How reliable are the Rome III criteria for the assessment of functional gastrointestinal disorders in children?

Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders and Associated Risk Factors Among Preschool Children in the City of Jeddah and Surrounding Areas: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) affect children's daily activities and overall performance due to gastrointestinal symptoms. This study assesses the prevalence and types of FGIDs in children living in Jeddah City and its countryside. It also examines factors that contribute to the incidence of these disorders and their impact on children's lifestyles. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 285 mothers of preschool children enrolled in kindergartens during the academic year 2020-2021. The Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire was sent out online through kindergartens to be filled out by the children's mothers. The questionnaire assessed the prevalence of FGIDs subjectively through symptoms and their frequency. Results: Among the 285 participants, 9% (n = 27) fit the diagnostic criteria for FGIDs. Common FGIDs included functional constipation, 3.5% (n = 10); postprandial distress syndrome, 2.4% (n = 7); functional abdominal pain-not otherwise specified, 1% (n = 3); and functional epigastric pain, 0.7% (n = 2). Significant risk factors for developing FGIDs among the children in the sample included being a preterm baby (p < 0.01), being previously diagnosed with a gastrointestinal condition (p < 0.010), having a family history of diarrhea or nausea and vomiting (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), skipping lunch at kindergarten (p < 0.01), and having pre-existing food allergies (p < 0.01). Conclusions: FGIDs were prevalent among 9% of children in Jeddah City and its countryside. Functional constipation was the most common disorder. Factors associated with FGIDs in children included preterm birth, being previously diagnosed with a GI condition, a family history of gastrointestinal conditions, irregular eating habits, and food allergies.

Reliability of pediatric Rome IV criteria for the diagnosis of disorders of gut-brain interaction

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) in children is exclusively based on clinical criteria called the Rome criteria. The inter-rater reliability (IRR) measures how well two raters agree with a diagnosis using the same diagnostic tool. Previous versions of the Rome criteria showed only fair to moderate IRR. There have been no studies assessing the IRR of the current edition of the pediatric Rome criteria (Rome IV). This study sought to investigate the IRR of the pediatric Rome IV criteria and compare its reliability with the previous versions of the Rome criteria. We hypothesized that changes made to Rome IV would result in higher IRR than previous versions.

METHODS

This study used the same methodology as the previous studies on Rome II and III, including identical clinical vignettes, number of raters, and levels of expertise. Participants included 10 pediatric gastroenterology fellows and 10 pediatric gastroenterology specialists. IRR was assessed using the percentage of agreement and Cohen's kappa coefficient to account for possible agreement by chance.

RESULTS

The average IRR percentage of agreement using the Rome IV criteria was 55% for pediatric gastroenterologists and 48.5% for fellows, indicating moderate agreement (k = 0.54 for specialists, k = 0.47 for fellows). The results demonstrated higher percentages of agreement and kappa coefficients compared to the Rome II and III criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings demonstrate improved reliability in Rome IV compared to Rome II and III, suggesting that the changes incorporated into the Rome IV criteria have enhanced diagnostic consistency. Despite the advancements, the reliability is still moderate, indicating the need for further refinement of future versions of the Rome criteria.

Italian guidelines for the management of irritable bowel syndrome in children and adolescents : Joint Consensus from the Italian Societies of: Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Pediatric Nutrition (SIGENP), Pediatrics (SIP), Gastroenterology and Endoscopy (SIGE) and Neurogastroenterology and Motility (SINGEM)

The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID), whose prevalence has widely increased in pediatric population during the past two decades. The exact pathophysiological mechanism underlying IBS is still uncertain, thus resulting in challenging diagnosis and management. Experts from 4 Italian Societies participated in a Delphi consensus, searching medical literature and voting process on 22 statements on both diagnosis and management of IBS in children. Recommendations and levels of evidence were evaluated according to the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Consensus was reached for all statements. These guidelines suggest a positive diagnostic strategy within a symptom-based approach, comprehensive of psychological comorbidities assessment, alarm signs and symptoms' exclusion, testing for celiac disease and, under specific circumstances, fecal calprotectin and C-reactive protein. Consensus also suggests to rule out constipation in case of therapeutic failure. Conversely, routine stool testing for enteric pathogens, testing for food allergy/intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth are not recommended. Colonoscopy is recommended only in patients with alarm features. Regarding treatment, the consensus strongly suggests a dietary approach, psychologically directed therapies and, in specific conditions, gut-brain neuromodulators, under specialist supervision. Conditional recommendation was provided for both probiotics and specific fibers supplementation. Polyethylene glycol achieved consensus recommendation for specific subtypes of IBS. Secretagogues and 5-HT4 agonists are not recommended in children with IBS-C. Certain complementary alternative therapies, antispasmodics and, in specific IBS subtypes, loperamide and rifaximin could be considered.

