Classification of Acute Pancreatitis in the Pediatric Population: Clinical Report From the NASPGHAN Pancreas Committee

A Practical Approach to Management of Acute Pancreatitis: Similarities and Dissimilarities of Disease in Children and Adults

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and it substantially contributes to the healthcare burden of gastrointestinal disease and quality of life in children and adults. AP across the lifespan is characterized by similarities and differences in epidemiology, diagnostic modality, etiologies, management, adverse events, long-term outcomes, and areas in greatest need of research. In this review, we touch on each of these shared and distinctive features of AP in children and adults, with an emphasis on recent advances in the conceptualization and management of AP.

Acute Pancreatitis in Children: The Clinical Profile at a Tertiary Hospital

Objectives The clinical course and progression of acute pancreatitis are poorly understood to date, necessitating more studies of clinical profiles during the disease. Moreover, understanding the etiologies and clinical presentations of acute pancreatitis (AP) in children can contribute to early diagnosis and, hence, earlier interventions. Therefore, this article aims to study the clinical profiles of children with acute pancreatitis (AP) in relation to complications and other variables. Study design We retrospectively studied 56 patients who presented with AP to the pediatric department in Salmaniya Medical Complex between January 2006 and December 2017. Cases of chronic pancreatitis and ages above 12 years were excluded. The data concerned demographics, etiology, clinical data, hospital course, and outcomes. Results The study included 56 patients aged a mean of 8.46 years (male:female - 33:23). The average hospital stay was 7.68 days. Patients received parenteral feeds a mean of 2.77 days. All patients had an ultrasound, nine required CT scans (16.1%), and five MRIs (8.9%). There were 18 local complications (32.1%): pseudocysts (n=3, 5.36%), cholangitis (n=2, 3.6%), and edema (n=13, 23.2%). There were 23 intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (41.1%). No mortalities occurred but there were six recurrences (10.7%). Symptoms of abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and nausea occurred in 100%, 57.1%, 35.7%, and 23.2% of patients, respectively. Etiologies were 41.1% biliary, 23.2% idiopathic, 19.6% traumatic, and 8.93% drug-induced. Leukocytes were elevated in 20 patients (35.7%), c-reactive protein (CRP) in five (8.93%), serum amylase in 45 (80.4%), and urinary amylase in all 56 patients (100%). Conclusion Most pediatric AP cases were attributed to biliary causes followed by trauma. Age was significantly correlated with complication rates (P=0.013). Abdominal pain was a more common symptom than vomiting. Leukocytosis was associated with ICU admissions. There was no significant relation between c-reactive protein, serum amylase, or urinary amylase, and complications or ICU admissions. Pediatric AP was self-limiting and there were no fatalities.

Risk factors of recurrent acute pancreatitis after conservative treatment in pediatric population: a single-center study

Background

Although complete resolution and recovery occurs in most children with an initial attack of acute pancreatitis (AP), a subset of children may progress to recurrent AP (RAP). RAP has serious effects to the individual and the socioeconomic burden. The aim of this project was to identify the independent risk factors for pediatric RAP so as to provide evidence for its prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of children discharged from Tianjin Children’s Hospital from June 2017 to January 2020 was performed. Demographic and clinical variables, treatment strategies, clinical course and outcomes were collected. Independent risk factors of RAP were identified using the logistic regression model.

Results

Of the total 96 enrolled children, 30 (31.3%) developed RAP during the follow-up period. The majority (27/30, 90%) of the children with AP developed RAP within 6 months of their first AP attack. The presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) [odds ratio (OR)=6.652, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.989 to 22.247], fasting time (OR=1.267, 95% CI 1.104 to 1.583), whether meet all three AP diagnostic criteria (OR=7.438, 95% CI 1.346 to 41.103) and abnormal amylase/lipase value on the seventh day of hospitalization (OR=3.601, 95% CI 0.972 to 13.342) were independent risk factors of RAP in children.

Conclusions

Most children who developed RAP had progressed within 6 months after their first episode of AP. RAP was more common in children who met all three AP diagnostic criteria at initial attack and in children with SIRS, long fasting time and abnormal amylase/lipase value on the seventh day of hospitalization.

Current State of Imaging of Pediatric Pancreatitis: AJR Expert Panel Narrative Review

Pancreatitis is as common in children as it is in adults, though causes and accepted imaging strategies differ in children. In this narrative review we discuss the epidemiology of childhood pancreatitis and key imaging features for pediatric acute, acute recurrent, and chronic pancreatitis. We rely heavily on our collective experience in discussing advantages and disadvantages of different imaging modalities; practical tips for optimization of ultrasound, CT, and MRI with MRCP in children; and image interpretation pearls. Challenges and considerations unique to imaging pediatric pancreatitis are discussed, including timing of imaging, role of secretin-enhanced MRCP, utility of urgent MRI, severity prediction, autoimmune pancreatitis, and best methods for serial imaging. We suggest a methodical approach to pancreatic MRI interpretation in children and have included a sample structured report, and we provide consensus statements according to our experience imaging children with pancreatitis.

Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis: Changes in Management and Disease Outcomes Over 16 Years

OBJECTIVE

To examine the changes over time of pediatric acute pancreatitis (AP) severity, management, and disease outcomes at our academic tertiary center.

METHODS

We reviewed 223 pediatric AP admissions (2002-2018) and used a time-to-event regression model to study changes over time. Disease outcomes were analyzed using a subgroup of 89 patients in whom only the AP event determined length of hospital stay and duration of opioid use.

RESULTS

There was an increase in mild, but not severe, AP episodes over the examined period. June 2014 was identified as a single cutoff point for change in AP management and disease outcomes independent of each other and of disease severity. Timing of initiating enteral nutrition decreased from 5 to 1.6 days (P < 0.0001) in the entire cohort and from 4.1 to 1.8 days in the subgroup (P = 0.0001) after June 2014. Length of hospitalization decreased from 6 to 3.3 days (P = 0.0008) and days of opioid use from 4.1 to 1.3 (P = 0.002) after June 2014.

CONCLUSIONS

Timing of initiating enteral nutrition has significantly reduced at our center after June 2014. In parallel, we observed a significant improvement in disease outcomes.

Etiology of Acute Recurrent Pancreatitis in Vietnamese Children: an Initial Report

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological characteristics of acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) among children who were admitted at Children’s Hospital 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from May 2014 to May 2019.

Methods:

Authors presented Case series study.

Results:

A total of 33 cases met the criteria for study inclusion. The mean age of first onset 7.3 ± 4.4 years (range, 1.4–15 years), the male to female ratio was 18:15 (1.2:1). The median number of ARP admissions per patient was 3 (range, 2–14), and the median time between ARP-related hospitalization was 168 days (range, 82–240 days). The chief complaint upon hospitalization was abdominal pain, accounting for 96.9% of cases, vomiting in 87.9% of cases, and severe ARP was observed in 24% of cases. All patients underwent magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans. Genetic testing was performed in 14 of 33 cases, and 5 cases had at least 1 mutation, whereas 9 were negative. The most common etiology of ARP was biliary tract disease, in 17 cases (51.5%; 11 choledochal cysts, 6 gallstones), abnormalities of the pancreas were observed in 18.2% (abnormalities of pancreatic structures in 3 cases), hypertriglyceridemia and metabolic disease were observed in 6.1% of cases, and genetic mutations were identified in 15.2% of cases.

Conclusion:

ARP is not a rare disease, and ARP patients may be admitted to the hospital many times. The chief complaints resulting in hospitalization were abdominal pain and vomiting. The most common causes were biliary tract diseases (bile duct cysts in 33.3% and gallstones in 18.2% of cases), with abnormalities of the pancreatic structure identified in 9.1% of cases, and genetic mutations detected in 15.2% of patients.

Bilateral renal cortical necrosis in a child with acute pancreatitis

Bilateral renal cortical necrosis (RCN) as a cause of acute kidney injury is very rare in the pediatric population. Progression to end-stage renal disease is seen virtually in every patient with RCN. There are many causes for the occurrence of cortical necrosis in children, with severe pancreatitis being a rarity. In this report, we describe a child with severe acute pancreatitis complicated by bilateral RCN.

Acute pancreatitis in children hospitalized with COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Limited data exists on the association or prevalence of pancreatitis in children with COVID-19.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of pediatric patients admitted to a large health system in New York (Northwell Health System) from March 1, 2020-June 1, 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS

8159 pediatric patients were admitted to our healthcare system during the study period, of which 112 were diagnosed with COVID-19 (1.37%). Thirteen were diagnosed with pancreatitis for a point prevalence of 0.16% (13/8159) for all patients admitted. Of the thirteen patients admitted with pancreatitis, two patients were COVID-19 positive for a point prevalence of 1.8% (2/112) among COVID-19 patients compared to 0.14% (11/8047) in the non-COVID-19 population.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that pancreatitis can occur in pediatric patients with COVID-19 and may be more common in the COVID-19 population.

North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and the Society for Pediatric Radiology Joint Position Paper on Noninvasive Imaging of Pediatric Pancreatitis: Literature Summary and Recommendations

ABSTRACT

The reported incidence of pediatric pancreatitis is increasing. Noninvasive imaging, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), play important roles in the diagnosis, staging, follow-up, and management of pancreatitis in children. In this position paper, generated by members of the Pancreas Committee of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) and the Abdominal Imaging Committee of The Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR), we review the roles of noninvasive imaging in pediatric acute, acute recurrent, and chronic pancreatitis. We discuss available evidence related to noninvasive imaging, highlighting evidence specific to pediatric populations, and we make joint recommendations for use of noninvasive imaging. Further, we highlight the need for research to define the performance and role of noninvasive imaging in pediatric pancreatitis.

Increase in visceral adipose tissue and subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness in children with acute pancreatitis. A case-control study

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the development of acute pancreatitis in children and their body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) thickness.

METHOD

This was a case-control study carried out in a tertiary hospital between October and November 2019. The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was based on the presence of at least two of three criteria of the International Study Group of Pediatric Pancreatitis (INSPPIRE) guidelines. AC, VAT, and SAT measurements of patients and controls were performed by using a three-dimensional workstation (Aquarius 3D Workstation, TeraRecon Inc., San Mateo, Calif., USA) through cross sections of the L2 vertebra level after examining previous abdominal computerized tomography (CT) records.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients diagnosed with acute and acute recurrent pancreatitis who underwent abdominal CT were included in the study and 38 healthy, sex- and age-matched children formed the control group. There were no differences between the patients and healthy children in terms of age, sex and BMI-for-age z-scores. Besides, measurements of WC, SAT, and VAT thickness were found to be higher in the patient group (P=0.007, P=0.021, P=0.016, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In this study, WC, VAT, and SAT were found to be thicker in children with acute pancreatitis compared with healthy children without any difference in BMI. Further studies are needed to clarify whether adipose tissue thickness is an etiological cause or a secondary finding in patients with acute pancreatitis.

