Acute Pancreatitis in Children: Retrospective Analysis of 133 Patients

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the etiology, clinic and laboratory features of acute pancreatitis (AP) in children retrospectively. We also aimed to determine the effects of clinical, laboratory and radiological markers on length of hospital stay (LOS). Materials and methods: This study was conducted of 133 patients diagnosed with AP. Patients were divided into two groups based on LOS: ≤7 days and >7 days. Demographic, clinical, laboratory and radiological parameters, as well as time to initiation of feeding, were analyzed. Results: The mean age of patients was 11.2 ± 4.8 years, and 54.1% were male. The most common etiologies were obstructive (30.8%) and idiopathic (29.3%). Drug-induced and traumatic causes were significantly more prevalent in patients with a hospital stay of more than seven days (p = 0.001). Radiological findings other than pancreatic edema (peripancreatic fluid, pleural effusion, or ascites) were significantly associated with prolonged LOS (p = 0.002). A positive correlation was observed between LDH and LOS (r = 0.253, p = 0.031). LOS was significantly shorter in patients who initiated oral feeding within 48 h (p < 0.001). Conclusions: LOS in pediatric AP is influenced by laboratory parameters, radiological findings, and the timing of feeding initiation. Identifying early prognostic indicators, particularly in the pediatric patient group, may guide individualized management and improve clinical outcomes.