Modern Pediatrics. Ukraine. (2026).4(156): 31-41. doi: 10.15574/SP.2026.4(156).3141
Seriakova I. Yu., Kramarov S. O., Yevtushenko V. V., Shadrin V. O., Kyrytsia N. S., Voronov O. O.
Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine

For citation: Seriakova IYu, Kramarov SO, Yevtushenko VV, Shadrin VO, Kyrytsia NS, Voronov OO. (2026). Abdominal compression syndrome in infectious diseases in children. Modern Pediatrics. Ukraine. 4(156): 31-41. doi: 10.15574/SP.2026.4(156).3141.
Article received: Feb 25, 2026. Accepted for publication: May 12, 2026.

Aim – to investigate the course of abdominal compression syndrome (ACS) in children with infectious diseases and compare clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with elevated and normal intra-abdominal pressure (IAP).
Materials and methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 50 case histories of children aged from 1 month to 12 years who underwent IAP measurements. The main group consisted of 18 children with elevated IAP (>12 mmHg), and the control group comprised 32 patients with normal IAP (<10 mmHg) ACS was defined by a sustained IAP elevation exceeding 12 mmHg accompanied by organ dysfunction. Clinical, laboratory, instrumental, and statistical research methods were employed in the study.
Results. Patients with elevated IAP (12-29 mmHg) had a longer hospital stay (median 19 days vs. 9), and more frequently required mechanical ventilation (33.3% vs. 9.4%) and inotropic support. They more frequently presented with hypotension, dyspnea, hypoxemia, classic symptoms of ACS, as well as deterioration of renal, hepatic, and metabolic functions. The oxygenation index was lower (282±48 vs. 356±42). All children in the main group developed ACS with multiorgan dysfunction. Systolic blood pressure and ejection fraction remained within normal limits, while cardiac output was increased.
Conclusions. Elevated IAP in children is associated with the development of ACS, worsening of respiratory, renal, hepatic, and metabolic parameters, and a greater need for organ support. Early detection and monitoring of IAP may contribute to the timely correction of organ dysfunction.
The study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent for participation was obtained from the children’s parents.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Keywords: abdominal compression syndrome, intra-abdominal pressure, children, COVID-19, infectious diseases, diagnosis.

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