The Prevalence of Cholelithiasis in Sickle Cell Disease as Diagnosed by Ultrasound and Cholecystography

Abstract

Gallbladder disease is increased in sickle cell disease (SS). The prevalence of cholelithiasis in children with SS has been reported as 10% to 37%. Gallbladder ultrasound, cholecystography, and/or abdominal radiography were used to evaluate 31 patients aged 2-18 yr with no systematic evidence of gallbladder disease for cholelithiasis. Overall prevalence of gallstones was 29%. Cholelithiasis was detected in children as young as 4 yr of age. Prevalence below the age of 10 yr and above the age of 10 yr was 11% and 55%, respectively. The increased prevalence of cholelithiasis in children with sickle cell disease suggests the use of diagnostic ultrasonography as a routine screening procedure.