Childhood functional abdominal pain: mechanisms and management

Deciphering nociplastic pain: clinical features, risk factors and potential mechanisms

Nociplastic pain is a mechanistic term used to describe pain that arises or is sustained by altered nociception, despite the absence of tissue damage. Although nociplastic pain has distinct pathophysiology from nociceptive and neuropathic pain, these pain mechanisms often coincide within individuals, which contributes to the intractability of chronic pain. Key symptoms of nociplastic pain include pain in multiple body regions, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction, depression and anxiety. Individuals with nociplastic pain are often diffusely tender - indicative of hyperalgesia and/or allodynia - and are often more sensitive than others to non-painful sensory stimuli such as lights, odours and noises. This Review summarizes the risk factors, clinical presentation and treatment of nociplastic pain, and describes how alterations in brain function and structure, immune processing and peripheral factors might contribute to the nociplastic pain phenotype. This article concludes with a discussion of two proposed subtypes of nociplastic pain that reflect distinct neurobiological features and treatment responsivity.

Role of Probiotics in the Treatment and Prevention of Common Gastrointestinal Conditions in Children

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts. Although recommendations for probiotic use should be strain-specific, many systematic reviews, including recommendations from different societies, recommend probiotic use in general, providing no relevant information for healthcare professionals regarding which probiotic to recommend for which clinical indication, at what dose, and for how long. This narrative review aimed to present the available evidence on the use of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of common gastrointestinal diseases in children, considering the strain and dose used. Furthermore, this study summarizes the evidence on the possible side effects and quality of products containing probiotics.

The Use of Pictograms in the Evaluation of Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders in Children

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether the use of pictograms improves symptom evaluation for children with functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs).

STUDY DESIGN

This survey study was conducted in 2 academic centers and included patients aged 8-18 years visiting the outpatient clinic for FAPD symptom evaluation. Patients were randomized to fill out the questionnaire without or with accompanying pictograms to assess gastrointestinal symptoms. Afterwards, patients underwent clinical health assessment by the healthcare professional (HCP). Subsequently, the HCP filled out the same questionnaire without pictograms, while blinded to the questionnaire completed by the patient. Primary outcome was the level of agreement between identified symptoms as assessed by patients and HCP.

RESULTS

We included 144 children (questionnaire without accompanying pictograms [n = 82] and with accompanying pictograms [n = 62]). Overall agreements rates were not significantly different (without pictograms median, 70% vs with pictograms median, 70%). Accompanying pictograms did not significantly improve the assessment of abdominal pain symptoms. Accompanying pictograms were beneficial for concordance rates for nausea and vomiting symptoms (without pictograms median, 67% vs with pictograms median, 100%; P = .047). Subgroup analyses for children aged 8-12 years of age revealed similar results (concordance on the presence of nausea and vomiting without pictograms median, 67% vs with pictograms median, 100%; P = .015). Subgroup analyses for children ages 12-18 years showed no significant differences in concordance rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Pictograms do not seem to improve the assessment of FAPDs. However, the use of pictograms improves the evaluation of nausea and vomiting, especially for children aged 8-12 years. Therefore, HCPs could consider using pictograms in that setting during consultations.

Cognitive behavioural therapy for functional abdominal pain disorders in children and adolescents: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

AIM

Although Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) potentially holds efficacy in addressing functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) amongst children and adolescents, the persistent efficacy is uncertain.

METHODS

We searched three databases to identify related randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan and Stata. Subgroup analyses were mainly conducted based on follow-up time. The GRADE approach was used to evaluate the certainty of the evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 14 RCTs evaluating 858 patients were included. All RCTs were rated as having a high risk of bias. Compared with control groups, CBT was associated with improvement of general functional impairment (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.77, 95% CI [-1.12, -0.42], p < 0.05), higher treatment success (relative risk (RR) = 2.35, 95% CI [1.50, 3.69], p < 0.05), improvement of abdominal pain symptoms (SMD = -0.48, 95% CI [-0.73, -0.23], p < 0.05), QoL (SMD = 0.42, 95% CI [0.20, 0.64], p < 0.05), and psychological states (SMD = -0.95, 95% CI [-1.62, -0.27], p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis provides low to moderate quality evidence that CBT could significantly improve clinical outcomes and QoL for children and adolescents with FAPDs with improvement persisting until short-term follow-up. However, there were discrepancies regarding CBT's effects at mid- and long-term follow-up across different outcomes. More high-quality and longer-duration studies are thus warranted to explore the effectiveness of CBT in the future.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION ON PROSPERO

CRD42022369353.

Home-based guided hypnotherapy for children with functional abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome in primary care: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Children often present to primary care with functional abdominal pain (FAP) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and around half still have abdominal complaints 1 year later. Hypnotherapy is an evidence-based treatment that is used in specialist care, but it lacks evidence in primary care. This study will investigate the (cost) effectiveness of home-based guided hypnotherapy for children with FAP or IBS in primary care.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We report the design of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial among children aged 7-17 years, diagnosed with FAP or IBS by their general practitioner (GP), with assessments over 12 months. The control group will receive care as usual (CAU) by their GP (eg, communication, education and reassurance), while the intervention group will receive CAU plus 3 months of home-based guided hypnotherapy via a website. The primary outcome will be the proportion of children with adequate relief from abdominal pain/discomfort at 12 months, analysed on an intention-to-treat basis. Secondary outcomes will include the adequacy of pain relief at 3 and 6 months, pain/discomfort severity, pain frequency and intensity, daily functioning and impact on function, anxiety and depression, pain beliefs, sleep disturbances, school absence, somatisation, and healthcare use and costs. We must include 200 children to determine a 20% difference in those with adequate relief (55% control vs 75% intervention).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The Medical Ethics Review Committee of the University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands, approved this study (METc2020/237). The results will be disseminated to patients, GPs and other stakeholders via email, a dedicated website, peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences. We plan to collaborate with the Dutch Society of GPs to implement the results in clinical practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05636358.

Early life events in functional abdominal pain disorders in children

Objectives

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) are common gastrointestinal problems in children, and the pathophysiology is thought to be multifactorial. Adverse early life events (ELE) induce alterations in the central nervous system, perhaps predisposing individuals to develop FAPDs. We aimed to study the potential adverse ELE that are associated with FAPDs.

Methods

We steered a school-based survey involving 1000 children from 4 randomly selected schools. FAPDs were assessed using the translated Rome III questionnaire, and ELE were identified using a pre-tested, parental questionnaire. FAPDs were diagnosed using the Rome III criteria.

Results

Hundred and eighty-two (182) children had FAPDs (62.1% girls, mean age 8.5, SD 2.1). ELE of them were compared with 571 children without FAPDs (51.1% girls, mean age 8.8, SD 1.9). According to the binary logistic regression analysis, family members with abdominal pain, family member with chronic pain other than abdominal pain, prenatal maternal complications and interventional deliveries, were recognized as potential risk factors for the development of FAPDs. Breast feeding over two years has shown to reduce the prevalence of FAPDs.a.

Conclusions

Prenatal maternal medical problems are associated a with higher prevalence of FAPDs later in life. Prolonged breastfeeding and normal vaginal delivery could be considered as factors that reduce the vulnerability of developing FAPDs in children. Therefore, minimizing pregnancy-related complications, encouraging vaginal deliveries, and encouraging breastfeeding are potentially valuable measures to prevent FAPDs during childhood.

