Functional gastrointestinal disorders: Working Group Report of the First World Congress of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition

Designing, Developing, and Validating a Set of Standardized Pictograms to Support Pediatric-Reported Gastroduodenal Symptoms

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a set of static and animated gastroduodenal symptom pictograms for children.

STUDY DESIGN

There were 3 study phases: 1: cocreation using experience design methods to develop pediatric gastroduodenal symptom pictograms (static and animated); 2: an online survey to assess acceptability, as well as face and content validity; and 3: a preference study. Phases 2 and 3 compared the novel pediatric pictograms with existing pictograms used with adult patients.

RESULTS

Eight children aged 6-15 years (5 female) participated in phase 1, and 69 children in phase 2 (median age 13 years: IQR 9-15); an additional 49 participants were included in phase 3 (median age 15: IQR 12-17). Face and content validity were higher for the pediatric static and animated pictogram sets compared with pre-existing adult pictograms (78% vs 78% vs 61%). Participants with worse gastric symptoms had superior comprehension of the pediatric pictograms (χ2 [8, N = 118] P < .001). All participants preferred the pediatric static pictogram set was over both the animated and adult sets (χ2 [2, N = 118] P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The cocreation phase resulted in the symptom concept confirmation and design of 10 acceptable static and animated gastroduodenal pictograms with high face and content validity when evaluated with children aged 6-18. Validity was superior when children reported more problematic symptoms. Therefore, these pictograms could be used in clinical and research practice to enable standardized symptom reporting for children with gastroduodenal disorders.

OCCULT AND SEMI-OCCULT CONSTIPATION IN CHILDREN WITH MONOSYMPTOMATIC OR NON MONOSYMPTOMATIC ENURESIS

BACKGROUND

Functional constipation and enuresis frequently coexist. Constipation treatment often results in resolution or improvement of the enuresis. However, besides the classical presentation, patients can present with occult constipation (OC) diagnosed in complementary evaluation; in addition, semi-occult constipation (SOC) can be detected by means of a detailed questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify OC and SOC frequency in children with monosymptomatic or non monosymptomatic enuresis (MNE or NMNE).

METHODS

Otherwise healthy children/adolescents, with enuresis refractory to behavioral therapy and denying constipation after simple questions, answered a structured bowel habit questionnaire and were submitted to a plain abdominal radiological exam. Constipation was classified considering the Boston diagnostic criteria (to allow diagnosis at initial stages), and fecal loading in the X-ray quantified ≥10 by the Barr score. Children with constipation received a standardized treatment (except 26 "pilot" children).

RESULTS

Out of 81 children, 80 aged 9.34±2.07 years, 52.5% male, were diagnosed with constipation: 30 OC, 50 SOC; 63.75% had MNE, 36.25% NMNE (six NMNE without behavioral therapy). Demographic data and the Barr score were similar for OC and SOC, but SOC children experienced significantly more constipation complications (retentive fecal incontinence and/or recurrent abdominal pain). Not showing the Bristol Stool Scale (BSS) to 24 "pilot" children, or absence of constipation symptoms accompanying BSS predominantly type 3, in 13 children, did not significantly impact the detection of constipation by the Barr score. Children identifying BSS 3 or ≤2 had similar results. Twenty-eight children, with adequate follow-up after treatment, improved or recovered from constipation at 44 of their 52 follow-up visits.

CONCLUSION

In patients with MNE or NMNE refractory to behavioral therapy, and who initially denied constipation after simple questions, a detailed questionnaire based on the Boston diagnostic criteria detected SOC in 61.7%, and the radiological Barr score revealed fecal loading (OC) in 37.0% of them.

Reported Prevalence and Nutritional Management of Functional Constipation among Young Children from Healthcare Professionals in Eight Countries across Asia, Europe and Latin America

Background: The prevalence of functional constipation (FC) among children varies widely. A survey among healthcare professionals (HCPs) was conducted to better understand the HCP-reported prevalence and (nutritional) management of FC in children 12−36 months old. Methods: An anonymous e-survey using SurveyMonkey was disseminated via emails or WhatsApp among HCPs in eight countries/regions. Results: Data from 2199 respondents were analyzed. The majority of the respondents (65.9%) were from Russia, followed by other countries (Indonesia (11.0%), Malaysia (6.0%)), Mexico, KSA (5.1% (5.7%), Turkey (3.0%), Hong Kong (2.2%), Singapore (1.1%)). In total, 80% of the respondents (n = 1759) were pediatricians. The prevalence of FC in toddlers was reported at less than 5% by 43% of the respondents. Overall, 40% of the respondents reported using ROME IV criteria in > 70% of the cases to diagnose FC, while 11% never uses Rome IV. History of painful defecation and defecations < 2 x/week are the two most important criteria for diagnosing FC. In total, 33% of the respondents reported changing the standard formula to a specific nutritional solution, accompanied by parental reassurance. Conclusion: The most reported prevalence of FC in toddlers in this survey was less than five percent. ROME IV criteria are frequently used for establishing the diagnosis. Nutritional management is preferred over pharmacological treatment in managing FC.

