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Choledochal Cyst in Children

Congenital cystic dilatation of the bile ducts; carries a risk of cholangitis, pancreatitis and malignancy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Choledochal Cyst in Children?

Choledochal cyst is an anomaly characterized by congenital cystic dilatation of the extrahepatic or intrahepatic bile ducts. According to the Todani classification there are 5 main subtypes ranging from Type I to V; Type I is the most common.

In children the classic triad (jaundice, abdominal pain, palpable mass) may be seen, but findings are more atypical in adults. Antenatal ultrasonography increasingly enables prenatal diagnosis as well.

Diagnosis uses ultrasonography, MRCP, ERCP and biliary scintigraphy. Total cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy are the gold standard treatment. Without surgery, the risk of cholangitis, biliary stones, pancreatitis and cholangiocarcinoma is high.

Symptoms

Intermittent jaundice
Right upper quadrant pain
Palpable abdominal mass
Nausea and vomiting
Fever (cholangitis)
Acholic stool
Pancreatitis attacks

Risk Factors

Female sex
Asian ethnicity
Pancreaticobiliary maljunction (long common channel)
Family history of congenital anomaly
Cystic structure detected on antenatal ultrasonography
Caroli disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a child has recurrent jaundice attacks
  • When right upper quadrant pain and a mass are felt
  • Findings of fever and cholangitis
  • When cystic dilatation is detected on antenatal ultrasonography
  • When pancreatitis attacks recur

Treatment Methods

01
Ultrasonography and MRCP
02
Anatomic evaluation by Todani classification
03
Total cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy
04
Preoperative cholangitis treatment (antibiotic)
05
Postoperative long-term follow-up
06
Malignancy surveillance

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.