Diet and Pediatric Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Mediterranean Countries

Background: The increased intake of FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyol) rich foods has been suggested as a possible trigger of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). Despite the high FODMAP content, the Mediterranean diet (MD) appears to have beneficial effects on health. Our aim was to evaluate whether the prevalence of FGIDs in different Mediterranean countries may be influenced by FODMAP consumption and adherence to the MD. Methods: A school-based, cross-sectional, multicenter study was performed in six countries in the Mediterranean area: Croatia, Greece, Israel, Italy, Macedonia, and Serbia. Subjects 4-18 years were examined in relation to their eating habits and the presence of FGIDs, using Rome IV criteria, 3-day food diaries and Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in Children and Adolescents (KIDMED) questionnaires. Results: We enrolled 1972 subjects between 4 and 9 years old (Group A), and 2450 subjects between 10 and 18 years old (Group B). The overall prevalence of FGIDs was 16% in Group A and 26% in Group B. FODMAP intake was significantly different among countries for both age groups. In both groups, no significant association was found between FGIDs and FODMAPs. Adherence to the MD in all countries was intermediate, except for Serbia, where it was low. In both groups, we found a statistically significant association between FGIDs and the KIDMED score (Group A: OR = 0.83, p < 0.001; Group B: OR = 0.93, p = 0.005). Moreover, a significant association was found between the KIDMED score and functional constipation (Group A: OR = 0.89, p = 0.008; Group B: OR = 0.93, p = 0.010) and postprandial distress syndrome (Group A: OR = 0.86, p = 0.027; Group B: OR = 0.88, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Our data suggest that the prevalence of FGIDs in the Mediterranean area is not related to FODMAP consumption, whereas adherence to the MD seems to have a protective effect.

Dietary interventions for functional abdominal pain disorders in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) are common among children and are associated with decreased quality of life and school attendance. Several dietary interventions have been suggested to improve symptoms of FAPDs. This systematic review assessed the efficacy and safety of dietary interventions for pediatric FAPDs.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Electronic databases were searched (inception-October 2021). Systematic reviews or RCTs were included if children (4-18 years) with FAPDs were treated with dietary interventions and compared to placebo, no diet or any other diet. Data extraction and assessment of quality of evidence based on GRADE system was independently performed by two review authors. Outcomes were treatment success, pain intensity and frequency, and withdrawal due to adverse events.

RESULTS

Twelve articles were included, representing data of 819 pediatric FAPD patients. Trials investigating fibers, FODMAP diet, fructans, fructose-restricted diet, prebiotic (inulin), serum-derived bovine immunoglobulin, and vitamin D supplementation were included. We found very low-certainty evidence that the use of fibers leads to higher treatment success (NNT = 5).

CONCLUSION

Based on current evidence, the use of fibers can be discussed in daily practice. High-quality intervention trials are highly needed to investigate if other dietary interventions are effective in the treatment of pediatric FAPD.

Prophylactic Therapy Response in Children with Abdominal Migraine: A Single Centre Experience in Oman

PURPOSE

Abdominal migraine (AM) is a very common functional gastrointestinal disorder in children. This study reports the clinical features and response of AM to prophylactic treatment in children.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted between January 2010 and December 2019 at the Royal Hospital in the Sultanate of Oman. This study included children aged ≤ 13 years with a diagnosis of AM based on the Rome IV criteria for functional diagnoses. Clinical, demographic, and treatment data were collected.

RESULTS

Seventy-four children were identified, of which 43 were eligible for inclusion in this study. The median age at the onset of symptoms was 7 years (range, 2-12 years). The most frequent symptoms were headache (81.4%), nausea (79.1%), and vomiting (72.1%). Of the total cohort, 46.5%, 23.3%, and 6.9% received riboflavin, pizotifen, and propranolol monotherapy, respectively. Combination therapy was also used; 16.3% of children received pizotifen and propranolol, 4.7% received riboflavin and pizotifen, and 2.3% received riboflavin and propranolol. Patients treated with propranolol monotherapy showed 100% clinical improvement and those treated with riboflavin or pizotifen monotherapy showed 90% clinical improvement. Response to combination therapy with pizotifen and propranolol was 71.4%, and with riboflavin and pizotifen was 100%. In addition, treatment response was significantly associated with the presence of vomiting (p=0.039).

CONCLUSION

We found a favorable response to various modalities and combination treatments with riboflavin, pizotifen, and propranolol in children with AM. In addition, the presence of vomiting may predict treatment response.

Hyperuricosuria and hypercalciuria, probable etiologies of functional abdominal pain: A case-control study

BACKGROUND

Functional abdominal pain (FAP) is a common complaint causing several referrals to pediatricians. On the other hand, the most common presentation of hyperuricosuria and also hypercalciuria is chronic/recurrent abdominal pain. Therefore, a hypothesis has been raised; abdominal pain due to hyperuricosuria and/or hypercalciuria may be misdiagnosed as FAP. The current study has aimed to respond to this theory.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a case-control study conducted on children diagnosed with FAP based on Rome IV criteria and age-matched normal controls. Blood and random urine samples were taken from healthy children and those with FAP. Random urine samples were examined for calcium, uric acid, oxalate, and creatinine concentrations. Random urine calcium to urine creatinine above 0.2 mg/mg was considered hypercalciuria and random urine uric acid above 0.56 mg/dl, GFR as hyperuricosuria. The data were analyzed using logistic models.

RESULTS

Hypercalciuric children had a significantly lower chance of FAP (odds ratio [OR] =0.425, 95% confidence interval [CI] =0.204-0.886). Although an inverse association was seen between hyperuricosuria and FAP (OR = 0.693, 95% CI = 0.395-1.214), it was not statistically significant. In stratified analyses by gender for both hyperuricosuria and hypercalciuria, a marginal inverse significant association was seen in male gender (P < 0.1).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that hypercalciuria is significantly in inverse association with FAP but not hyperuricosuria. Therefore, these disorders, particularly hyperuricosuria may not be considered as the possible causes of FAP. Further studies with larger sample size for providing more reliable evidence are recommended.

Importance of sleep quality in functional abdominal pain disorder in pediatric patients

The incidence of sleep problems is increasing in children, and they are thought to contribute to pain in functional abdominal pain disorder (FAPD). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the pattern of sleep disturbance in children with FAPD and identify the associated factors. We retrospectively analyzed patients aged 12-18 years who were diagnosed with FAPD based on the Rome IV criteria. To assess sleep problems, we used the Korean version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI-K). To evaluate factors associated with sleep disturbances, we used the odds ratios (OR) estimated in logistic regression models. Among the 66 patients evaluated, 57.6% (38/66) had a total PSQI-K score > 5, indicating a significant disturbance in sleep, 52.6% (20/38) had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and 47.4% (18/38) had functional abdominal pain-not otherwise specified. The mean PSQI-K score was 7.2 ± 6.0, and longer sleep onset latency was noted (26.33 ± 19.44 min) in all patients than healthy controls. Almost all PSQI-K subscales scores were elevated in patients with IBS. In univariate analysis, abdominal pain score > 7 and IBS were associated with poor sleep quality. In multivariate analysis, only IBS was associated with sleep disturbance. A relatively large proportion of patients with FAPD had sleep problems and these were more common in patients with IBS. Thus, interventions for improving sleep quality should also be considered in patients with FAPD with severe abdominal pain and IBS.

Current treatment practice of functional abdominal pain disorders in children: A multicenter survey

BACKGROUND

Approximately 90% of the children with chronic abdominal pain are diagnosed as having functional abdominal pain disorder (FAPD). The Dutch guideline "functional abdominal pain" provides a stepwise approach to treat FAPD. The aim of this survey was twofold first, to determine adherence to the Dutch guideline, and second to determine current management of FAPDs in clinical practice.

METHODS

A multicenter survey was designed. The survey was sent to pediatricians and pediatric residents in December 2020. The study ran from October 2020 until March 2021. Participants in ten hospitals in the western region of The Netherlands were invited to complete this survey. Respondents who indicated not to treat children with FAPDs or respondents who completed less than 3 steps of the survey were excluded.

RESULTS

In total, 85/174 (48.9%) respondents completed the survey. We included 80 respondents, 68 pediatricians and 12 pediatric residents, for analysis. Overall, self-reported guideline adherence was 85%. Self-reported adherence was higher than actual adherence. Only 50% of all respondents followed the first three steps of the guideline. The reported non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments were diverse and varied between different age groups. The average follow-up duration was between 2 and 6 months, and the most regularly used outcome measures were attendance at school, quality of life, and adequate pain relief/reassurance.

CONCLUSION

We reportedly observed a large variation in the management of children with FAPDs, due to low guideline adherence among clinicians. Improved guideline adherence may be accomplished by updating the guideline with specific recommendations per subtype, follow-up and outcome measures as well measures to improve guideline implementation.

Pharmacologic Treatment in Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders in Children: A Systematic Review

CONTEXT

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) are common in childhood, impacting quality of life and school attendance. There are several compounds available for the treatment of pediatric FAPDs, but their efficacy and safety are unclear because of a lack of head-to-head randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the efficacy and safety of the pharmacologic treatments available for pediatric FAPDs.

