Abdominal pseudotumor in childhood: distended gallbladder with parenteral hyperalimentation

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Abstract
Two children receiving total parenteral hyperalimentation had palpable upper abdominal masses. Sonography showed these masses to be distended gallbladders. Sonograms of four other children receiving parenteral hyperalimentation were examined to determine if gallbladder distension in these cases was coincidental or common; three of four also had gallbladder distension. Follow-up sonograms after initiation of oral feedings in two children showed reduced gallbladder dimensions. Children can have palpable, distended gallbladders while fasting and receiving parenteral hyperalimentation. Sonography can differentiate distended gallbladders from other abdominal masses.