Paediatric pancreatic diseases

Paediatric pancreatic diseases are often under-recognised and may be associated with severe diseases and significant clinical consequences. In recent years, advances have been made in key areas, particularly with the contributions from international societies and study groups focused on paediatric pancreatic disease research. This review focuses on the two key manifestations of pancreatic disorders in childhood, pancreatitis and exocrine pancreatic dysfunction.

Effects of Prophylactic Antibiotics on Length of Stay and Total Costs for Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis: A Nationwide Database Study in Japan

OBJECTIVES

Acute pancreatitis (AP) guidelines for adult patients do not recommend routine prophylactic use of antibiotics because of no clinical merit on mortality, infectious complications, or length of stay. Although the mortality of pediatric AP is low, no studies have explored the rationale for antibiotic use in pediatric patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of early prophylactic antibiotics on length of stay and total costs in pediatric patients.

METHODS

Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database from 2010 to 2017, we used the stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting method using propensity scores to balance the background characteristics in the antibiotics group and the control group, and compared length of stay and total costs between the groups.

RESULTS

We found significant differences between the antibiotics group (n = 652) and the control group (n = 467) in length of stay (11 days vs 9 days; percent difference, 15.4%; 95% confidence interval, 5.0%-26.8%) and total costs (US $4085 vs US $3648; percent difference, 19.8%; 95% confidence interval, 8.0%-32.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic antibiotics were associated with longer length of stay and higher total costs. Our results do not support routine use of prophylactic antibiotics in pediatric AP populations.

Who's at Risk? A Prognostic Model for Severity Prediction in Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to validate and optimize a severity prediction model for acute pancreatitis (AP) and to examine blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level changes from admission as a severity predictor.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients from 2 hospitals were included for the validation model (Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters and Children's National Hospital). Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center data were used for analysis of BUN at 24 to 48 hours.

RESULTS

The validation cohort included 73 patients; 22 (30%) with either severe or moderately severe AP, combined into the all severe AP (SAP) group. Patients with SAP had higher BUN (P = 0.002) and lower albumin (P = 0.005). Admission BUN was confirmed as a significant predictor (P = 0.005) of SAP (area under the receiver operating characteristic [AUROC] 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60-0.86). Combining BUN (P = 0.005) and albumin (P = 0.004) resulted in better prediction for SAP (AUROC 0.83, 95% CI 0.72-0.94). A total of 176 AP patients were analyzed at 24-48 hours; 39 (22%) met criteria for SAP. Patients who developed SAP had a significantly higher BUN (P < 0.001) after 24 hours. Elevated BUN levels within 24 to 48 hours were independently predictive of developing SAP (AUROC: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.66-0.85). Patients who developed SAP had a significantly smaller percentage decrease in BUN from admission to 24 to 48 hours (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

We externally validated the prior model with admission BUN levels and further optimized it by incorporating albumin. We also found that persistent elevation of BUN is associated with development of SAP. Our model can be used to risk stratify patients with AP on admission and again at 24 to 48 hours.

Drug induced pancreatitis is the leading known cause of first attack acute pancreatitis in children

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Drug induced acute pancreatitis (DIAP) as one of the acute pancreatitis (AP) risks factors is a poorly understood entity. The aim of the current study was to compare the characteristics and course of DIAP cases in children presenting with a first attack of AP.

METHODS

Patients presenting with AP were included in a prospective database. We enrolled 165 AP patients that met criteria for inclusion. DIAP patients were included in that group if they were exposed to a drug known to be associated with AP and the rest were included in the non-drug induced-acute pancreatitis (non-DIAP) group.

RESULTS

DIAP was observed in 40/165 (24%) of cases, 24 cases had drug-induced as the sole risk factor, and 16 had DIAP with another risk factor(s). The two groups were similar in intravenous fluid and feeding managements, but ERCP was more commonly performed in the non- DIAP group, 14 (11%), vs 0% in the DIAP group, p = 0.02. Moderately severe [9 (23%) vs 11 (9%)] and severe AP [7 (18%) vs 6 (5%)] were more commonly associated with DIAP than non- DIAP, p = 0.001. DIAP was more commonly associated with ICU stay, 10 (25%), vs 12 (10%), p = 0.01, hospital stay was longer in DIAP median (IQR) of 6 (3.9-11) days vs 3.3 (2-5.7) days in non- DIAP, p = 0.001. The DIAP group had a significantly higher proportion of comorbidities (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

DIAP is a leading risk factor for a first attack of AP in children and is associated with increased morbidity and severity of the pancreatitis course. DIAP warrants further investigation in future studies.

Early Feeding in Acute Pancreatitis in Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Studies have increasingly challenged the traditional management of acute pancreatitis (AP) with bowel rest. However, these studies used a low-fat diet or transgastric feeding and only included adults. Aiming to generate higher-quality prospective pediatric data, we compared the traditional approach of fasting and intravenous fluids and early enteral feeding with standard diet or formula.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial of children (2-18 years) with mild-moderate AP. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to initial fasting and intravenous fluids or an immediate, unrestricted diet. Pain scores, blood measures, and cross-sectional imaging were recorded throughout admission and follow-up. The primary outcome was time to discharge, and secondary outcomes were clinical and biochemical resolution and local and systemic complication rates.

