Tuberculosis of the stomach with special reference to its incidence in children
Binder, I.; Ruby, V.M.; Shuman, B.J.
Gastroenterology 5: 474-490
1945
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-5085 PMID: 21012742 Document Number: 15878
Tuberculosis of the stomach is uncommon in all age groups and particularly in children. A review is presented of 61 cases of gastric tuberculosis in children 15 years of age and younger, collected from the literature. The ratio of incidence of gastric tuberculosis in adults and children is 5 to 1, in contrast to previous reports of lower ratios. The most common lesion is ulcer (95% of the cases). The pars pylorica and the body of the stomach are more frequently involved than the cardia. Attempts to explain the infrequent occurrence of gastric tuberculosis have been manifold but inconclusive. Possible routes of infection include: hematogenous, lymphogenous, serosal and mucosal (direct) routes. We are in agreement with those who deny the possibility of the mucosal method of infection. Vomiting, emaciation and diarrhea are the most frequent symptoms. These, however, are not reliable in making a specific diagnosis, nor are determinations of gastric acidity, gastroscopic examination and roentgenographic studies of conclusive value. The diagnosis of gastric tuberculosis in children must be considered in patients with known or suspected tuberculosis who also present symptoms referable to the gastrointestinal tract.
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