Feeding difficulties in children fed a cows' milk elimination diet

A cross-sectional study compared feeding difficulties in children aged 2-5 years fed a cows' milk elimination diet due to food allergy with a control group on an unrestricted diet. All data were obtained online. Specific questionnaires evaluated three types of feeding difficulties: avoidant eating, picky eating and feeding problems. The median scores of feeding difficulties in the elimination diet (n 146) and control (n 109) groups were, respectively: picky eating (31 v. 27; P = 0·148), avoidant eating (3 v. 3; P = 0·508) and feeding problems (38 v. 34, P = 0·032). Picky eating was more frequent in the elimination diet (35·4 %) than in the controls (23·3 %; P = 0·042), but no difference was observed for avoidant eating (23·9 % v. 20·4 %, P = 0·508) and feeding problems (32·1 % v. 28·4 %, P = 0·541). Picky eating was associated with lower values of weight-for-age z-scores in both groups. Multivariate analyses identified associations of the three feeding difficulties with previous food refusal and/or inappetence in the elimination diet group. Current constipation and anticipatory gagging were associated with feeding difficulties in both groups. In conclusion, children on an elimination diet presented higher frequency of picky eating and higher scores of feeding problems. Picky eating was associated with lower values of weight-for-age z-scores. Food refusal and/or inappetence as clinical manifestations of food allergy were associated with feeding difficulties at the moment of the survey. Current constipation and anticipatory gagging were associated with picky eating, avoidant eating and feeding problems.

Effect of Polydextrose/Fructooligosaccharide Mixture on Constipation Symptoms in Children Aged 4 to 8 Years

Constipation is a frequent problem in children. We evaluated the effect of a mixture (polydextrose [PDX] and fructooligosaccharide [FOS]) in children with constipation. We performed a prospective interventional study with a mixture (PDX 4.17 g and FOS 0.45 g) in a daily dose of food supplement. The intervention lasted 45 days, with visits at 15, 30, and 45 days after administration. The sample comprised 105 patients, of whom 77 completed the intervention. A statistically significant reduction in the frequency of symptoms was observed at the end of the study. The frequency of children with fewer than three bowel movements per week dropped from 59.7% to 11.7%, and there was a decrease in the frequency of Bristol type 1 and 2 dry stools (68.8% to 7.8%), pain on defecation (79.2% to 10.4%), and fear of defecation (68.8% to 3.9%). The proportion of children with abdominal pain symptoms decreased from 84.2% to 2.6% at the end of the study. A relevant limitation of the present study was the lack of a control group treated with placebo. The administration of the PDX/FOS mixture was accompanied by a significant reduction in the frequency of constipation symptoms of the children evaluated. The tolerability was very good, and the rate of adverse effects was low.

Efficacy of oral magnesium therapy in the treatment of chronic constipation in spastic cerebral palsy children: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Constipation is a common problem in children with spastic cerebral palsy (sCP) with a prevalence that reaches 75%. We hypothesized that treating constipation in those children will improve their health and shorten time spent in daily care. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral magnesium sulfate for treating chronic constipation in children with sCP.

METHODS

A prospective, double-blinded randomized control trial was carried out involving 100 children aged 2-12 years with sCP (level III-V of the Gross Motor Functional Classification system) and chronic constipation. They were followed up in the Pediatric neurology clinic, Children's hospital, Ain Shams University, May 2017- January 2019. The intervention group (O-Mg) received oral magnesium sulfate 1 mL/kg/day daily for 1 month compared to the placebo. Outcome measures were constipation improvement and decrease in bowel evacuation time after 1 month.

RESULTS

Initially, weekly bowel movements, constipation scores and stool consistency were comparable in both groups. After 1 month of regular administration of oral magnesium sulfate, the constipation score, stool frequency and consistency improved compared to the placebo group (P < 0.001). Effective safe treatment was achieved in 31 (68%) and 4 (9.5%) patients in the O-Mg and placebo groups, respectively (RR, 2.95; 95% CI 2.0-4.5) (P < 0.001). Painful bowel evacuation attempts spent by mothers decreased from 25 (55.6%) of the cases initially to 10 (22%) cases after one month in the O-Mg group (P = 0.001). In contrast, in the placebo group, the decrease went from 21 (50%) cases initially to 18 (42.9%) after 1 month and was not significant (P = 0.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral magnesium sulfate seems effective in alleviating chronic constipation and pain experience in children with sCP. Consequently, saving maternal time spent in daily bowel evacuation attempts.

