Ultrasound evaluation of infantile vomiting: what a general radiologist should be aware of

Ilianna Tsetsou, Nektarios Spanomanolis, Hippocrates Moschouris, Marina Papadaki

Abstract


Vomiting in infancy is often a diagnostic challenge. A variety of diseases can manifest with vomiting. Gastrointestinal tract disorders, both congenital and acquired, as well as metabolic, neurological, and inflammatory causes may all present with vomiting. Early diagnosis is of utmost importance, in order to rule out possible life-threatening conditions. Imaging plays an important role in the evaluation of an infant who vomits. Ultrasonography is a safe, easy to perform, and radiation-free imaging modality that allows the radiologist to accurately evaluate the gastrointestinal tract, as well as the abdominal organs. Moreover, in more experienced hands, it allows visualization of the infantile brain in suspected neurological causes.


Keywords


infant; vomiting; ultrasonography; intestinal obstruction; radiology

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.36162/hjr.v7i2.462

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