DATA SOURCES

Electronic databases were searched from inception to February 2021.

STUDY SELECTION

RCTs or systematic reviews were included if the researchers investigated a study population of children (4-18 years) in whom FAPDs were treated with pharmacologic interventions and compared with placebo, no treatment, or any other agent.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two reviewers independently performed data extraction and assessed their quality. Any interresearcher disagreements in the assessments were resolved by a third investigator.

RESULTS

Seventeen articles representing 1197 children with an FAPD were included. Trials investigating antispasmodics, antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistaminic, antiemetic, histamine-2-receptor antagonist, 5-HT4-receptor agonist, melatonin, and buspirone were included. No studies were found on treatment with laxatives, antidiarrheals, analgesics, antimigraines, and serotonergics.

LIMITATIONS

The overall quality of evidence on the basis of the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations system was very low to low.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of current evidence, it is not possible to recommend any specific pharmacologic agent for the treatment of pediatric FAPDs. However, agents such as antispasmodics or antidepressants can be discussed in daily practice because of their favorable treatment outcomes and the lack of important side effects. High-quality RCTs are necessary to provide adequate pharmacologic treatment. For future intervention trials, we recommend using homogenous outcome measures and instruments, a large sample size, and long-term follow-up.

The Use of Fecal Calprotectin Testing in Paediatric Disorders: A Position Paper of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Gastroenterology Committee

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to review the evidence regarding the clinical use and value of fecal calprotectin (FC) measurements in different gastrointestinal disorders in children.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in the PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases until October 31, 2019. Subtopics were identified and each assigned to individual authors.

RESULTS

A total of 28 recommendations were voted on using the nominal voting technique. Recommendations are given related to sampling, measurement methods, and results interpretation. The 14 authors anonymously voted on each recommendation using a 9-point scale (1 strongly disagree to 9 fully agree). Consensus was considered achieved if at least 75% of the authors voted 6, 7, 8, or 9.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus was reached for all recommendations. Limitations for the use of FC in clinical practice include variability in extraction methodology, performance of test kits as well as the need to establish local reference ranges because of the influence of individual factors, such as age, diet, microbiota, and drugs. The main utility of FC measurement at present is in the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as well as to differentiate it from functional gastrointestinal disorders (FAPDs). FC, however, has neither utility in the diagnosis of infantile colic nor to differentiate between functional and organic constipation. A rise in FC concentration, may alert to the risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis and help identifying gastrointestinal involvement in children with Henoch-Schönlein purpura. FC measurement is of little value in Cow's Milk Protein Allergy, coeliac disease (CD), and cystic fibrosis. FC does neither help to distinguish bacterial from viral acute gastroenteritis (AGE), nor to diagnose Helicobacter Pylori infection, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), acute appendicitis (AA), or intestinal polyps.

Treatment strategies for anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome in children: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) is a frequently overlooked cause of chronic abdominal pain in children. Currently, both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options are available to treat this disease. The objective was to give insight into the success rate of different treatment strategies for children with ACNES, and provide treatment recommendations for physicians based on the published evidence.

METHOD

A literature search of PubMed, Embase.com and the Wiley/Cochrane Library was conducted for studies published up to 25 February 2020. Randomized controlled trials, prospective or retrospective cohort studies, meta-analyses and literature reviews describing the outcome of different treatment strategies for children (<18 years old) with ACNES with a follow-up duration of at least four weeks were included.

RESULTS

Six studies, involving 224 patients, were included with an overall quality reported to be between fair and poor. Treatment success of local injections with an anesthetic agent into the trigger point ranged from 38% to 87% with a follow-up ranging from 4 weeks to 39 months. In addition, treatment success of anterior neurectomy ranged from 86% to 100%, with a follow-up duration ranging from 4 weeks to 36 months.

CONCLUSION

A step-up treatment strategy should be applied when treating pediatric patients with ACNES. This strategy starts with an injection with a local anesthetic agent, reserving surgery (anterior neurectomy) as a viable option in case of persistent pain.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Functional abdominal pain disorders and asthma: two disorders, but similar pathophysiology?

INTRODUCTION

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) and asthma are common ailments affecting both children and adults worldwide. Multiple studies have demonstrated an association between these two disorders. However, the exact reason for this observed association is not apparent.

AREAS COVERED

The current review has explored available literature and outlined multiple underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, common to both asthma and FAPDs, as possible reasons for this association.

EXPERT OPINION

Smooth muscle dysfunction, hypersensitivity and hyper-responsiveness, mucosal inflammation, and barrier dysfunction involving gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts are the main underlying pathophysiological mechanisms described for the generation of symptoms in FAPDs and asthma. In addition, alterations in neuroendocrine regulatory functions, immunological dysfunction, and microbial dysbiosis have been described in both disorders. We believe that the pathophysiological processes that were explored in this article would be able to expand the mechanisms of the association. The in-depth knowledge is needed to be converted to therapeutic and preventive strategies to improve the quality of care of children suffering from FAPDs and asthma.

The association between ADHD and physical health: a co-twin control study

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been associated with increased risk for physical comorbidity. This study used a twin cohort to investigate the association between physical diseases and phenotypic variations of ADHD. A twin cohort enriched for ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions were analysed. The Attention Problems subscale of the Child Behavior Checklist/Adult Behavior Checklist (CBCL/ABCL-AP) was used to measure the participants’ severity of ADHD symptoms. Physical health issues were obtained with a validated questionnaire and were tested in relation to ADHD symptom severity in a co-twin control model. Neurological problems were significantly associated with a diagnosis of ADHD. A conditional model for the analysis of within-twin pair effects revealed an inverse association between digestive problems and the severity of ADHD symptoms, after adjusting for co-existing autism spectrum disorder and ADHD medications. Our findings suggest that individuals with ADHD are susceptible to neurological problems, why a thorough neurological check-up is indicated in clinical practice for this population. In addition, health conditions of digestive system could be considered as a non-shared environmental factor for behavioral phenotypes in ADHD. It supports the possible role of gut-brain axis in the underpinnings of ADHD symptoms, at least for a subgroup of individuals with certain genetic predisposition.

A questionnaire-based assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Children commonly report gastrointestinal symptoms. Limited evidence suggests that children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) report more gastrointestinal symptoms than healthy children without diabetes. The aim of this study was to ascertain the pattern and severity gastrointestinal symptoms reported by children with diabetes and healthy children without diabetes.

METHODS

After recruitment, children (less than 16 years of age) with type 1 diabetes and healthy control children reported their recent gastrointestinal symptoms using a short questionnaire. A five-point Likert scale was utilised to grade the severity of each symptom and an overall symptom score for each child was derived.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty cases (88% of eligible population) and 94 controls completed the questionnaire. Both groups had similarly high rates of any gastrointestinal symptom [80% of controls vs. 85% cases, OR 1.5 (95% CI: 0.7-3.1)]. Children with diabetes had higher mean scores for abdominal pain (1.3 vs. 1.0, P=0.02) and reflux (0.4 vs. 0.20, P=0.02). Cases also had a higher overall mean score than controls (4.9 vs. 3.4, P=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, gastrointestinal symptoms were reported at the same frequency by both groups of children. However, the children with diabetes had more severe symptoms, especially those of reflux and abdominal pain. The reasons for these differences remain to be elucidated.

Age and pain score before gastrointestinal endoscopies in children are predictors for post procedure pain

Background

Gastrointestinal endoscopy may be associated with pain and anxiety. Predictors for high pain scores after endoscopies in children are not known. The aim of our study was to identify risk factors for prolonged recovery and higher pain scores after gastrointestinal endoscopy in children.

Methods

All the children that were electively admitted for gastrointestinal endoscopies were included. We retrospectively collected demographic, clinical and endoscopic data as well as information on the recovery process. A numerical rating scale and the Faces, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability Scale were used for pain scoring.

Results

During the study period (01/2016–10/2016), 284 children (median age 10.7 years, interquartile range 6.7–14.8) were recruited. In a univariate analysis, older age, higher pre-procedure pain scores, longer procedure durations, higher number of biopsies and longer recovery duration were associated with higher post-procedure pain scores. In a multivariate analysis higher pain scores before the procedure (OR 12.42, 95% CI 3.67–42, P < 0.001) and older age (OR 1.016, 95% CI 1.007–1.025, P < 0.001) were associated with higher pain scores after the procedure. Children with a higher pain score before the procedure also had a longer recovery period (OR 5.28, 95% CI (1.93–14.49), P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Older age and higher pain score before the procedure were identified as predictors for higher pain score after pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopies. Children with these risk factors should be identified before the procedure in order to personalize their post-procedure management.

Does Social Exclusion Alter Sensory and Pain Thresholds in Children and Adolescents with Functional Abdominal Pain? - Results from a Preliminary Study

OBJECTIVE

Functional abdominal pain (AP) is a prevalent issue in childhood and adolescence. The contribution of psychosocial factors in the development and maintenance of this health problem is rather unclear, and experimental studies about underlying mechanisms are lacking. This study investigates whether experimentally induced social exclusion decreases sensory and pain thresholds in children suffering from AP.

SUBJECTS

Twenty children/adolescents with AP and 22 healthy controls.

METHODS

Children/adolescents participated in the Cyberball paradigm, which affects an experience of social exclusion. Thermal sensory and pain thresholds were measured before and after Cyberball.

RESULTS

Children/adolescents with AP showed a divergent reaction regarding their sensory threshold after social exclusion: The control group exhibited a tendency toward a decreased sensory threshold whereas the AP group remained stable. Concerning the pain threshold, no effect of social exclusion could be identified. The increase of both thresholds ("numbing") after Cyberball was positively correlated with symptoms of mental health issues.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to investigate changes in sensory and pain thresholds following painful social interactions in a sample of children/adolescents with a chronic pain condition. Results suggest that AP and control children differ in their reaction of sensory thresholds, which might indicate an altered processing of social exclusion. Replication and further methodological improvements are needed.

Fifty-eight-year-old female with abdominal migraine: A rare cause of episodic gastrointestinal disturbance in adults

Abdominal migraine (AM) is a predominantly pediatric condition characterized by erratic episodes of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting with spontaneous periodic relief. It should be considered as a differential diagnosis in symptomatic adults.

Self-reported specific learning disorders and risk factors among Hungarian adolescents with functional abdominal pain disorders: a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

Despite its increasing clinical significance and diagnostic challenges, little is known about functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) in Central-Eastern Europe. In this paper, the prevalence and potential sociodemographic correlates of FAPDs among Hungarian adolescents are explored.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, nationwide, questionnaire study in a representative sample of 657 adolescents has been conducted. With a response rate of 80.2%, 522/527 (99.1%) questionnaires were eligible for data analysis (N = 267, 51.1% girls, mean age 14.8, SD 2.4 years). The questionnaire included sociodemographic variables (age, sex, place of residence, marital status of the parents, family income, religion, educational level of parents), questions regarding self-reported specific learning disorders and the Questionnaire for Paediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rome ΙΙΙ Edition.

RESULTS

The prevalence of FAPDs was 11.9% (N = 62). FAPDs were significantly associated with female sex. Living in a county town showed a negative correlation with FAPD. Adolescents with self-reported arithmetic learning disorders had an 8.7-fold likelihood of FAPD (OR, 8.7; 95% CI (3.5-21.9). Adolescent girls reported pain in all subtypes of FAPDs more frequently than adolescent boys except functional abdominal pain syndrome. The most prevalent FAPD was abdominal migraine (N = 32, 6.1%), followed by irritable bowel syndrome (N = 24, 4.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of FAPDs in Hungary is similar to that reported worldwide, however, contrary to international data, abdominal migraine is the most frequently encountered FAPD in Hungary. In addition to well-known correlates of FAPDs, such as female sex and place of residence, arithmetic learning disorders have also been identified as correlating with the prevalence of FAPDs. Our results suggest culture-specific differences in the distribution of FAPDs, and confirm the significance of school performance indicators such as specific learning disorders as a correlate of FAPDs.

A Core Outcome Set for Clinical Trials in Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders

OBJECTIVE

To ensure consistency and reduce outcome measure reporting heterogeneity in clinical trials on pediatric functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs), a core outcome set (COS) was developed for pediatric FAPD trials.

STUDY DESIGN

A mixed-method 2-round Delphi technique was used and key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals (HCPs), patients with FAPD, and their parents were invited to participate. In the first round, key stakeholders identified outcomes of importance through an open-ended questionnaire. Outcomes mentioned by ≥10% of the participants were included in a shortlist. In the second round, this shortlist was rated and prioritized. During a consensus meeting with an expert panel, the final COS was defined.

RESULTS

The first round was completed by 152 of 210 (72%) HCPs, 103 (100%) parents, and 50 of 54 (93%) patients. A total of 104 from 167 (62%) HCPs, 102 (100%) parents, and 53 (100%) patients completed round 2. Pain intensity, pain frequency, quality of life, school attendance, anxiety/depression, adequate relief, defecation pattern (disease specific, irritable bowel syndrome), and adverse events were included in the final COS for FAPDs.

CONCLUSION

A set of 8 core outcomes has been identified that should minimally be measured in pediatric FAPD trials. Implementation of the use of this COS will increase comparison between studies and, therefore, improve management of children with FAPDs.

Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in European Infants and Toddlers

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in young children in a cross-sectional, multicenter study in Belgium, Italy, and The Netherlands.

STUDY DESIGN

Children were enrolled if they were age 0-48 months, attending a general pediatrician (Belgium, Italy) or a well-baby clinic (The Netherlands) for routine follow-up. Separate questionnaires were developed for infants age 0-12 months and for toddlers age 13-48 months. Questionnaires evaluated the clinical history, symptoms, sociodemographic information on the family, and exposure to stressful life events. FGIDs were defined according to Rome IV criteria.

RESULTS

In total 2751 children were included: 1698 infants age 0-12 months and 1053 children age 13-48 months. The prevalence of any FGID in infants age 0-12 months and 13-48 months was 24.7% and 11.3%, respectively. The most common disorders were infant regurgitation (13.8%) in infants and functional constipation (9.6%) in toddlers. Multivariable regression analyses demonstrated that younger age (P = .030) and formula feeding (P = .045) were associated with the prevalence of any FGID among infants. Country (Italy) (P = .033) and parents subjected to domestic violence (P = .035) were associated with the prevalence of any FGID in toddlers age 13-48 months.

CONCLUSIONS

FGIDs are common in a community sample of Western European infants and toddlers. Regurgitation is most prevalent in infants and functional constipation is most common in toddlers. Younger age, formula feeding, and domestic violence to parents are associated with the prevalence of FGIDs.

Higher prevalence of obesity among children with functional abdominal pain disorders

Background

Functional abdominal pain (FAP) disorders are one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in children. We aimed to define the association between obesity and functional abdominal pain (FAP) disorders and to assess differences between overweight/obese children and normal weight children with FAP disorders.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of children (2–18 years old) with a clinical diagnosis of FAP who were followed-up in our pediatric gastroenterology unit between 1/2016–10/2018. FAP disorders were defined according to the ROME IV criteria. Body mass index (BMI) percentiles were defined by CDC standards. Patients with BMIs ≥85th percentile were designated as being overweight/obese. A population control group was obtained from the 2015–2016 Israel national health survey.

Results

Data from 173 children with FAP disorders (median age 11.5 years, 114 females) were included. Seventy-one children (41%) were classified as having functional abdominal pain-NOS, 67 (38.7%) as having irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and 35 (20.2%) has having functional dyspepsia. Fifty-three children (30.6%) were classified as being overweight/obese.

Adolescents with FAP disorders had a significantly higher prevalence of overweight/obesity compared to controls (39.5% vs. 30%, respectively, p = 0.04). Children with FAP and overweight were older [12.4 (range 9.8–15.3) vs. 10.8 (7.4–14.1) years, p = 0.04] and had more hospitalizations due to FAP (20.8% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.01) compared to Children with FAP and normal weight.

Conclusions

Adolescents with FAP had higher prevalence of overweight/obesity compared to controls. Future studies are warranted to raise awareness of weight issues in FAP and determine the effect of weight loss on FAP.

Clinical Evaluation of Inflammatory and Blood Parameters in the Workup of Pediatric Chronic Abdominal Pain

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the additional value of blood parameters (hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate) to anti-tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG), fecal calprotectin, and Giardia lamblia when discriminating a functional from an organic cause in the clinical evaluation of children with chronic abdominal pain.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective cohort study included patients (4-18 years of age) with abdominal pain for >2 months. Data on hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anti-tTG, fecal calprotectin, alarm symptoms, and diagnosis were collected.

RESULTS

We identified 853 patients, of whom 102 (12%) had an organic disorder. Sensitivity and the area under the curve of strategy 1 (fecal calprotectin, anti-tTG, G lamblia, blood parameters) were 90% (95% CI, 83-95) and 0.87 (95% CI, 0.81-0.93), respectively, compared with 88% (95% CI, 81-93) and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.79-0.91), respectively, for strategy 2 (fecal calprotectin, anti-tTG, G lamblia) (P = NS). In the presence of ≥1 alarm symptoms, the sensitivity of strategies 1 and 2 was 92% (95% CI, 83-96) and 92% (95% CI, 83-96), and the areas under the curve were 0.93 (95% CI, 0.89-0.98) and 0.90 (95% CI, 0.84-0.97) (P = NS).

CONCLUSIONS

To distinguish between a functional and an organic cause for chronic abdominal pain, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate can be left out from the clinical evaluation as they might have no additional diagnostic yield. However, caution should be taken not to miss extraintestinal infections (2%).

Epidemiology of Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders and Functional Defecation Disorders in Adolescents in Curacao

OBJECTIVES

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) and functional defecation disorders (FDDs) are common in children and adolescents, but prevalence rates from the Caribbean are lacking. Therefore, our aim was to determine the prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs in adolescents in Curacao and to assess the influence of psychosocial factors on the prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs.

METHODS

The prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs in children and adolescents living in Curacao, ages 11 to 18 years, was assessed using the Rome IV Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders (RIV-QPGD). FAPDs and FDDs were diagnosed according to the Rome IV criteria. Sociodemographic characteristics, somatic symptoms, early adverse life events, stressful life events, and physical and emotional abuse were evaluated as associated factors.

RESULTS

Out of 946 questionnaires distributed, 783 were included for further analysis. The mean age of adolescents was 14.7 years (±1.6) with 61.7% being girls. A total of 266 adolescents (34%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 30.7-37.5) met Rome IV criteria for at least 1 FAPD or FDD. Twenty-nine adolescents (3.7%) qualified for 2 functional gastrointestinal disorders. Functional constipation (18.6%) and irritable bowel syndrome (12.3%) were the most prevalent disorders. After multivariate logistic regression analyses, dizziness (odds ratio [OR] 1.84, 95% CI 1.28-2.64) was significantly associated with having a FAPD or FDD.

CONCLUSIONS

FAPDs and FDDs are common in adolescents in Curacao. Dizziness is associated with the presence of a FAPD or FDD.

Roles of Lactose and Fructose Malabsorption and Dietary Outcomes in Children Presenting with Chronic Abdominal Pain

Intolerance to lactose or fructose is frequently diagnosed in children with chronic abdominal pain (CAP). However, the causal relationship remains a matter of discussion. A cohort of 253 patients, aged 7–12 years, presenting with unexplained CAP received standardized diagnostics. Additional diagnostic tests were performed based on their medical history and physical and laboratory investigations. Fructose and lactose hydrogen breath tests (H₂BT) as well as empiric diagnostic elimination diets were performed in 135 patients reporting abdominal pain related to the consumption of lactose or fructose to evaluate carbohydrate intolerance as a potential cause of CAP. Carbohydrate malabsorption by H2BT was found in 55 (41%) out of 135 patients. An abnormal increase in H2BT was revealed in 30% (35/118) of patients after fructose consumption and in 18% (20/114) of patients after lactose administration. Forty-six percent (25/54) reported pain relief during a diagnostic elimination diet. In total, 17 patients had lactose malabsorption, 29 fructose malabsorption, and nine combined carbohydrate malabsorption. Carbohydrate intolerance as a cause of CAP was diagnosed at follow-up in only 18% (10/55) of patients with malabsorption after the elimination of the respective carbohydrate. Thus, carbohydrate malabsorption appears to be an incidental finding in children with functional abdominal pain disorders, rather than its cause. Therefore, testing of carbohydrate intolerance should only be considered in children with a strong clinical suspicion and with the goal to prevent long-term unnecessary dietary restrictions in children suffering from CAP.

Vitamin D Deficiency and Unclear Abdominal Pain in Patients from Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Background: Abdominal pain is one of the commonest symptoms in emergency departments (EDs). Diagnosis demands full attention and critical thinking, since many diseases manifest atypically and the consequences of overlooking the symptoms may be disastrous. Despite intensive diagnostic procedures, some cases remain elusive and unclear abdominal pain (UAP) is not infrequent. Emerging evidence supports the hypothesis that functional pain might be attributed to vitamin D deficiency (VDD). People with darker or covered skin are predisposed to developing VDD. Patients in Switzerland stemming from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are such a population. Aim: To identify cases with UAP in LMIC patients and to compare vitamin D status with a control group. Methods: A retrospective single-center case-control study was carried out from 1 January 2013 to 31 August 2016 in all adult patients (more than 16 years old) stemming from LMIC and presenting at the university ED of Bern with abdominal pain. Vitamin D status was retrieved from these cases when available. The control group consisted of patients without abdominal pain or metabolic diseases and was matched (1:1) to the cases for age, gender, body mass index, geographic distribution, and season of vitamin D estimation. Results: A total of 10,308 cases from LMIC were reported to the ED. In total, 223 cases were identified with UAP. The status of vitamin D was available for 27 patients; 27 matched individuals were subsequently retrieved for the control group. Women made up 56.7% of the UAP group and 43.3% of the control group. The most common origin of the LMIC subjects was southern Europe (20.4%), followed by southern Asia (16.7%) and Eastern Europe (13%). Fourteen UAP patients exhibited severe VDD (<25 nmol/L) versus one in the control group (p = 0.001). The difference remained significant if the patients were identified as having VDD (<50 nmol/L) or not (p = 0.024). Comparison of the means indicated that the UAP group had lower vitamin D levels than the control group (41.3 vs. 53.7 nmol/L, respectively), but this difference was marginal (p = 0.060) and not statistically significant. After adjustment for potential confounders, including gender, mean vitamin D levels remained non-significantly different between groups. In the sub-group analysis, vitamin D levels were lower in women than in men (p = 0.037), compared to the respective controls. Conclusion: This study showed for the first time that patients from LMIC who presented to ED with UAP displayed VDD. Validation from larger studies is warranted to evaluate the linkage of VDD with UAP.

Functional abdominal pain disorders in adolescents in Indonesia and their association with family related stress

Background

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPD) have been widely reported as a major group of gastrointestinal disorders across the world. This study describes the prevalence, related factors, symptomatology and its relationship to emotional stress in Indonesian adolescents.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. Adolescents aged 10 to 17 years from nine randomly selected state schools from five districts of Jakarta, Indonesia, were invited to participate. A translated and validated Rome-III self-administered-questionnaire was used to collect data on gastrointestinal symptoms. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, intestinal as well as extra-intestinal symptoms, and exposure to stressful life events were also collected using a separate validated questionnaire.

Results

A total of 1813 questionnaires were included in the analysis [males 739 (40.8%) mean age of 13.54 years + 0.89]. Of them, 209 children (11.5%) fulfilled Rome III criteria of FAPD. Functional abdominal pain (FAP) was reported as the most prevalent subtype (5.8%), followed by functional dyspepsia (3.3%), irritable bowel syndrome (2%) and abdominal migraine (0.4%). The prevalence was higher in girls (p < 0.05) and those exposed to family-related stressful life events (p < 0.05). They include divorce or separation of parents (adjusted OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.75–3.7, p = < 0.001), death of a close family member (adjusted OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.39–3.59, P = 0.001), and father’s alcoholism (adjusted OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.22–3.1, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

FAPD are common paediatric entities among Indonesian adolescents with a prevalence of 11.5%. FAPD were noted to be higher in girls and adolescents exposed to family-related stressful life events.