Novel Use of Impedance Technology Shows That Esophageal Air Events Can Be Temporally Associated With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease-like Symptoms

A few studies have shown that esophageal air events (EAEs), such as air-swallows, may be associated with symptoms that have historically been associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To objectively test a hypothesis that all EAE types (air-swallows, supragastric belches and gastric belches) can be associated with GERD-like symptoms, we removed the impedance "tags" from the GER episodes (placed during autoscan) and instead tagged either air-swallows, supragastric belches or gastric belches in each of 3 copies of the 24-hour impedance tracing for 2 infant patients who presented with symptoms suggestive of GER as an etiology. Impedance system software (MMS) analyses revealed that, in both infants, all EAE types were significantly associated (SAP >95%) with 1 or more of the GERD-like symptom types (cough, pain/crying, back-arching, and gagging). These data underscore the importance of considering other diagnoses when developing management strategies for treating GERD-like symptoms in infants.

GUT MICROBIOTA AND THE USE OF PROBIOTICS IN CONSTIPATION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Objective:

To perform a systematic review of literature data on gut microbiota and the efficacy of probiotics for the treatment of constipation in children and adolescents.

Data source:

The research was performed in the PubMed, the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) databases in English, Portuguese and Spanish. All original articles that mentioned the evaluation of the gut microbiota or the use of probiotics in children with constipation in their title and abstract were selected.

Data synthesis:

559 articles were found, 47 of which were selected for reading. From these, 12 articles were included; they studied children and adolescents divided into two categories: a gut microbiota evaluation (n=4) and an evaluation of the use of probiotics in constipation therapy (n=8). The four papers that analyzed fecal microbiota used different laboratory methodologies. No typical pattern of gut microbiota was found. Regarding treatment, eight clinical trials with heterogeneous methodologies were found. Fifteen strains of probiotics were evaluated and only one was analyzed in more than one article. Irregular beneficial effects of probiotics have been demonstrated in some manifestations of constipation (bowel frequency or consistency of stool or abdominal pain or pain during a bowel movement or flatulence). In one clinical trial, a complete control of constipation without the use of laxatives was obtained.

Conclusions:

There is no specific pattern of fecal microbiota abnormalities in constipation. Despite the probiotics’ positive effects on certain characteristics of the intestinal habitat, there is still no evidence to recommend it in the treatment of constipation in pediatrics.

Nationwide Survey for Application of ROME IV Criteria and Clinical Practice for Functional Constipation in Children

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the awareness and application of ROME IV criteria for functional constipation (FC) in real-world practices and assessed differences between pediatric gastroenterologists (PGs) and general pediatricians.

METHODS

A total of 239 (47.8%) out of 500 nationwide pediatricians answered a questionnaire for diagnosis and management of pediatric FC; 60 were PGs (75% of total PGs in Korea).

RESULTS

A total of 16.6% of pediatricians were aware of the exact ROME IV criteria. Perianal examination and digital rectal examination were practiced less, with a higher tendency among PGs (P < 0.001). Treatment duration was longer among PGs for > 6 months (63.8%) than < 3 months among general pediatricians (59.2%, P < 0.001). Fecal disimpaction and rectal enema were practiced among 78.8% and 58.5% of pediatricians, respectively. High dose medication for initial treatment phase was prescribed by 70.7% of pediatricians, primarily within the first 2 weeks (48.3%). The most commonly prescribed medications in children aged > 1-year were lactulose (59.1%), followed by polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 (17.7%), and probiotics (11.8%). Prescription priority significantly differed between PGs and general pediatricians; lactulose or PEG 4000 were most commonly prescribed by PGs (89.7%), and lactulose or probiotics (75.7%) were prescribed by general pediatricians (P < 0.001). For patients aged < 1-year, lactulose (41.6%) and changing formula (31.7%) were commonly prescribed. Most participants recommended diet modification, and PGs more frequently used defecation diary (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Discrepancies between actual practice and Rome IV criteria and between PGs and general pediatricians were observed. This survey may help construct practice guidelines and educational programs for pediatric FC.

Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Parallel Clinical Trial Assessing the Effect of Fructooligosaccharides in Infants with Constipation

Constipation often begins in the first year of life. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) in the treatment of infants with constipation. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial included infants with constipation who were randomly assigned to one of two parallel groups: FOS or placebo. Either the FOS supplement or the placebo was added to the infant formula. Thirty-six infants completed the 4-week intervention. Therapeutic success occurred in 83.3% of the FOS group infants and in 55.6% of the control group infants (p = 0.073; one-tailed test). Compared with the control group, the FOS group exhibited a higher frequency of softer stools (p = 0.035) and fewer episodes of straining and/or difficulty passing stools (p = 0.041). At the end of the intervention, the mouth-to-anus transit time was shorter (22.4 and 24.5 h, p = 0.035), and the Bifidobacterium sp. count was higher (p = 0.006) in the FOS group. In conclusion, the use of FOS in infants with constipation was associated with significant improvement in symptoms, but the results showed no statistical significance regarding the success of the therapy compared with the control group. FOS was associated with reduced bowel transit time and higher counts of the genus Bifidobacterium in the stool.

