Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026): Julio- Septiembre 2026: Revista Multidisciplinaria Investigación Contemporánea
Ciencias de la Salud- Caso clínico

Choledocholithiasis in a 7-Month-Old Infant: A Rare Presentation and Diagnostic Challenge

DOI: 10.58995/redlic.rmic.v4.n3.a161
Elena Cristina Albuja González
Médico Posgradista de Pediatría, Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde; Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil
Bio
Viviana Soledad Álvarez Alvarado
Médico Posgradista de Pediatría, Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde; Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil
Bio
María Isabel Sánchez Dávila
Médico Posgradista de Pediatría, Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde; Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil
Bio

Abstract

Choledocholithiasis refers to the presence of stones in the common bile duct and represents an uncommon condition in the pediatric population, with an estimated incidence of less than 1–2% of biliary disorders in infants. Its diagnosis may be delayed due to the nonspecific nature of clinical manifestations, increasing the risk of hepatobiliary and pancreatic complications. We report the case of a 7-month-old male infant who presented with a three-day history of persistent irritability, feeding refusal, bilious vomiting, and pale stools progressing to acholia. Physical examination revealed scleral icterus and abdominal tenderness in the right upper quadrant during palpation. Laboratory tests demonstrated direct hyperbilirubinemia and elevated liver enzymes. Abdominal ultrasound showed dilation of the common bile duct with intraluminal lithiasis. Conservative management with supportive care and specialized follow-up was implemented, resulting in favorable clinical evolution. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis using ultrasonography and close clinical monitoring in infants with suspected biliary obstruction.

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Published 2026-07-01

Keywords

  • choledocholithiasis,
  • infant,
  • jaundice,
  • abdominal pain,
  • biliary stones

How to Cite

Albuja González , E. C. ., Álvarez Alvarado , V. S. ., & Sánchez Dávila, M. I. . (2026). Choledocholithiasis in a 7-Month-Old Infant: A Rare Presentation and Diagnostic Challenge. Contemporary Research, 4(3). https://doi.org/10.58995/redlic.rmic.v4.n3.a161