RESULTS

Of 33 patients (17 [52%] boys, mean age of 11.5 [±4.8] years), 18 (55%) were randomly assigned to early feeding and 15 (45%) were randomly assigned to initial fasting. We recorded the median (interquartile range [IQR]) time to discharge (2.6 [IQR 2.0 to 4.0] vs 2.9 [IQR 1.8 to 5.6]; P = .95), reduction in serum lipase levels by day 2 (58% [IQR 2% to 85%] vs 48% [IQR 3% to 71%]; P = .65), and readmission rates (1 of 18 [6%] vs 2 of 15 [13%]; P = .22) between the early feeding and fasting cohorts, respectively. Immediate or delayed complication rates did not differ. Patients randomly assigned to early feeding had weight gain of 1.3 kg (IQR 0.29 to 3.6) at follow-up, compared with weight loss of 0.8 kg (IQR -2.1 to 0.7) in fasted patients (P = .028).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first randomized controlled trial in pediatric AP. There was no difference between early commencement of a standard oral diet and initial fast in any of the major outcome measures.

Impact of Clinical, Laboratory and Fluid Therapy Variables on Hospital Length of Stay for Children with Acute Pancreatitis

PURPOSE

There have been many efforts to develop generalizable severity markers in children with acute pancreatitis (AP). Expert opinion panels have developed consensus guidelines on management but it is unclear if these are sufficient or valid. Our study aims to assess the effect of clinical and laboratory variables, in addition to treatment modality on hospital length of stay (LOS) as a proxy variable for severity in pediatric patients admitted with AP.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients between ages of 0-18 years, who were admitted with AP at 2 institutions between 2013-2018, John R. Oishei Children's Hospital (Buffalo, NY, USA) and Medical University of South Carolina Children's Hospital (Charleston, SC, USA). We constructed three linear regression models to analyze the effect of clinical signs of organ dysfunction, laboratory markers and fluid intake on hospital LOS.

RESULTS

Ninety-two patients were included in the study. The mean age was 12 years (range, 7.6-17.4 years), 55% were females, and median LOS was 3 days. The most frequent cause of AP was idiopathic. Our study showed that elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) on admission (p<0.005), tachycardia that lasted for ≥48 hours (p<0.001) and need for fluid resuscitation were associated with increase LOS. Total daily fluid intake above maintenance did not have a significant effect on the primary outcome (p=0.49).

CONCLUSION

Elevated serum BUN on admission, persistent tachycardia and need for fluid resuscitation were associated with increase LOS in pediatric AP. Daily total fluid intake above recommended maintenance did not reduce LOS.

Paediatric acute pancreatitis: Clinical profile and natural history of collections

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Acute Pancreatitis (AP) tends to have a benign course in children. However there is a paucity of information with respect to severity of AP in children, the categorization of collections viz., walled off necrosis (WON)& pseudocyst and their natural history & outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective medical record review of 187 children with pancreatitis diagnosed and managed at our centre was performed.

RESULTS

101 children (59% boys, Median age 9yrs) had AP of which 37.6%, 60.4% and 2% had mild, moderately severe and severe AP. 61.4%(62) had PFC at diagnosis; 34%(21) acute pancreatic fluid collections (APFC) and 66%(41) acute necrotic collections (ANC). 52.3%(11of21) of APFC evolved into pseudocysts & 68.2%(28of41) of ANC into WON's. Drainage was required in 31%(12of39) of persisting collections, more frequently in children with traumatic AP. Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) was done in 6 children and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided cystogastrostomy with placement of plastic or self expanding metal stents (SEMS) in 6 children.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderately severe AP is common in hospitalized children with AP with PFC developing in 61.4%, majority being APFC. 48% of APFC and 32% of ANC will resolve and the rest evolve into pseudocyst or WON. Spontaneous resolution is more likely in children with non -traumatic AP having pseudocysts rather than WON's.

Use of Lactated Ringers Solution Compared With Normal Saline Is Associated With Shorter Length of Stay in Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate lactated ringers (LR) versus normal saline (NS) in pediatric acute pancreatitis (AP).

METHODS

This retrospective study used Pediatric Health Information System database of primary AP patients, 2013 to 2017.

RESULTS

The study included 1581 first time AP patients with exclusive use of a single fluid (111 LR, 1470 NS) for the first 48 hours. The LR cohort had a significantly shorter length of stay (P < 0.001) compared with NS. A multivariable logistic regression analysis suggests use of NS in the first 48 hours (after controlling for total parenteral nutrition, operation, and infection during the admission) had a significantly increased likelihood of requiring a hospitalization for 4 days or more compared with the LR group (odds ratio, 3.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.95-5.62). The overall cost was significantly less in the LR group. There was no statistical difference observed in risk factors for AP, intensive care transfer, organ dysfunction, or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

This represents the first large data set analysis of LR versus NS in pediatric AP. The use of LR was associated with a shorter length of stay and reduced cost compared with NS. Future randomized trials will help determine the ideal fluid choice for pediatric AP.

Sensitivity of Biochemical and Imaging Findings for the Diagnosis of Acute Pancreatitis in Children

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic sensitivity of serum biomarkers and imaging in the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis in children.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional analysis of prospective registry data for children (age <21 years) whose first documented attack of acute pancreatitis occurred between March 2013 and October 2016 at a single-institution, tertiary care center. Main outcome was sensitivity of serum biomarkers and of imaging modalities, measured via descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

In total, 112 children met the criteria for acute pancreatitis; 57 (51%) were male with a median age of 13.4 years (IQR 9.3-15.8 years). Serum amylase and lipase levels were obtained in 85 (76%) and 112 (100%) patients, respectively. Imaging was performed in 98 (88%) patients, with abdominal ultrasound (US) performed in 84 (75%) and computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging performed in 46 (41%) patients. Fifty-three (47%) patients met all 3 diagnostic criteria (clinical, biochemical, and imaging) for acute pancreatitis. Laboratory testing had a 5.4% false-negative rate for acute pancreatitis. Serum lipase alone and amylase alone were 95% (95% CI 89%-98%) and 39% (95% CI 28%-50%) sensitive for acute pancreatitis, respectively. Imaging (any modality) was 61% sensitive (95% CI 51%-71%) for acute pancreatitis with a 34% false-negative rate. US alone was 52% (95% CI 41%-63%) sensitive for acute pancreatitis and computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging was 78% (95% CI 63%-89%) sensitive. Combinations of diagnostic criteria performed no better than laboratory testing alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of children coming to medical attention with their first documented occurrence of acute pancreatitis have characteristic symptoms. Serum lipase is highly sensitive for the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis, and serum amylase is moderately sensitive. Imaging, particularly US, is only moderately sensitive, and cross-sectional imaging provides greater sensitivity for diagnosing acute pancreatitis.

Meandering Main Pancreatic Duct in Association with Choledochal Cysts and Acute Pancreatitis in Pediatrics

Meandering main pancreatic duct (MMPD) is an uncommon anomaly of the main pancreatic duct characterized by an abnormal curvature at the pancreatic head region. This variant can be diagnosed on imaging, particularly magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). Although its clinical significance remains debatable, recent research suggests an association with recurrent acute pancreatitis. To our knowledge, no pediatric cases of acute or recurrent acute pancreatitis have been attributed to the presence of MMPD. In this article, we report on two patients. The first case is of a 15-year-old girl with MMPD discovered on investigation of idiopathic acute pancreatitis. The second case is of a 5-year-old boy who presented with his second episode of acute pancreatitis. In this patient, MRCP imaging revealed MMPD and type IVA choledochal cyst. With appropriate care, both patients experienced clinical improvement with resolution of abdominal pain. This article highlights MMPD as a distinct entity that should be considered in pediatric patients with recurrent attacks of acute pancreatitis. This report also describes the first association of MMPD with choledochal cysts. [Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(10):e412-e416.].

Pancreatitis in Children

Acute, acute recurrent, and chronic forms of pancreatitis have been increasingly diagnosed in children in the past 2 decades. Risk factors in the pediatric group are broad and appear to be strikingly different compared with the adult cohort. However, the disease burden and impact on quality of life are surprisingly similar in children and adults. This review summarizes the definitions, epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of pediatric pancreatitis, identifies features that are unique to the childhood-onset disease, identifies gaps, and proposes recommendations for future opportunities.

Thrombopoietin Contributes to Extreme Thrombocytosis After Pediatric Pancreatectomy With Islet Autotransplantation

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the role of thrombopoietin (TPO) production in extreme thrombocytosis that is often observed after pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (IAT) and the effectiveness of hydroxyurea in thrombocytosis management.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was performed for all patients who underwent pancreatectomy with IAT at our institution between April 1, 2015, and December 31, 2016. Data evaluated included demographics, platelet counts, TPO levels, and thrombocytosis management strategies.

RESULTS

Twelve total and 1 subtotal pancreatectomy with IAT cases were reviewed. All operations included splenectomy. No major surgical or thrombotic complications occurred. Thrombopoietin levels, normal preoperatively, rose significantly (median, 219 pg/mL) soon after surgery, peaking on median postoperative day 3. Platelet counts, also normal preoperatively, increased within a week of surgery, with 92% over 1000 K/μL (median peak platelet count, 1403 K/μL). Platelet counts and TPO levels dropped after hydroxyurea initiation in most patients.

CONCLUSIONS

After pancreatectomy with IAT, patients experienced marked TPO rise and subsequent thrombocytosis, and both decreased significantly after hydroxyurea initiation. These data suggest that TPO elevation and associated increased platelet production may be one driver of early extreme post-total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation thrombocytosis, and this process may be modulated by hydroxyurea.

Role of Diagnostic Endoscopic Ultrasound in Idiopathic Acute Pancreatitis and Acute Recurrent Pancreatitis in Children

OBJECTIVES

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive pancreatic imaging modality. We evaluated children with idiopathic acute pancreatitis (IAP) and acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) for changes of chronicity (Rosemont criteria) and biliary risk factors. Diagnostic yield of simultaneously performed transabdominal ultrasonography (TUS) was compared with EUS.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study. Patients underwent EUS and TUS after 2 months of pancreatitis attack.