Definitions of Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders and Outcome Measures: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review definitions of functional abdominal pain orders (FAPDs) and outcome measures used in therapeutic randomized controlled trials in pediatric FAPDs adhering to the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology recommendations.

STUDY DESIGN

Cochrane, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cinahl databases were systematically searched from inception to April 2018. English-written therapeutic randomized controlled trials concerning FAPDs in children aged 4-18 years were included. Definitions of FAPDs, interventions, outcome measures, measurement instruments, and outcome assessors of each study were tabulated descriptively. Quality was assessed using the Delphi List.

RESULTS

A total of 4771 articles were found, of which 64 articles were included (n = 25, 39% of high methodologic quality). The Rome III (50%), Rome II (17%), Apley (16%), and author-defined (17%) criteria were used to define FAPDs. Fourteen studies (22%) assessed a pharmacologic, 25 (39%) a dietary, and 25 (39%) a psychosocial intervention. Forty-four studies (69%) predefined their primary outcomes. In total, 211 reported predefined outcome measures were grouped into 23 different outcome domains; the majority being patient-reported (n = 27, 61%). Of the 14 studies that evaluated a pharmacologic intervention, 12 (86%) reported on adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies on pediatric FAPDs are of limited methodologic quality and show large heterogeneity and inconsistency in defining FAPDs and outcome measures used. Development of a core outcome set is needed to make comparison between intervention studies possible.

Probiotics for paediatric functional abdominal pain disorders: A rapid review

Background

Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPD) are prevalent in the paediatric population, however, there is currently no consensus regarding best practices for treatment. The use of probiotics is becoming popular to treat FAPD. The goal of this rapid review is to synthesize the best evidence on the use of probiotics in children with FAPD.

Methods

Searches were conducted on five main databases. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of probiotic use in children (0 to 18 years) with FAPD were searched. Populations of interest were patients with functional abdominal pain (FAP), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and functional dyspepsia (FD), recruited based on Rome criteria. Outcomes of interest were changes in abdominal pain severity, frequency, and duration.

Findings

Eleven RCTs with 829 participants with the diagnosis of FAP (n=400), IBS (n=329), FD (n=45), and mixed population (n=55) were included. Of six studies of children with FAP, two (n=103) used Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) and reported no significant effects on pain, and four (n=281) used Lactobacillus (L) reuteri DSM 17938, of which three (n=229) reported significant positive effects on either severity or frequency of pain. Of six trials of children with IBS, four (n=219) used LGG, of which three (n=168) reported a positive effect. One (n=48) used bifidobacteria and one used VSL #3 (n=59), both demonstrating positive effects with probiotics. Two studies of FD reported no benefit. No adverse events were attributed to probiotics.

Conclusions

There is preliminary evidence for use of probiotics, particularly LGG, in reducing abdominal pain in children with IBS. There are inconsistent positive effects of other probiotics, including L. reuteri DSM 17938, in reducing pain in patients with FAP, IBS, or FD. More RCTs with rigorous methodology using single or combination probiotics are warranted.

Noninvasive testing in the management of children with suspected inflammatory bowel disease

Objective: To assess the accuracy of noninvasive parameters, fecal calprotectin (FC), increased bowel wall thickening (BWT) at intestinal ultrasound (IUS) and blood inflammatory indexes (BII), alone or in combination, as diagnostic tools for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in pediatric patients. Methods: Retrospective data were collected on consecutive children (age 2-18 years) referred to our pediatric gastroenterology clinic, for recurrent abdominal pain and/or altered bowel habit from 2007 to 2013. Subjects who had diagnostic workup: laboratory tests (FC, BII, white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)) and IUS as initial assessment were eligible. Subjects with known gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, or signs or symptoms highly suggestive for organic diseases necessitating prompt endoscopy (e.g., perianal disease or rectal bleeding), or who had recently performed endoscopy were excluded. The accuracy of noninvasive tests for detecting IBD was assessed using endoscopic and/or radiological investigations, performed in subsequent clinical follow up, as reference gold standard. Results: Seventy-seven patients (mean age 11.3, 44 males) were included, 23 (29.9%) with a final diagnosis of IBD. As single tests, FC gave the highest sensitivity (96%) but lower specificity (72%) and IUS highest specificity (96%) with lower sensitivity (70%). The combination of FC + IUS showed excellent accuracy for detecting children with IBD with positive predictive value: 100%; negative predictive value: 88.5%. The probability of IBD in children with normal FC, BII and IUS was 0.09%. Conclusions: FC and increased BWT at IUS are accurate to guide reassurance or proceeding with further invasive procedures for detecting IBD in children with mild GI symptoms.

Parental Factors in Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders: A Cross-sectional Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

Parental factors are suggested to play a role in pediatric irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional abdominal pain-not otherwise specified (FAP-NOS) and may influence treatment. Since studies on parental factors mainly focus on mothers, this study aims to compare physical health, psychological distress, personality dimensions, and parenting behavior of both parents of children with IBS or FAP-NOS to parents of controls.

METHODS

Parents of 91 children with IBS or FAP-NOS were included in this explorative cross-sectional cohort study. Parents of 74 age-matched healthy children were used as controls. Questionnaires were used to measure demographics, physical health, psychological distress and symptoms, personality dimensions, and child-rearing practices.

RESULTS

A total of 59 mothers and 52 fathers of 61 children with IBS/FAP-NOS (response rate 61.0%) and 56 mothers and 49 fathers of 59 controls completed the study (response rate 70.9%). Mothers of children with IBS/FAP-NOS reported more physical problems. Psychological distress and symptoms, personality dimensions, and child-rearing practices did not differ between mothers of both groups. Fathers of children with IBS/FAP-NOS had significantly lower scores on the child-rearing practice subscale of ignoring of unwanted behavior. In the IBS/FAP-NOS group, fathers were more depressed and less agreeable than mothers. No differences on all assessed outcomes were found between parents of children with IBS and children with FAP-NOS.

CONCLUSIONS

Mothers of children with IBS/FAP-NOS and healthy peers differ with respect to physical health. Fathers in both groups differ with respect to child-rearing style. Clinicians should be aware of these differences when treating children with these disorders.

Dietary Habits and Abdominal Pain-related Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A School-based, Cross-sectional Analysis in Greek Children and Adolescents

Background/Aims

The abdominal pain-related functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs) affect a significant proportion of the pediatric population and consist 1 of the most frequent causes for seeking medical advice. In this study, we aimed to assess the relation of dietary habits with the likelihood of AP-FGIDs.

Methods

This was a school-based, cross-sectional study approved by the Greek Government authorities, after obtaining informed consent by the legal representatives of the children. Diagnoses of AP-FGIDs were based on the Greek official translation of the Rome III questionnaire. Demographic, socioeconomic and dietary data were collected through self-reporting or parent-reporting questionnaires. Associations between the probability of AP-FGIDs and dietary practices were assessed after adjusting for known confounders through a multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 1365 children (147 AP-FGIDs and 1218 controls, 52.4% females, mean age: 12.8 ± 2.8 years) were included. Multiple regression analysis identified the following statistically significant confounders: victimization, the presence of a person with a severe health problem at home, female sex, engaging in limited physical exercise, and living in a single adult family. Subsequently, logistic regression, adjusted for the abovementioned confounders, showed that reduced fish and increased junk food consumption were related to a higher likelihood of AP-FGIDs.

Conclusions

Children with AP-FGIDs report excessive junk-food and reduced fish intake compared to controls. Further studies are needed in order to clarify the nature of this observation.

Autonomic functions and gastric motility in children with functional abdominal pain disorders

BACKGROUND

Abdominal pain-predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs) are the most common cause of recurrent abdominal pain in children. Despite its high prevalence, the underlying pathophysiology of this condition is poorly understood.

AIM

To assess the role of gastric dysmotility and autonomic nervous system dysfunction in the pathophysiology of AP-FGIDs.

METHODS

One hundred children, fulfilling Rome III criteria for AP-FGIDs, and 50 healthy controls, aged 5 to 12 years, were recruited after obtaining parental consent. All patients were investigated for underlying organic disorders. Gastric motility and cardiovascular autonomic functions were assessed using validated non-invasive techniques.

