Muhandiram Ralalage Darshika Rathnamali Muhandiram¹, Brian Coppin¹, Imogen Lee¹, Lyn Yeong¹
1- Women’s and Children’s Hospital, SA, Australia
Corresponding Author:
Muhandiram Ralalage Darshika Rathnamali Muhandiram (
daarshika@gmail.com)
Abstract Body
Introduction: Gaviscone is an alginate based reflex medication which is commonly used to treat reflux specially in paediatric practice. Gavisconoma is rare cause of projectile vomiting in neonates caused by buildup of Gaviscone used to treat reflux in newborns. Symptoms can mimic pyloric stenosis and other metabolic diseases which makes diagnosis a chalange
Case presentation: 18 days old male neonate with uncomplicated antenatal and birth history was referred from general practitioner for further investigations of non-bilious projectile vomiting and growth flattening. He has been started on Gaviscone oral liquid for symptoms of mild relux from day 10 of life. Examination revealed soft abdomen with mild distention of upper left quadrant without palpable masses. Blood gas analysis, inflammatory markers and electrolytes were within normal range for the age . Ultrasound examination revealed a intra gastric mass 3cm x 2cm size with suggestion of MRI scan for further analysis. MRI abdomen revealed a bezoar formation in the stomach, likely Gavisconoma given the clinical details. His symptoms resolved after stopping Gaviscone and repeat ultrasound scan after one weak showed disappearance of the stomach mass
Conclusion: Gavisconoma is a rare and serious complication in neonates which can be reversible after stopping the medication. A descriptive clinical assessment and early suspicion are important in prevention of complications.