RESULTS

Forty-five (18 IAP, 27 ARP) patients underwent EUS and TUS. Mean (standard deviation) age and weight were 9.1 (2.6) years and 32.66 (12.43) kg in IAP, whereas these were 12.2 (3.1) years and 44.84 (15.12) kg in ARP, respectively. Endoscopic ultrasound demonstrated morphological abnormality in 33.3% and 40.7% of IAP and ARP, respectively (P = 0.61), whereas 16.6% and 25.9% were abnormal in TUS. Endoscopic ultrasound showed unequivocal changes of chronicity (11.1% vs 0%) and risk factors only among ARP (25.9% vs 0%; P = 0.03) and demonstrated slightly higher odds ratio (95% confidence interval) as compared with TUS to detect abnormalities in both IAP (2.43 [0.49-14.17], P = 0.28) and ARP (1.94 [0.60-6.47], P = 0.26).

CONCLUSIONS

Applying EUS, changes of chronicity and risk factors were noted only in ARP. Endoscopic ultrasound performed better than TUS in detecting chronicity.

Validation of Lipase and Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome as Prognostic Indicators in Pediatric Acute Pancreatitis: A Retrospective Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is understudied in the pediatric population despite increasing incidence. Although many cases are mild and resolve with supportive care, severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a lack of pediatric-specific predictive tools to help stratify risk of SAP in children.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients with AP or recurrent AP at Cohen Children's Medical Center between 2011 and 2016 was performed. Lipase level and the presence of pediatric systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) on admission were examined as potential predictors of SAP and length of stay (LOS). A multivariate logistic regression or analysis of covariance was used to conduct the multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine pediatric patients met inclusion criteria. Approximately 37% (29/79) had SIRS on admission, 22% (17/79) developed SAP, and there were no mortalities. In both the univariate and multivariate models, SIRS was a predictor of SAP. Mean (SD) LOS for patients with SIRS compared with without SIRS was 9.6 ± 8.3 compared with 6.3 ± 6.9 days (P < 0.05). The mean LOS of patients with one or more comorbidity (48%, 38/79) was 10.0 ± 9.5 compared with 5.2 ± 4.0 days (P < 0.01) for those patients without any comorbidities. Only the presence of comorbidities predicted length of time spent nil per os (NPO; P = 0.0022). Patients with comorbidities stayed an average of 5.6 ± 7.6 days NPO, whereas those without comorbidities spent 2.8 ± 2.4 days NPO. Lipase was not predictive of SAP, LOS, or length of time spent NPO.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the use of SIRS as a simple screening tool on admission to identify children at risk for the development of SAP. The presence of any comorbidity was predictive of LOS and length of NPO in the multivariate model. This may reflect that comorbidities prolong pancreatitis or influence disposition planning.

Blood Urea Nitrogen Elevation Is a Marker for Pediatric Severe Acute Pancreatitis

OBJECTIVE

The natural course of patients who develop acute pancreatitis (AP) can range from mild to severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). The aim of this study was to evaluate for early predictors of developing SAP during the first episode of AP in a prospective pediatric cohort.

METHODS

Clinical data were prospectively collected and subsequently analyzed for pediatric patients presenting with their first episode of AP between March 2013 and January 2017 to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

RESULTS

A total of 118 patients were included in the analysis, and 22 (18.6%) developed SAP. Patients who developed SAP had significantly higher values of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (P = 0.007), magnesium (P = 0.04), glucose (P = 0.03), sodium (P = 0.03), and C-reactive protein (P = 0.02). A logistic regression model with BUN as a predictor of SAP was superior to any other combination of variables (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.75; 95% confidence interval, 0.61-0.89; sensitivity, 63%; specificity, 81%; positive predictive value, 43%; negative predictive value, 91%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study generated a predictive model using elevated BUN as a significant predictor of SAP. The findings are useful for early identification of pediatric patients at higher risk of developing SAP.

Pediatric ultrasonography of the pancreas: normal and abnormal findings

The pancreas is easily investigated in children thanks to the relative lack of fat tissue and the large left hepatic lobe with an optimal acoustic window. The use of high frequency, even linear transducers, usually results in detailed images of all pancreatic areas. A wide spectrum of pancreatic pathologic conditions can be identified and monitored at ultrasound although they are relatively uncommon during childhood compared to the adult. In this paper we briefly review the anatomy, technique, and sonographic aspects of normal and pathological pediatric pancreas.

Classification and Nutrition Management of Acute Pancreatitis in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

The aims of this retrospective cohort study were to classify the severity of patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with acute pancreatitis (AP) and to identify how many patients received appropriate nutritional management in accordance with more recent guidelines and the outcomes of those patients. Of the 54 children with AP, 12 (22.2%) had a primary diagnosis of AP (50% severe, 17% moderate) whereas 42 (77.8%) had a secondary diagnosis of AP (81% severe, 11.9% moderate). Just under half of the patients (48.1%) had enteral nutrition commenced before the third day of admission (50% with primary AP, 47.6% with secondary AP). The average time to initiation of enteral feeds was 2.3 days for those that received enteral nutrition. 51.8% of patients received parenteral nutrition (25% with primary AP, 59.5% with secondary AP). Most patients received enteral nutrition late and parenteral nutrition was overused in patients with AP admitted to the PICU.