Childhood constipation: Current status, challenges, and future perspectives

Constipation in children is a major health issue around the world, with a global prevalence of 9.5%. They present to clinicians with a myriad of clinical signs. The Rome IV symptom-based criteria are used to diagnose functional constipation. Functional constipation is also a huge financial burden for healthcare system and has a detrimental impact on health-related quality of life of children. There are various risk factors identified globally, including centrally connected factors such as child abuse, emotional and behavioral issues, and psychological stress. Constipation is also precipitated by a low-fiber diet, physical inactivity, and an altered intestinal microbiome. The main pathophysiological mechanism is stool withholding, while altered rectal function, anal sphincter, pelvic floor, and colonic dysfunction also play important roles. Clinical evaluation is critical in making a diagnosis, and most investigations are only required in refractory patients. In the treatment of childhood constipation, both nonpharmacological (education and de-mystification, dietary changes, toilet training, behavioral interventions, biofeedback, and pelvic floor physiotherapy), and pharmacological (osmotic and stimulant laxatives and novel drugs like prucalopride and lubiprostone) interventions are used. For children with refractory constipation, transanal irrigation, botulinum toxin, neuromodulation, and surgical treatments are reserved. While frequent use of probiotics is still in the experimental stage, healthy dietary habits, living a healthy lifestyle and limiting exposure to stressful events, are all beneficial preventive measures.

Pediatric Rome IV diagnosis agreement is greater than agreement on diagnostic testing

BACKGROUND

Pediatric Rome IV criteria are used to diagnose childhood functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). This study of pediatric gastroenterology physicians measured their agreement in (1) Making a pediatric Rome IV FGID diagnosis; and (2) Diagnostic testing for patients with FGIDs.

METHODS

Pediatric gastroenterologists and pediatric gastroenterology fellows at two medical centers completed a survey containing clinical FGID vignettes. For each vignette, raters identified the most likely Rome IV diagnosis(es) and selected which diagnostic test(s) (if any) they typically would obtain. The survey was re-administered within 3 months. Inter-rater and intra-rater weighted percent agreement was determined. Linear mixed modeling identified sources of variability in diagnostic testing.

KEY RESULTS

Thirty-four raters completed the initial survey of whom thirty-one (91%) completed the repeat survey. Overall inter-rater agreement on Rome IV diagnoses was 68% for initial and repeat surveys whereas intra-rater agreement was 76%. In contrast, overall inter-rater agreement on diagnostic testing was <30% for both initial and repeat surveys and intra-rater agreement was only 57%. Between-physician differences accounted for 43% of the variability in the number of tests selected. Rater identified use of Rome criteria in clinical practice was associated with 1.1 fewer diagnostic tests on average (95% CI 0.2-2.0, p = 0.015). Higher intra-rater agreement was noted for diagnostic testing in faculty when compared to fellows (p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

In a multicenter evaluation among pediatric gastroenterology physicians, pediatric Rome IV diagnostic agreement was higher than that reported for previous Rome versions, and higher than agreement on diagnostic testing.

High Rate of Emergency Department Care in Youth With Abdominal Pain-Associated Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to describe patterns of care delivery locations in youth with abdominal pain-associated functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGID) and assess for differences in patterns of care delivery by sex and race. A secondary objective was to describe cost variability within the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

Data were obtained using a large, single-vendor database that extracts and deidentifies data from the electronic health record across the outpatient, ED, and inpatient continuum of care. We evaluated patients 8 to 17 years of age seen over an 8-year period for a priority 1 diagnosis of an AP-FGID. Data collected included age, sex, race, encounter location, and total cost of ED encounters. We specifically assessed how often patients seen in the ED were also seen in outpatient or inpatient settings.

RESULTS

A total of 53,750 patients (64% female; mean age, 13.3 ± 2.8 years) were identified and assessed. The most common location of care was the ED (48.8%) followed by the outpatient setting (46.2%). Of patients seen for a priority 1 AP-FGID diagnosis in the ED, only 3.7% were seen for a priority 1 diagnosis in the outpatient setting, and only 1% were seen in an inpatient setting. Overall, females received 42.5% of their care and males received 44.8% of their care in the ED. The overall rate of ED care was 66.9% for Hispanic, 61.5% for African American, 55.1% for Asian, 46.6% for Native American, and 36.9% for Caucasian patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The ED is the most common location for care for youth with AP-FGIDs and, for the majority, seems to be the only location. This seems to be particularly true for Hispanic and African American patients. Given the often complex psychosocial needs of this patient group, processes need to be developed to transition these patients into the outpatient setting, ideally to programs specializing in chronic pain.