RESULTS

The main gastric motility parameters assessed (gastric emptying rate [45.7 vs 59.6 in controls], amplitude [48.7 vs 58.2], frequency of antral contractions [8.3 vs 9.4], and antral motility index [4.1 vs 6.4]) were significantly lower in children with AP-FGIDs (P < 0.05). The post-prandial antral dilatation at 1 min after the test meal significantly correlated with the severity of abdominal pain (P < 0.05). Assessment of autonomic functions in AP-FGID patients showed neither a significant difference compared to the control group, nor a correlation with gastric motility abnormalities (P > 0.05). The duration of pain episodes negatively correlated with the parasympathetic tone (maladaptive parasympathetic tone) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Children with AP-FGIDs have abnormal gastric motility but normal cardiovascular autonomic functions. There is no relationship between abnormal gastric motility and autonomic functions. The pathogenesis of AP-FGIDs is not related to cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction.

Association between functional abdominal pain disorders and asthma in adolescents: A cross-sectional study

AIM

To find the association between asthma and different types of functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) among teenagers.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 13 to 15-year-old children from six randomly selected schools in Anuradhapura district of Sri Lanka. Data were collected using translated and validated self-administered questionnaires (Rome III questionnaire, International Study on Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0) and administered under an examination setting after obtaining parental consent and assent.

RESULTS

Of the 1101 children included in the analysis, 157 (14.3%) had asthma and 101 (9.2%) had at least one FAPDs. Of children with asthma, 19.1% had at least one type of FAPDs. Prevalence rates of functional abdominal pain (FAP) (8.9% vs 3.3% in non-asthmatics), functional dyspepsia (FD) (2.5% vs 0.7%), and abdominal migraine (AM) (3.2% vs 0.4%) were higher in those with asthma (P < 0.05, multiple logistic regression analysis), but not in those with irritable bowel syndrome (4.5% vs 3.1%, P = 0.2). Severe abdominal pain (10.8% vs 4.6%), bloating (16.6% vs 9.6%), nausea (6.4% vs 2.9%), and anorexia (24.2% vs 16.2%) were more prevalent among asthmatics (P < 0.05). Lower gastrointestinal symptoms did not show a significant difference. Scores obtained for health related quality of life (HRQoL) were lower in those with asthma and FAPDs (P < 0.05, unpaired t-test).

CONCLUSION

Asthma is associated with three different types of FAPDs, namely, FD, AM, and FAP. HRQoL is significantly impaired in teenagers with asthma and FAPDs.

Effectiveness of Probiotics in Children With Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders and Functional Constipation: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of probiotics on functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPD) and functional constipation (FC).

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted, searching PubMed and Cochrane databases from inception to January 2018 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of probiotics in children aged 4 to 18 years with FAPD or children aged 0 to 18 years with FC.

RESULTS

A total of 657 citations were identified. Finally, 11 RCTs for FAPD and 6 RCTs for FC were included. Some evidence exists for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (n=3) in reducing frequency and intensity of abdominal pain in children with irritable bowel syndrome. There is no evidence to recommend L. reuteri DSM 17938 (n=5), a mix of Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium breve and Bifidobacterium longum (n=1), Bifidobacterium lactis (n=1) or VSL#3 (n=1) for children with FAPD. No evidence exists to support the use of Lactobacillus casei rhamnosus LCR35 (n=1), B. lactis DN173 010 (n=1), B. longum (n=1), L. reuteri DSM 17938 (n=1), a mix of B. infantis, B. breve and B. longum (n=1), or Protexin mix (n=1) for children with FC. In general, studies had an unclear or high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Insufficient evidence exists for the use of probiotics in FAPD and FC, only L. rhamnosus GG seems to reduce frequency and intensity of abdominal pain but only in children with irritable bowel syndrome. A better understanding of differences in gut microbiota in health and disease might lead to better probiotic strategies to treat disease.

Focus on the use of antidepressants to treat pediatric functional abdominal pain: current perspectives

Chronic abdominal pain is frequently encountered in pediatric practice. A large proportion of cases meet Rome criteria for abdominal pain-functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs). These disorders are costly and, in some cases, lead to impairment of daily functioning and overall quality of life. Pathophysiologic mechanisms include early stressful events, visceral hypersensitivity, dysmotility, changes in intestinal microbiota, and altered central nervous system processing. They are considered disorders of the brain-gut interaction. The diagnosis is made on clinical grounds using symptom-based criteria (Rome criteria). Anxiety and depressive symptoms are more prevalent in patients with AP-FGIDs. Therefore, attention has been directed to the use of neuromodulators as potential interventions for AP-FGIDs. Antidepressants are one type of neuromodulators, and one of the most studied drugs for the management of AP-FGIDs in adult and pediatric population. Data available in pediatric population have significant limitations including nonuniform methodology with different study designs and primary endpoints. Evidence of the efficacy of antidepressants in the management of pediatric AP-FGIDs is not consistent. There is an urgent need for well-designed randomized clinical trials using age-appropriate validated outcome measures. Careful consideration must be given to adverse effects, particularly increased suicidal ideation.

Mind the gut: probiotics in paediatric neurogastroenterology

The gut-brain axis has recently emerged as a key modulator of human health and the intestinal microbiome has a well-recognised pivotal role in this strong connection. The aim of this narrative review is to update and summarise the effect and clinical applicability of probiotics in paediatric neurogastroenterology. The Cochrane Database and PubMed were searched using keywords relating to different subtypes of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and their symptoms, those relating to the CNS and related neurological or behavioural dysfunction as well as 'probiotic' OR 'probiotics'. Included papers were limited to those including children (aged 0-18 years) and using English language. Although significant effects of specific strains have been reported in infants with FGIDs, heterogeneity amongst the studies (different products and concentrations used and FGID subtypes), has limited the ability to draw an overall conclusion on the clinical value of probiotics. According to different meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials, the use of Lactobacillus reuteri (DSM 17938) was associated with a significant decrease in average crying time in infantile colic. There is moderate evidence for this strain and LGG and limited evidence (based on one study each) for the beneficial effect of VSL#3 and a three-strain bifidobacteria mix in abdominal pain FGIDs, particularly in the irritable bowel disease subgroup of children, but not in functional dyspepsia. There is currently no clear evidence of positive effects of oral probiotics in autistic spectrum disorder. Efficacy and safety of other strains or beneficial effects in other conditions still need to be proven, as probiotic properties are strain-specific, and data cannot be extrapolated to other brain-gut or mood diseases or to other probiotics of the same or different species. To transform the use of probiotics from a tempting suggestion to a promising treatment modality in neurogastroenterological disorders more accurate differentiation of the efficacy-proven strains, clarification of dose, duration, and outcome and a careful selection of the target patients are still necessary.

Neurectomy for anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome in children

INTRODUCTION

Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) is an underrecognized etiology of chronic abdominal pain that causes great morbidity to those affected. We sought to determine the outcome of neurectomy for ACNES in children.

METHODS

Demographic and clinical data on children who underwent neurectomy for ACNES by a single surgeon from 10/2011 to 01/2017 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients underwent neurectomy for ACNES. Five were male and average age was 15years (10-21). Median (IQR) preoperative pain duration was 15 (8-29) months and 19 reported their pain was 10/10 (6-10). Thirteen patients were taking antidepressants, 12 Gabapentin, and 4 narcotics. Most had been hospitalized at least once secondary to the pain. All 26 had undergone diagnostic studies including: nuclear medicine scan, fluoroscopy, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, sonography, endoscopy and surgery. Once the diagnosis was suspected, all underwent at least one ultrasound-directed nerve block, which provided relief lasting from 6h to 14days. Patients then underwent outpatient surgery with division of the involved nerve(s). There were no perioperative complications. Most patients reported incisional discomfort for 3-14days afterward, and immediate resolution of the nerve pain without cutaneous numbness. Postoperatively, 15 patients (58%) were pain free long-term; pain recurred to a lesser severity in 8 (31%) and recurred to the same extent in 3 (11%), with average time to recurrence of 6.7months. Of those whose pain recurred to a lesser extent, all achieved long term relief, 4 improved with time, 1 through repeat neurectomy, 2 through medical treatment for underlying psychiatric disorders and 1 through treatment for newly diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease. Of those children with pain recurring to the same extent, all underwent repeat neurectomy, none of whom achieved pain relief.