Pediatric Pancreatitis-Molecular Mechanisms and Management

Pediatric pancreatitis is an emerging field with an increasing incidence of disease. Management of pediatric pancreatitis is understudied and, therefore, extrapolated from adult studies (although the etiologies are different). There is evidence that feeding is safe in mild acute pancreatitis in children without increased pain or length of stay. Studies are needed to predict course of the disease, disease severity, and risk of chronic pancreatitis in children.

Concordance of the Balthazar Grade and the Revised Atlanta Classification: Proposing a Modified Balthazar Grade to Predict the Severity of Acute Pancreatitis in Pediatric Population

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the concordance of the Balthazar grade and the revised Atlanta classification and then establish a modified radiological scoring system that would predict 3 degrees of severity of acute pancreatitis (AP) based on the latest Atlanta classification.

METHODS

A retrospective study enrolling pediatric inpatients with AP who had completed computed tomography was conducted between January 2006 and March 2018. The concordance of the 2 radiological scoring systems was assessed with κ statistic.

RESULTS

The Balthazar grade was unable to accurately predict the severity of AP compared with the revised Atlanta classification. However, a modified Balthazar grading system defining patents with Balthazar grades A to C as mild, grade D as moderately, and grade E as severe presented perfect agreement with the revised Atlanta classification across the enrolled population (κ, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.73-0.97). The concordance of the modified Balthazar score and the revised Atlanta classification remained a perfect degree of agreement across repeated tests in 90 random samples (κ, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.85-0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

The modified Balthazar grade demonstrated perfect agreement with the latest Atlanta classification for AP severity scoring. As such, the modified Balthazar grade can be used to predict 3 degrees of severity of AP.

Prevalence of abnormal glucose metabolism in pediatric acute, acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis

Type 3C Diabetes, or diseases of the exocrine pancreas has been reported to occur in approximately 30% of adult patient with pancreatitis. The incidence of glucose abnormalities or risk factors that may predict the development of abnormal glucose in the pediatric pancreatitis population is not known. We performed a retrospective chart review from 1998–2016 for patients who carry the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis (AP), acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP), and chronic pancreatitis (CP). We extracted glucose values, HbA1c%, and data from oral glucose tolerance and mixed meal testing with timing in relation to pancreatic exacerbations. Patient characteristic data such as age, gender, body proportions, family history of pancreatitis, exocrine function and genetic mutations were also assessed. Abnormal glucose was based on definitions put forth by the American Diabetes Society for pre-diabetes and diabetes. Fifty-two patients had AP and met criteria. Of those, 15 (29%) had glucose testing on or after the first attack, 21 (40%) were tested on or after the second attack (in ARP patients) and 16 (31%) were tested after a diagnosis of CP. Of the patients tested for glucose abnormalities, 25% (13/52) had abnormal glucose testing (testing indicating pre-DM or DM as defined by ADA guidelines. A significantly higher proportion of the abnormal glucose testing was seen in patients (85%, 11/13) with a BMI at or greater than the 85^th percentile compared to the normal glucose patients (28%, 11/39) (p = 0.0007). A significantly higher proportion of the abnormal glucose patients (77%, 10/13) had SAP during the prior AP episode to testing compared to the 10% (4/39) of the normal glucose patients (p<0.0001). Older age at DM testing was associated with a higher prevalence of abnormal glucose testing (p = 0.04). In our patient population, a higher proportion of glucose abnormalities were after the second episode of pancreatitis, however 62% (8/13) with abnormalities was their first time tested. We identified obesity and having severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) during the prior AP episode to testing could be associated with abnormal glucose. We propose that systematic screening for abnormal glucose after the first episode of acute pancreatitis in order to better establish the timing of diabetes progression.

Pancreatic disorders in children: New clues on the horizon

Pancreatic disorders in children represent a growing health problem in pediatric patients. In the past two decades, several advances have been made in the knowledge of pediatric pancreatic disorders, with better understanding of different etiologies and clinical manifestations of these disorders. Moreover, many efforts have been made in pancreatology, aiming to define guidelines in the management of pancreatitis in children, initially based on the available information in adults. A multidisciplinary and multicenter approach is necessary to better determine pancreatic disease pathways and treatment options in children.

Nutritional Considerations in Pediatric Pancreatitis: A Position Paper from the NASPGHAN Pancreas Committee and ESPGHAN Cystic Fibrosis/Pancreas Working Group

OBJECTIVES

Wide variations exist in how physicians manage the nutritional aspects of children affected by acute pancreatitis (AP), acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP), and chronic (CP) pancreatitis. Better consensus for optimal management is needed.

METHODS

This consensus statement on nutrition in pediatric pancreatic diseases was developed through a joint ESPGHAN-NASPGHAN working group that performed an evidence-based search of the literature on nutrition in AP, ARP, and CP with a focus on pediatrics. The literature was summarized, quality of evidence reviewed, and expert recommendations developed. The authorship met to discuss the evidence and statements. Voting on recommendations occurred over 2 rounds based on feedback. A consensus of at least 75% was required to approve a recommendation. Areas requiring further research were identified.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The literature on nutrition in pediatric pancreatitis is limited. Children with mild AP benefit from starting an early nutritional regimen in the course of the attack. Early nutrition should be attempted in severe AP when possible; enteral nutrition is preferred over parenteral nutrition. Children with ARP are likely to tolerate and benefit from a regular diet. Children with CP need ongoing assessment for growth and nutritional deficiencies, exocrine and endocrine insufficiencies.