A Scoping Review of Non-Pharmacological Health Education Provided to Families of Children With Idiopathic Childhood Constipation Within Primary Health Care

OBJECTIVES

Idiopathic childhood constipation is a prevalent condition that initially brings the child under the care of the primary health care team. Although it is acknowledged that health education is crucial to reducing chronicity, the range of evidenced-based non-pharmacological health education provided to families has not previously been reviewed. For this scoping review, 4 research questions sought to identify papers that provide information on the utilization of guidelines, the range of health education, who provides it, and whether any gaps exist.

METHODS

Following a registered protocol and using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews, searches of 10 online databases, reference lists, Google Scholar, and book chapter references were made. Eligible papers were original research published in English between January 2000 and December 2022.

RESULTS

Twelve worldwide studies (2 qualitative and 10 quantitative) reported that: evidence-based guidelines are not consistently used by primary care providers; the range of non-pharmacological health education provided is inconsistent; the non-pharmacological health education is provided by doctors, nurses, and pharmacists; and that gaps exist in non-pharmacological health education provision.

CONCLUSION

This review demonstrates that rather than a lack of guideline-awareness, decreased specific idiopathic childhood constipation knowledge (and possibly time) may be responsible for inconsistent non-pharmacological health education. Inappropriate treatment and management of some children escalates risk for chronicity. Improving health education provision however, may be achieved through: increased collaboration; better utilization of nurses; and through developing the child's health literacy by involving both child and family in all aspects of health education and decision-making.

Clusters of community-dwelling individuals empirically derived from stool diaries correspond with clinically meaningful outcomes

BACKGROUND

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are diagnosed according to expert consensus criteria based on recall of symptoms over periods of 3 months or longer. Whether the expert opinion concords with underlying disease process and whether individual recall is accurate are both in doubt. This study aimed to identify naturally occurring clusters of individuals with respect to symptom pattern, evaluate their significance, compare cluster profiles with expert opinion and evaluate their temporal stability.

METHODS

As part of a random population study of FGID-related symptoms, we first explored the use of prospective stool and symptom diaries combined with empirical grouping of individuals into clusters using nonhierarchical cluster analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis identified two clusters of individuals, one of which was characterized by elevated scores on all domains of symptoms (26% of the sample) and one that was low to average on all domains (74% of the sample). Cluster membership was found to be stable over a long interval. Clusters were found to differ on most domains of quality-of-life (d = 0.46-0.74), self-rated health (d = -0.42) and depression (d = -0.42) but not anxiety. Prevalence of clinically diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) was higher in the more impacted cluster (33%) compared with the healthy cluster (13%; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

A naturalistic classification of individuals challenges consensus criteria in showing that some IBS individuals have a symptom experience not unlike health. The proposed approach has demonstrated temporal stability over time, unlike consensus criteria. A naturalistic disease classification system may have practical advantages over consensus criteria when supported by a decision-analytic system.

Healthcare System-to-System Cost Variability in the Care of Pediatric Abdominal Pain-Associated Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

The purpose of this study was to assess cost variability in the care of abdominal pain-associated functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDS) in youth across health systems, races, and specific AP-FGID diagnoses. Patients, aged 8-17 years, with a priority 1 diagnosis corresponding to a Rome IV defined AP-FGID were identified within the Health Facts® database. Total costs were obtained across the continuum of care including outpatient clinics, emergency department, and inpatient or observation units. Cost variability was described comparing different health systems, races, and diagnoses. Thirteen thousand two hundred and fourteen patients were identified accounting for 17,287 encounters. Total costs were available for 38.7% of the encounters. There was considerable variability in costs within and, especially, across health systems. Costs also varied across race, urban vs. rural site of care, and AP-FGID diagnoses. In conclusion, there was considerable variability in the costs for care of AP-FGIDs which is sufficient to support multi-site studies to understand the value of specific tests and treatments. Significant differences in costs by race merit further investigation to understand key drivers.

An Update on the Assessment and Management of Pediatric Abdominal Pain

Chronic abdominal pain is very common in children and adolescent and results in high personal and social costs. Most youth with chronic abdominal pain fulfill criteria for a functional abdominal pain disorder (FAPD) as defined by Rome criteria. These are complex conditions with a wide array of biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to the experience of pain. The purpose of the current review is to provide an overview of the pathophysiology of FAPDs and an up-to-date summary of the literature related to FAPDs in children and adolescents, with additional focus on several areas (eg, diet and probiotics) where patients and families frequently have questions or implement self-directed care. We also provide an approach to the assessment and treatment of pediatric FAPDs focusing on the robust literature regarding psychological interventions and much sparser literature regarding medication treatment.

Paediatric functional abdominal pain disorders

Paediatric functional abdominal pain disorders, currently referred to as disorders of gut-brain interaction, comprise irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, abdominal migraine and functional abdominal pain not otherwise specified, as defined by the Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Functional abdominal pain disorders are common disorders with a prevalence of 3-16% depending on country, age and sex. A greater understanding of aetiopathogenesis and pathophysiology is emerging and includes intestinal components (inflammation, motility and the microbiota), central factors (psychological aspects, sensitization and/or differences in connectivity or activity of certain brain regions) as well as extrinsic factors (infections). In particular, the timing of disruption of the microbiota-gut-brain axis seems to be important. Diagnosis is challenging but is primarily based on clinical symptoms and exclusion of other organic causes, with an emphasis on avoiding unnecessary invasive diagnostic procedures. The available pharmacological interventions are limited in children and, therefore, management has focused on combined approaches, including mind-targeted interventions (hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy), diet (probiotics) and percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation. The evidence for their clinical efficacy, although limited, is favourable, with positive impacts on symptoms and overall quality of life. The coming decades hold promise for improved understanding and management of these enigmatic disorders.

Functional gastrointestinal disorders in children and adolescents: Knowledge, practice and attitudes of Australian paediatricians

AIM

To investigate paediatricians' understanding of, and approaches to, the diagnosis and treatment of functional abdominal pain (FAP) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in children.

METHODS

This study used an electronic survey of doctors subscribing to a popular Australian-based paediatrics email forum. Responses about investigation and management in two clinical vignettes were correlated with respondent demographic data, practice setting, attitudes and knowledge.

RESULTS

The 327 respondents were mostly female (60.3%), aged <45 years (54.5%), general paediatricians (53.5%), working in public outpatient clinics (50.5%). Awareness of Rome III diagnostic criteria was low (37.2%) but associated with confidence in diagnosing FAP/IBS in the vignettes. Respondents who lacked confidence in diagnosing FAP/IBS requested more investigations (P < 0.05), although most acknowledged they would not be helpful. Most (70.5%) believed that families are unlikely to accept an FAP diagnosis without investigations requested. Fewer than 1 of 3 were aware of clear evidence for the effective therapy of FAP or IBS, although awareness did not influence management options selected. Two-thirds of respondents believe that FAP is a psychological rather than a medical problem, while few (8.8%) believe the same about IBS (P < 0.001). Parental pressure to find an immediate cure was cited as the most frequent challenge to successful management in both FAP (86.6%) and IBS (75.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Awareness of the Rome criteria was associated with greater confidence in diagnosing FAP and IBS. Attitudes to FAP and IBS being diagnoses of exclusion are prevalent among paediatricians and associated with more investigations requested. There is a lack of awareness of evidence-based therapies for FAP and IBS.

Irritable bowel syndrome in children: Current knowledge, challenges and opportunities

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common and troublesome disorder in children with an increasing prevalence noted during the past two decades. It has a significant effect on the lives of affected children and their families and poses a significant burden on healthcare systems. Standard symptom-based criteria for diagnosis of pediatric IBS have changed several times during the past two decades and there are some differences in interpreting symptoms between different cultures. This has posed a problem when using them to diagnose IBS in clinical practice. A number of potential patho-physiological mechanisms have been described, but so far the exact underlying etiology of IBS is unclear. A few potential therapeutic modalities have been tested in children and only a small number of them have shown some benefit. In addition, most of the described patho-physiological mechanisms and treatment options are based on adult studies. These have surfaced as challenges when dealing with pediatric IBS and they need to be overcome for effective management of children with IBS. Recently suggested top-down and bottom-up models help integrating reported patho-physiological mechanisms and will provide an opportunity for better understanding of the diseases process. Treatment trials targeting single treatment modalities are unlikely to have clinically meaningful therapeutic effects on IBS with multiple integrating patho-physiologies. Trials focusing on multiple combined pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies are likely to yield more benefit. In addition to treatment, in the future, attention should be paid for possible prevention strategies for IBS.

Functional abdominal pain disorders in children

Chronic abdominal pain is a common problem in pediatric practice. The majority of cases fulfill the Rome IV criteria for functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs). At times, these disorders may lead to rather serious repercussions. Area covered: We have attempted to cover current knowledge on epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors related to pathophysiology, clinical evaluation and management of children with FAPDs. Expert commentary: FAPDs are a worldwide problem with a pooled prevalence of 13.5%. There are a number of predisposing factors and pathophysiological mechanisms including stressful events, child maltreatment, visceral hypersensitivity, altered gastrointestinal motility and change in intestinal microbiota. It is possible that the environmental risk factors intricately interact with genes through epigenetic mechanisms to contribute to the pathophysiology. The diagnosis mainly depends on clinical evaluation. Commonly used pharmacological interventions do not play a major role in relieving symptoms. Centrally directed, nonpharmacological interventions such as hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy have shown both short and long term efficacy in relieving pain in children with FAPDs. However, these interventions are time consuming and need specially trained staff and therefore, not currently available at grass root level. Clinicians and researchers should join hands in searching for more pragmatic and effective therapeutic modalities to improve overall care of children with FAPDs.

Measuring the Transrectal Diameter on Point-of-Care Ultrasound to Diagnose Constipation in Children

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to determine the test performance characteristics for point-of-care ultrasound in diagnosing constipation, through measuring the transrectal diameter (TRD). We sought to develop a sonographic numeric cutoff value for diagnosing constipation. Secondary objectives included whether certain patient characteristics would affect the TRD measurement and the accuracy of the TRD in comparison with abdominal radiographs.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, cohort study of pediatric patients between the age of 4 and 17 years, presenting with abdominal pain to a pediatric emergency department. A point-of-care ultrasound was performed with a phased array transducer (5-1 MHz). In addition to a thorough history and physical examination, each patient was administered with the Rome III questionnaire, which served as the criterion standard for the diagnosis of constipation. Radiographs and enema treatments were performed at the discretion of the treating attending physician. When enemas were administered, a postenema TRD measurement was obtained.

RESULTS

Fifty subjects were "constipated" or "nonconstipated," as determined by the Rome III questionnaire. A TRD cutoff of 3.8 cm or greater correlated with the diagnoses of constipation (P < 0.001). Ultrasound-diagnosed constipation had a sensitivity of 86% (95% confidence interval, 69%-96%), specificity of 71% (95% CI, 53%-85%), negative predictive value of 0.87 (95% CI, 0.68-0.95), and positive predictive value of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.52-0.84). The TRD measurement was not affected by patient physical characteristics or bladder fullness. In 7 patients, an enema was administered. There was an overall mean (SD) decrease of 1.22 (1.62) cm; this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.093). Abdominal radiographs were performed in 25 patients. When compared with abdominal radiographs, ultrasound had a higher specificity of 71% (95% CI, 53%-85%), but this difference was not statistically significant. Ultrasound performed similarly to abdominal radiographs with regard to sensitivity 86% (95% CI, 67%-95%), positive predictive value of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.52-0.84), and negative predictive value of 0.87 (0.68-0.95). In 22 of 25 patients who received radiographs, the ultrasound diagnosis was the same as the radiologist read of the radiographs. Potentially, 88% of radiographs could have been avoided in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In pediatric patients with abdominal pain, there is a strong correlation of an enlarged TRD with constipation. Our results suggest that point-of-care ultrasound is a useful adjunct for diagnosing constipation and has the potential to replace the use of abdominal radiographs.

Examination of competing diagnostic models of functional gastrointestinal disorders related to pain in children

BACKGROUND

There have been no empirical validations of the Rome III or Rome IV criteria in children. The aim of the current study was to examine whether symptoms naturally occur in a pattern consistent with Rome III and/or Rome IV pediatric criteria for functional dyspepsia (FD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 250 children, ages 8-17 years, presenting to an abdominal pain clinic with pain of at least 8 weeks duration. We evaluated patterns of gastrointestinal (GI) and non-gastrointestinal (non-GI) symptoms which had been collected in a standardized fashion as part of routine clinical care. Confirmatory factor analyses were used to compare pre-existing models of symptoms clusters, namely Rome III and Rome IV criteria for IBS and FD in children and adolescents. Factor intercorrelations also were examined to determine whether IBS symptoms and non-GI somatic complaints correlate uniquely with FD symptom clusters.

