Authors: Mshelbwala, P. M.; Sabiu, L.; Chirdan, L. B.; Ameh, E. A.; Nmadu, P. T.

Source: Annals of Tropical Paediatrics: International Child Health, Volume 26, Number 2, June 2006 , pp. 133-135(3)

Publisher: Maney Publishing

Abstract:

Background: Umbilical discharge is not an unusual presentation in infants and children. However, the evaluation and management are rarely discussed.

Method: A retrospective review of 18 patients presenting with persistent umbilical discharge over a period of 22 years, excluding neonates with omphalitis.

Results: The patients' ages ranged between 11 days and 9 years. Presentation was usually discharge of clear, serous or purulent fluid or faecal matter from the umbilicus, sometimes dating back to the neonatal period. Evaluation consisted of bacteriology, fistulogram (one patient) and histopathology. The cause of discharge was patent vitello-intestinal duct in 11 patients, umbilical granuloma in three, umbilical sinus in two and patent urachus and osteomyelitis of the ischium in one each. Definitive treatment was exploration and complete excision of the lesion and antibiotics. Two patients with patent vitello-intestinal duct died, one before surgery from hypokalaemia and sepsis, and the other from anaesthetic complications.

Conclusion: There is a need for early referral and treatment in patients with persistent umbilical discharge. Conservative treatment is usually not successful as the common causes would normally require complete excision.

Document Type: Research Article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1179/146532806X107485

Affiliations: Division of Paediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria

Publication date: 2006-06-01

More about this publication?

• In 2012 Annals of Tropical Paediatrics changed its name to Paediatrics and International Child Health to reflect changes and developments in the subject area. View the issues of Paediatrics and International Child Health available online.
• Editorial Board
• Information for Authors
• Submit a Paper
• Subscribe to this Title
• Information for Advertisers
• Terms & Conditions
• Top articles
• Health Science Spotlight
• Abstracted in
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Internal Medicine ,  Pediatrics
• By this author: Mshelbwala, P. M. ;  Sabiu, L. ;  Chirdan, L. B. ;  Ameh, E. A. ;  Nmadu, P. T.

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers