Seasonal Variation and Clinical Manifestations of Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) is a gastrointestinal condition that affects newborns and young infants and is characterized by progressive, non-bilious projectile vomiting. This study aimed to investigate the demographics and clinical manifestations of HPS. A retrospective, non-randomized study was conducted over a period of three years (2019-2022) and included 29 patients diagnosed with HPS at the Pediatric Clinic of the County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Constanta. The results showed a significant male predilection, with a ratio of 1:4.8, and a seasonal variation with a higher incidence of HPS in the summer months. The primary symptom of HPS was non-bilious forceful vomiting after feeding, observed in nearly all cases. Other symptoms included dehydration, stagnation and decrease in weight. The thickness of the pyloric muscle was measured using ultrasonography and was found to be an average of 54.5 mm, with a range between 30 mm and 79 mm, which is considered a strong indication of HPS. This study highlights the importance of considering HPS as a possible diagnosis in newborns and young infants presenting with symptoms of projectile vomiting, and emphasizes the need for further research into the seasonal variation of HPS and its underlying causes.