KEY RESULTS

Both models demonstrated good fit with observed data [3-factor: χ² (101, n=250)110.75, P<.05, TLI=.99, CFI=.99; 4-factor: χ² (98, n=250)117.54, P<.05, TLI=.96, CFI=.97]. Fit indices and intercorrelations favored the more parsimonious 3-factor solution (3-factor: AIC=4654.91, BIC=4778.17; 4-factor: AIC=4757.16, BIC=4890.97) consistent with pediatric Rome III criteria that conceptualizes FD as a single diagnostic category. FD demonstrated significant overlap with IBS (.42), while non-GI-specific symptoms correlated significantly with FD (.64), but not IBS (.14) symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

GI symptoms in children presenting for initial evaluation of chronic functional abdominal pain occur in a pattern consistent with Rome III and IV pediatric criteria. Rome III offers a more parsimonious model. The presence of FD symptoms is strongly, and uniquely, associated with non-GI symptoms.

Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaires and Tables for Investigators and Clinicians

The Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaires were developed to screen for functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), serve as inclusion criteria in clinical trials, and support epidemiological surveys. Separate questionnaires were developed for adults, children/adolescents, and infants/toddlers. For the adult questionnaire, we first surveyed 1,162 adults without gastrointestinal disorders, and recommended the 90th percentile symptom frequency as the threshold for defining what is abnormal. Diagnostic questions were formulated and verified with clinical experts using a recursive process. The diagnostic sensitivity of the questionnaire was tested in 843 patients from 9 gastroenterology clinics, with a focus on clinical diagnoses of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional constipation (FC), and functional dyspepsia (FD). Sensitivity was 62.7% for IBS, 54.7% for FD, and 32.2% for FC. Specificity, assessed in a population sample of 5,931 adults, was 97.1% for IBS, 93.3% for FD, and 93.6% for FC. Excess overlap among IBS, FC, and FD was a major contributor to reduced diagnostic sensitivity, and when overlap of IBS with FC was permitted, sensitivity for FC diagnosis increased to 73.2%. All questions were understandable to at least 90% of individuals, and Rome IV diagnoses were reproducible in ¾ of patients after one month. Validation of the pediatric questionnaires is ongoing.

Present state and future challenges in pediatric abdominal pain therapeutics research: Looking beyond the forest

At the present time, it is nearly impossible to treat pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders associated with pain in an evidence based fashion. This is due to the overall lack of controlled studies and, even more importantly, the complexity of the contributors to disease phenotype which are not controlled or accounted for in most therapeutic trials. In this manuscript, we review the challenges of defining entry criteria, controlling for the large number of biopsychosocial factors which may effect outcomes, and understanding pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic factors when designing therapeutic trials for abdominal pain in children. We also review the current state of pediatric abdominal pain therapeutics and discuss trial design considerations as we move forward.

Education and Hypnosis for Treatment of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) in Pediatrics

FGIDs in children and adolescents (ROME III classification) have a significant impact on the daily functioning and quality of life. Often it is the pain that is one of the main contributors to the burden of functional dyspepsia, functional abdominal pain (syndrome), and irritable bowel syndrome. Current knowledge confirms that a number of integrated networks at cortical and subcortical sites are responsible for the experience of pain. From the work of Mayer and Tillisch (2011), mainly based on structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography, it has become clear that abdominal pain syndromes are disorders of the bi-directional mind-brain-gut interactions. In this multi-factorial bio-psycho-social model we recognize the importance of neurobiological processes in the mind-brain-gut interactions, leading to alterations in motility, sensation, and immune functions. Medical treatment often offers little or no relief. Until now pharmaceutical research has not succeeded in developing safe new drugs with an effect on the brain-gut axis. More recent published research shows the rationale for the use of medical hypnosis in FGID. In this article the author will illustrate her specific approach in a pediatric gastroenterology clinic with children and adolescents with FGIDs. Being a pediatric gastroenterologist, the author emphasizes the importance of a clear diagnosis, explains the rationale for educating the patient and his or her parents on the multi-factorial bio-psycho-social model and the concepts of chronic pain, discusses the specific settings and pitfalls for hypnosis treatment in children, and last but not least, provides some examples of hypnotic sessions used with FGIDs.

Nonspecific abdominal pain in pediatric primary care: evaluation and outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To describe the characteristics of children with nonspecific abdominal pain (AP) in primary care, their evaluation, and their outcomes.

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2009, a retrospective cohort of children from 5 primary care practices was followed from an index visit with AP until a well-child visit 6 to 24 months later (outcome visit). Using International Classification of Disease, 9th Revision (ICD-9), codes and chart review, we identified afebrile children between 4 and 12 years old with AP. Use of diagnostic testing was assessed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model the association of index visit clinical and demographic variables with persistent pain at the outcome visit, and receipt of a specific diagnosis.