CONCLUSION

ACNES should be considered in children with chronic abdominal pain. Neurectomy is safe and relieves pain in around 88% of selected children. Further investigation is necessary to optimize patient selection.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders among adolescents in Buenos Aires, Argentina

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

The prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in Argentinean children and adolescents has not yet been studied. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of FGIDs among children and adolescents in Argentina using the Rome III diagnostic criteria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 483 children, 12-18 years of age, from 3 private schools and 3 public schools, were included in the study. Each child completed the Spanish version of the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms-Rome III), which is an age-appropriate and previously validated instrument for diagnosing FGIDs according to the Rome III criteria. Sociodemographic data (age, sex, type of school, family structure and size, family history of gastrointestinal disorders) and data on stressful life events were also obtained.

RESULTS

The mean age of the population studied was 15 years (standard deviation 1.74, range 12-18, 52.8% boys). Of the respondents, 229 children (47.4%) attended private school and 254 children (52.6%) attended public school. In total, 82 children (17.0%) were diagnosed with an FGID, according to the Rome III criteria. Abdominal migraine (16.4%) was the most common diagnosis, followed by irritable bowel syndrome (7.0%), functional constipation (6.4%), and aerophagia (5.6%). Girls suffered significantly more from FGIDs than boys (22.4 vs. 12.2%, P=.0032). Children attending private school had significantly more FGIDs than children in public schools (20.5 vs. 13.8%, P=.0499).

CONCLUSION

FGIDs are common among Argentinean children and adolescents.

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.

Parents' experience when their child has chronic abdominal pain: a qualitative study in Norway

OBJECTIVE

Functional abdominal pain occurs frequently in children and adolescents. It is an exclusion diagnosis; somatic diseases have to be ruled out. However little explanation is given for why the child is experiencing pain. The aim was to explore the experiences of parents of children with chronic abdominal pain discharged from hospital without a somatic explanation.

DESIGN

The study has a qualitative design. The open questions concerned pain experiences and management. Interviews were conducted at the hospital, at the parents' workplace or in their homes, audiotape recorded and transcribed. A descriptive content analysis was used to analyse the transcribed text.

SETTING

Parents of children referred from general practice located in urban and rural areas in two municipals in Norway.

PARTICIPANTS

Fourteen parents of children with functional abdominal pain aged 5-15 years.

RESULTS

Fourteen parents participated. Some explained that their child's disability glued the parents together on a common project to help the child. Other parents could tell that siblings got less attention and complained about too much fuss during pain. Parents wished for diagnosis that could be treated efficiently. Some were still anxious that an undetected condition triggered pain. They prompted their doctor to do further examinations. However, some parents knew that social factors could inflict pain and were concerned that their child was unable to distinguish sensations like anxiety and 'butterfly' tensions from physical pain. The parents and children needed professional guidance on how to manage the pain .

CONCLUSION

The doctor's consultation should not end at the diagnosis of functional abdominal pain. Doctors may help these families further by focusing on pain management strategies.

Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial on Value of Domperidone in Functional Abdominal Pain in Children

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of domperidone on children with abdominal pain predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs).

METHODS

One hundred children (aged 5-12 years) fulfilling Rome III criteria for AP-FGIDs were randomized into 8 weeks of domperidone or placebo treatment. Primary outcomes defined were cure and patient-reported general improvement. Secondary outcomes were reduction in the severity of abdominal pain and increase in gastric motility. Patients were followed up for 6 months.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine (42 in placebo group, 47 in domperidone group) completed the trial at 8 weeks. Seventy-nine completed the 6-month follow-up. When primary outcomes were assessed at 8 weeks, 37 (74%) in the domperidone group and 25 (50%) in the placebo group showed patient-reported general improvement (P = 0.013), whereas no significant difference was observed in cure (22 [44%] vs 14 [28%] P = 0.09). At 6-month follow-up 30 (60%) in the domperidone group and 19 (38%) in the placebo group reported cure (P = 0.028), whereas 44 (88%) in the domperidone group and 33 (66%) in the placebo group showed patient-reported general improvement (P = 0.009). When assessing secondary outcomes at 8 weeks, the domperidone group reported significant reduction in the severity of abdominal pain (54.1% vs 24.7%, P = 0.008) and an increase in the antral motility index (27.5% vs 7.2%, P = 0.029). None of the patients reported intervention-related adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Domperidone may be a safe and effective therapeutic modality to achieve a lasting remission of symptoms in children with AP-FGIDs.

Pediatric abdominal migraine: current perspectives on a lesser known entity

Background

Abdominal migraine (AM) is a common cause of chronic and recurrent abdominal pain in children. It is characterized by paroxysms of moderate to severe abdominal pain that is midline, periumbilical, or diffuse in location and accompanied by other symptoms including headache, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, or pallor. Despite the presence of comprehensive diagnostic criteria under Rome IV classification of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and International Classification of Headache Disorders, it continues to be an underdiagnosed entity.

Overview

The average age of diagnosis is 3–10 years with peak incidence at 7 years. Most of the patients have a personal or family history of migraine. Pathophysiology of the condition is believed to be similar to that of other FGIDs and cephalic migraine. It is also well recognized as a type of pediatric migraine variant. A careful history, thorough physical examination, and use of well-defined, symptom-based guidelines are needed to make a diagnosis. Selective or no testing is required to support a positive diagnosis. It resolves completely in most of the patients. However, these patients have a strong propensity to develop migraine later in life. Explanation and reassurance should be the first step once the diagnosis is made. Nonpharmacologic treatment options including avoidance of triggers, behavior therapy, and dietary modifications should be the initial line of management. Drug therapy should be considered only if symptoms are refractory to these primary interventions.

Conclusion

More research focused on pathophysiology and management of AM needs to be carried out to improve outcomes in affected children.

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.

Probiotics in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Infantile colic, constipation, functional abdominal pain (FAP), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID). This chapter will review current evidence on the role of probiotics in the treatment of these FGID. The etiology of FGID is considered multifactorial, but the importance of intestinal microbiota in their development has been repeatedly emphasized. As a consequence, the potential role of probiotics in their treatment is being increasingly scrutinized. Presently, the strongest evidence of efficacy is for the use of Lactobacillus reuteri (L reuteri) DSM 17938 at the dose of 10⁸ CFU/day for the treatment of infantile colic in breastfed infants. Limited, yet encouraging, evidence exists for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) at the dose of 3 × 10⁹ CFU and for a multi-strain preparation for the treatment of IBS. In the treatment of FAP, there is some evidence for the use of L reuteri DSM 17938 at the dose of at least 10⁸ CFU/day.

Comparison of gut-directed hypnotherapy and unspecific hypnotherapy as self-help format in children and adolescents with functional abdominal pain or irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Psychosocial treatments for chronic abdominal pain in childhood or adolescence are effective, but time consuming and hardly available. In the present study, gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDHT) and unspecific hypnotherapy (UHT) were compared to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a hypnotherapeutic self-help intervention.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

Children/adolescents between 6 and 17 years of age with chronic abdominal pain were randomized to GDHT or UHT. The treatment period was 12 weeks each. Measurements were performed before and after treatment. The primary outcome was a pain diary. Analysis was carried out as per protocol.

RESULTS

Of 45 participants included, 13 were lost to follow-up. Thirty-two participants (14 GHDT, 18 UHT) were analyzed. Dropouts had higher pain severity. Completers in both conditions showed good adherence and a similar decrease in days with pain and pain duration. Pain intensity decreased only in the UHT condition. Eleven participants (two GDHT, nine UHT) achieved clinical remission (>80% improvement) and 13 participants (seven GDHT, six UHT) improved significantly (30-80%).

CONCLUSION

Results suggest a high efficacy of standardized home-based hypnotherapy for children/adolescents with abdominal pain. Children/adolescents with high pain severity are at risk of dropping out. The UHT condition showed slight evidence of superiority, but conditions were equivalent on most outcomes. Taken together, self-help approaches based on hypnotherapy could close a treatment gap and prevent chronification.