Similar Long-Term Outcomes in Children Presenting With Abscess vs Phlegmon at Diagnosis of Crohn Disease

BACKGROUND: Limited data are available for long-term outcomes of pediatric patients with abdominal abscess or phlegmon at diagnosis of Crohn disease. METHODS: We performed a retrospective chart review of such children over a recent 6-year period at 5 pediatric inflammatory bowel diseases. RESULTS: Fifty-two patients (mean age 15.9 ± 1.8 years) were reviewed. Thirty-six had an abscess and 27 (75%) required resectional therapy compared to 16 with phlegmon which 10 (63%) requiring surgery. Overall (37/52) 71% had surgery which was performed within 6 months in 32 (86%). CONCLUSIONS: A similar high surgical rate exists whether pediatric patients with Crohn disease present with abscess or phlegmon.