreatitis, Chronic / therapy
  • Recurrence
  • Risk Factors