RESULTS

Three hundred seventy-five children presented with AP, representing 1% of the total population of 4- to 12-year-olds during the study period. Eighteen percent of children had persistent pain, and 70% of the study cohort never received a specific diagnosis for their pain. Seventeen percent and 14% of children had laboratory and radiology testing at the index visit, respectively. Only 3% of laboratory evaluations helped to yield a diagnosis. Among variables considered, only preceding pain of more than 7 days at the index visit was associated with persistent pain (odds ratio 2.15, 95% confidence interval 1.19-3.89). None of the variables considered was associated with receiving a specific diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Most children with AP do not receive a diagnosis, many have persistent pain, and very few receive a functional AP diagnosis. Results support limited use of diagnostic testing and conservative management consistent with national policy statements.

Childhood functional abdominal pain: mechanisms and management

Chronic abdominal pain is one of the most common clinical syndromes encountered in day to day clinical paediatric practice. Although common, its definition is confusing, predisposing factors are poorly understood and the pathophysiological mechanisms are not clear. The prevailing viewpoint in the pathogenesis involves the inter-relationship between changes in hypersensitivity and altered motility, to which several risk factors have been linked. Making a diagnosis of functional abdominal pain can be a challenge, as it is unclear which further diagnostic tests are necessary to exclude an organic cause. Moreover, large, well-performed, high-quality clinical trials for effective agents are lacking, which undermines evidence-based treatment. This Review summarizes current knowledge regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors and diagnostic work-up of functional abdominal pain. Finally, management options for children with functional abdominal pain are discussed including medications, dietary interventions, probiotics and psychological and complementary therapies, to improve understanding and to maximize the quality of care for children with this condition.

Chronic idiopathic nausea of childhood

OBJECTIVES

To compare children with primary, chronic idiopathic nausea to those with secondary nausea associated with functional abdominal pain.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review of 45 children with a primary complaint of chronic nausea several times per week. Comparisons were made to prospectively collected data on 49 children with functional abdominal pain and comorbid nausea.

RESULTS

The majority of those affected were adolescent Caucasian females. Subjects with chronic nausea had a more severe presentation with daily 88% (vs 26%) and constant 60% (vs 10%) nausea (P < .001), one-half with peak morning intensity. In the chronic nausea group, 62% had migraines, and 71% (vs 22%) had familial migraines (P < .001), 36% had postural tachycardia syndrome and 27% cyclic vomiting syndrome. Both groups suffered comorbid symptoms (anxiety, dizziness, fatigue, and sleep problems). The chronic nausea cohort underwent extensive, negative medical evaluations.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic idiopathic nausea of childhood is a poorly described symptom. Patients with primary (vs secondary) chronic nausea were more likely Caucasian, older adolescent females with severe, daily nausea and comorbid conditions such as anxiety, dizziness, and fatigue as well as significantly more migraine features. Chronic nausea is a major, disabling symptom that requires increased recognition as a separate functional entity. Future studies may need to focus on comorbid conditions including migraine and dysautonomia.

Eosinophils and mast cells as therapeutic targets in pediatric functional dyspepsia

There is an increasing appreciation for the importance of inflammation as a pathophysiologic entity that contributes to functional gastrointestinal disorders including functional dyspepsia (FD). Importantly, inflammation may serve as a mediator between psychologic and physiologic functions. This manuscript reviews the literature implicating two inflammatory cell types, mast cells and eosinophils, in the generation of dyspeptic symptoms and explores their potential as targets for the treatment of FD. There are a number of inciting events which may initiate an inflammatory response, and the subsequent recruitment and activation of mast cells and eosinophils. These include internal triggers such as stress and anxiety, as well as external triggers such as microbes and allergens. Previous studies suggest that there may be efficacy in utilizing medications directed at mast cells and eosinophils. Evidence exists to suggest that combining “anti-inflammatory” medications with other treatments targeting stress can improve the rate of symptom resolution in pediatric FD.

Test of the child/adolescent Rome III criteria: agreement with physician diagnosis and daily symptoms

BACKGROUND

Establishment of the Rome criteria advanced diagnosis of children with Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. The criteria were overhauled in 2006, but these revisions were never systematically tested. The aim of the current study was to assess psychometric properties of the childhood Rome III criteria and determine how well they agree with physician diagnoses and daily symptoms.

METHODS

A total of N = 135 families from two pediatric gastroenterology clinics completed the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms (QPGS- RIII). Half of the families completed the QPGS-RIII again in 2 weeks, the other half completed 2-week daily diaries. Children above the age of 10 also provided data (N = 64). Physician diagnoses were obtained from the medical records.

