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Pyloric stenosis
Definition:
Pyloric stenosis is a narrowing of the outlet from the stomach to the small intestine (called the pylorus). The condition primarily occurs in infants. Alternative Names:
Congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; Gastric outlet obstruction Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
This condition is caused by a thickening of the muscles of the pylorus. This prevents the stomach from emptying into the small intestine. The cause of the thickening is unknown, although genetic factors may play a role. It occurs more commonly in boys than in girls and is rare in patients older than 6 months. Approximately 2 to 3 of every 1,000 infants has pyloric stenosis.
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