Study of Normal Lymph Nodes in the Lower Abdomen of Children and Teens Using Point of Care Ultrasound

What this Trial Is About

This observational study focuses on children and teenagers aged 2 to 16 years, investigating the normal appearances of lymph nodes in the lower abdomen using point of care ultrasound POCUS. The goal is to better understand what normal lymph node numbers and sizes look like in young people who visit the pediatric emergency department for non-abdominal injuries. This information aims to help in identifying abnormalities such as mesenteric adenitis, a condition often suspected but not well-defined by imaging. Participants include children presenting with injuries like head, face, neck, or limb trauma but without abdominal or infectious symptoms. The study uses POCUS to scan the right lower abdomen to record the number and size of lymph nodes. This baseline evaluation will help define normal ranges to support future diagnosis of mesenteric adenitis. During the study, participants undergo abdominal ultrasound scans, with data collected over a six-month period to measure lymph nodes. Researchers will monitor the ultrasound results to describe normal lymph node characteristics. There are no treatments involved, and participation mainly includes one or more ultrasound assessments to gather these measurements safely and non-invasively.

Baseline Evaluation of Lymph Nodes in the Lower Quadrant Young People Using Point of Care Ultrasound (BELLY-POCUS)