KEY RESULTS

Diagnoses: The most common diagnoses per child/parent report were Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS; 43-47%) and Abdominal Migraine (26-36%). The most frequent physician diagnoses were Functional Constipation (FC; 53%) and Functional Abdominal Pain (FAP; 29%). Reliability: Moderate to substantial agreement was found between baseline and 2-week follow-up for most diagnoses (kappa = .19-.78) and between parent and child reports (kappa = -.04-.64).

VALIDITY

There was low agreement between QPGS-RIII and physician diagnosis (kappa =-.02-.34) as well as diaries (kappa = .06-30).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

The Rome criteria have reasonable test-retest reliability and seem to be inclusive, as the majority of children obtain a diagnosis. However, validity is still an issue: The Rome criteria do not overlap well with physician diagnosis or daily symptoms. These issues will need to be addressed in future revisions of the Rome criteria.

Schmerzbehandlung

Zwar lassen sich die meisten abdominalen Schmerzen lokalisieren, allerdings ist der Ort des stärksten Schmerzes nicht unbedingt identisch mit dem Ort der Schmerzentstehung. Dennoch empfiehlt sich zur Schmerzlokalisation ein systematisches Vorgehen, das – je nach klinischer Erfahrung des Untersuchers und der Akutheit des Geschehens – selbstverständlich auch abgekürzt werden kann: Zunächst wird davon ausgegangen, dass Schmerzlokalisation und Ort der Schmerzentstehung identisch sind. Es sind entsprechende gezielte Untersuchungsmaßnahmen einzuleiten (klinische Untersuchung, klinisch-chemische Diagnostik, Bildgebung). Ab dem Schulalter kann die angegebene Schmerzqualität wertvolle Hinweise auf die Schmerzursache geben. Ergeben sich keine Hinweise auf die zugrunde liegende (lokale) Schmerzursache, wird der Blick mehr auf diejenigen inneren Organe gerichtet, die über die Head- Zonen mit dem Ort der Schmerzlokalisation korrespondieren. Wird man auch hier nicht fündig, muss an eine Läsion im Verlauf der Afferenz gedacht werden. Übrig bleiben schließlich idiopathische Schmerzen, bei denen der Schmerz selbst die Krankheit darstellt und keine zu behandelnden Ursachen aufzufinden sind (Migräne, funktionelle Bauchschmerzen etc.). Davon abzugrenzen sind noch definierte kinderpsychiatrische Krankheiten, die mit Schmerzen einhergehen können.

A prospective, randomized, double-blind study comparing the efficacy of diltiazem, glyceryl trinitrate, and lidocaine for the treatment of anal fissure in children

PURPOSE

Anal fissure (AF) is a common perianal condition in children. Although adult patients with AF have been treated successfully using diltiazem, it has not been studied in children. The present randomized, prospective, double-blind study assessed the response, side effects, and recurrence of diltiazem.

METHODS

Ninety-three children with AF were randomly divided into three groups. Each group received topical ointment. Group GTN received 0.2% glyceryl trinitrate, group L received 10% lidocaine, and group D received 2% diltiazem ointment.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients completed the 12-month study. At the end of the first 8-week course, the healing rate in group D was significantly higher than that of the other groups (p < 0.0001, χ (2) = 19.82). Nonresponders received a second course of the same treatment. Group D showed significantly higher healing rates than the other groups (p < 0.05, χ (2) = 7.227) at the end of the second 8-week course. The group D recurrence rate was significantly different than that of the other groups (p < 0. 002, χ (2) = 12.79).

CONCLUSION

Diltiazem application is effective and safe for the treatment of AF in children, and has a low recurrence rate. The smooth dose-concentration curve causes minimal side effects.

Recurrent abdominal pain in childhood

BACKGROUND

Chronic, recurrent abdominal pain is common among children and adolescents. It interferes with everyday life, causes absence from school, and leads to frequent medical consultations, often involving burdensome diagnostic testing and protracted attempts at treatment.

METHOD

Selective review of the literature.

RESULTS

Organic causes should be ruled out with a thorough medical history and physical examination and a small number of laboratory tests. The pediatric Rome III criteria include valid diagnostic criteria for functional abdominal pain in childhood. The available data imply that this condition is best treated with cognitive behavioral therapy, rather than with medications or dietary measures.

CONCLUSION

A systematic approach to chronic recurrent abdominal pain in children and adolescents is key to ruling out organic diseases while avoiding unnecessary tests and treatments.