ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

Which demographic is most commonly affected by pyloric stenosis?

1. Infants

2. Adolescents

3. Adults

4. Elderly

The correct answer is: Infants

Pyloric stenosis is a condition that primarily affects infants, particularly those who are less than six months old. In this condition, the pylorus, which is the opening from the stomach into the small intestine, becomes narrowed, leading to severe vomiting and dehydration. The reasons for its higher incidence in infants may be related to developmental factors in utero or early in life, as it is not commonly found in older children or adults. The condition is typically diagnosed within the first few weeks after birth, and the majority of cases occur in male infants compared to females. Understanding this demographic is crucial for timely diagnosis and management, as untreated pyloric stenosis can lead to serious complications in this vulnerable age group. In contrast, pyloric stenosis is rarely seen in adolescents, adults, or the elderly, as these populations are outside the typical age range for this diagnosis. Conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract in these older age groups usually present very differently and may involve other types of gastrointestinal pathology.