CONCLUSIONS

This document presents the first authoritative recommendations on nutritional considerations in pediatric pancreatitis. Future research should address the gaps in knowledge particularly relating to optimal nutrition for AP in children, role of diet or dietary supplements on recurrent attacks of pancreatitis and pain episodes, monitoring practices to detect early growth and nutritional deficiencies in CP and identifying risk factors that predispose children to these deficiencies.

Amalgamation of systemic inflammatory response syndrome score with C-reactive protein level in evaluating acute pancreatitis severity in children

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) has to do with how the body reacts to injury. Herein, we analyzed the clinical features of acute pancreatitis (AP) in children with SIRS complication and investigated the role of SIRS score combined with C-reactive protein (CRP) level in assessing AP severity in children.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study involved 111 children hospitalized with AP at the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine between January 2012 and August 2017. Presence of SIRS, demographic data, clinical information and laboratory test results on admission were statistically examined.

RESULTS

Out of the 111 AP cases, 45 were diagnosed with SIRS. Differences in CRP, interleukin-6 (IL-6), age, temperature, heart rate (HR), white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil count (NC), body mass index (BMI), duration of onset of disease symptoms as well as cases requiring intensive care unit (ICU) treatment were significantly higher in patients with SIRS than those without SIRS (p < .01 or p < .05). Logistic regression analyses evinced two independent risk factors for SIRS to be coexisted diseases (odds ratio (OR) = 4.871, p = .02) and fever (OR = 3.56, p = .007). SIRS was an independent predictor for AP severity (OR = 10.820, p = .005). The optimal cut-off value of CRP was 27.5 mg/L for severe AP classification according to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) (area under curve was 0.733).

CONCLUSION

Amalgamation of SIRS criterion with CRP level potentially plays an important role in assessing AP severity in children.

Multivariate Model for the Prediction of Severity of Acute Pancreatitis in Children

This study aimed to develop a severity prediction system for pediatric patients with acute pancreatitis (AP) based on clinical and laboratory parameters recorded at disease onset. A retrospective cohort study including 130 patients with AP, aged 0 to 18 years, was conducted. Correlations between severe AP (SAP) and clinical and laboratory data were established. Parameters with a significant statistical correlation (P ≤ 0.05) were incorporated in logistic regression models, and receiver operating characteristic curves were generated. The best-performance cutoff points were calculated to propose a severity prediction score, for which sensitivity and specificity were determined. Thirty-eight cases (29.2%) were consistent with SAP. A value of ≥1 point yielded a sensitivity of 81.5% and specificity of 64.1% for SAP prediction, when using a score including blood urea nitrogen ≥12.5 mg/dL (1 point) or hemoglobin <13 mg/dL (1 point) as variables. The proposed severity score showed good performance in predicting SAP.

Management of Acute Pancreatitis in the Pediatric Population: A Clinical Report From the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Pancreas Committee

BACKGROUND

Although the incidence of acute pancreatitis (AP) in children is increasing, management recommendations rely on adult published guidelines. Pediatric-specific recommendations are needed.

METHODS

The North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Pancreas committee performed a MEDLINE review using several preselected key terms relating to management considerations in adult and pediatric AP. The literature was summarized, quality of evidence reviewed, and statements of recommendations developed. The authorship met to discuss the evidence, statements, and voted on recommendations. A consensus of at least 75% was required to approve a recommendation.

RESULTS

The diagnosis of pediatric AP should follow the published INternational Study Group of Pediatric Pancreatitis: In Search for a CuRE definitions (by meeting at least 2 out of 3 criteria: (1) abdominal pain compatible with AP, (2) serum amylase and/or lipase values ≥3 times upper limits of normal, (3) imaging findings consistent with AP). Adequate fluid resuscitation with crystalloid appears key especially within the first 24 hours. Analgesia may include opioid medications when opioid-sparing measures are inadequate. Pulmonary, cardiovascular, and renal status should be closely monitored particularly within the first 48 hours. Enteral nutrition should be started as early as tolerated, whether through oral, gastric, or jejunal route. Little evidence supports the use of prophylactic antibiotics, antioxidants, probiotics, and protease inhibitors. Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, and endoscopic ultrasonography have limited roles in diagnosis and management. Children should be carefully followed for development of early or late complications and recurrent attacks of AP.

CONCLUSIONS

This clinical report represents the first English-language recommendations for the management of pediatric AP. Future aims should include prospective multicenter pediatric studies to further validate these recommendations and optimize care for children with AP.

Management of acute pancreatitis in children

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Pediatric acute pancreatitis has been on the rise in the last decades, with an incidence close to adult pancreatitis. In the majority of cases acute pancreatitis resolves spontaneously, but in a subset of children the disease progresses to severe acute pancreatitis with attendant morbidity and mortality.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pediatric acute pancreatitis in this era is recognized as a separate entity from adult acute pancreatitis given that the causes and disease outcomes are different. There are slow but important advances made in understanding the best management for acute pancreatitis in children from medical, interventional, and surgical aspects.

SUMMARY

Supportive care with fluids, pain medications, and nutrition remain the mainstay for acute pancreatitis management. For complicated or severe pancreatitis, specialized interventions may be required with endoscopic or drainage procedures. Surgery has an important but limited role in pediatric acute pancreatitis.