Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Pyloric Stenosis
Congenital narrowing of the pyloric sphincter causing gastric outlet obstruction in infants.
Full Definition
Pyloric stenosis is a condition where the muscle around the pylorus (the opening from the stomach to the small intestine) becomes thickened and enlarged, blocking food from entering the small intestine. It typically presents in the first few weeks of life with projectile vomiting and is one of the most common surgical conditions in infants. The condition requires surgical intervention via pyloromyotomy to relieve the obstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as HPS; distinguish from pyloromyotomy which is the surgical treatment.
In Context
- "The infant presented with classic signs of pyloric stenosis including projectile vomiting and a palpable olive-shaped mass." — Clinical case report
- "Ultrasound findings confirmed pyloric stenosis with muscle wall thickness measuring 4.5mm." — Diagnostic report
Also known as
Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis
HPS
Don't confuse with
Pyloromyotomy
Pyloric Atresia