PROPOSALS TO APPROXIMATE THE PEDIATRIC ROME CONSTIPATION CRITERIA TO EVERYDAY PRACTICE

BACKGROUND

Acceptance of the prevailing pediatric Rome constipation criteria, by primary care physician, is still low. Even for research purposes they have not been universally adopted. Thus, it has been indicated that some re-evaluation of these criteria would be welcome.

OBJECTIVE

The authors aimed to look at the timing of diagnosis and the dietary treatment recommendations in the criteria, to make proposals trying to approximate them to everyday practice.

METHODS

The literature cited in the Rome criteria was reviewed and the publications pertinent to the subject, searched by Medline up to January 2018, were included.

RESULTS

An early diagnosis is fundamental to avoid evolution to bothersome complications and possibly to 'intractable' constipation, but the inclusion of two items of the criteria might hamper it. Thus, one constipation sign/symptom should suffice, usually the easily observable 'painful or hard bowel movements'. Details about dietary fiber recommendations are missing in the criteria, although its increase is usually the first approach in primary care, and overall the data about dietary fiber supplements point to beneficial effects.

CONCLUSION

For diagnosis and treatment of pediatric constipation in primary care, one constipation sign/symptom should suffice. The recommended daily dietary fiber intake, according to the American Health Foundation, should be detailed as a treatment measure, and also for prevention, from weaning on.

Water and fluid intake in the prevention and treatment of functional constipation in children and adolescents: is there evidence?

OBJECTIVE

To study the evidence on the role of water and fluid intake in the prevention and treatment of functional intestinal constipation in children and adolescents.

SOURCE OF DATA

A search was carried out in the Medline database (between 1966 and 2016) for all published articles containing the following words: constipation, water, and fluids, published in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. All original articles that assessed children and adolescents were selected by title and abstract. The references of these articles were also evaluated.

SYNTHESIS OF DATA

A total of 1040 articles were retrieved. Of these, 24 were selected for reading. The study included 11 articles that assessed children and adolescents. The articles were divided into two categories, those that evaluated water and fluid intake as a risk factor for intestinal constipation and those that evaluated their role in the treatment of intestinal constipation. Five articles were included in the first category. The criteria for assessing fluid intake and bowel rhythm were different in each study. Three studies demonstrated an association between low fluid intake and intestinal constipation. Regarding treatment, five articles with heterogeneous methodologies were found. None of them clearly identified the favorable role of fluid intake in the treatment of intestinal constipation.

CONCLUSION

There are few articles on the association between fluid intake and intestinal constipation. Epidemiological evidence indicates an association between lower fluid intake and intestinal constipation. Further clinical trials and epidemiological studies that consider the international recommendations for fluid intake by children and adolescents are required.

Screening for Psychosocial and Family Risk in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders

OBJECTIVES

Screening for psychosocial comorbidity is recommended for pediatric patients presenting at an initial gastroenterology (GI) outpatient consultation. We developed and evaluated the psychometric properties of the GI Screener to address the need for a screening tool specific to pediatric GI patients.

METHODS

128 patients (8-18 years old, 63% female) and 126 parents completed age-specific versions of the GI Screener and 3 validated psychosocial comparison instruments (The Behavioral Assessment System for Children, The Functional Disability Inventory, The General Functioning scale of the Family Assessment Device) at their initial GI consultation. (30%) of families repeated the measures 2 weeks later. We identified GI Screener content domains and retained items using exploratory factor analysis. We evaluated internal consistency, construct validity, cross-informant reliability, and test-retest reliability of the trimmed measures.

RESULTS

Exploratory factor analysis identified 2 factors in both the parent and child scales: Symptom Impact and Emotional Functioning. Internal consistency estimates for the trimmed scales were good (Cronbach's alpha >0.75) for both Child and Parent scales. We found that the GI Screener for both patient and parents had good construct validity. Cross-informant reliability between Parent and Child scales at baseline had an estimated correlation of 0.56, while intra class correlation coefficients between baseline and 2-week scores showed high test-retest reliability (>0.7).

CONCLUSIONS

The GI Screener is a brief, valid and reliable measure that can aid in identifying families who are at high risk for psychosocial comorbidity facilitating the targeted delivery of psychosocial intervention and efficient use of health care resources.

Childhood constipation as an emerging public health problem

Functional constipation (FC) is a significant health problem in children and contrary to common belief, has serious ramifications on the lives of children and their families. It is defined by the Rome criteria which encourage the use of multiple clinical features for diagnosis. FC in children has a high prevalence (0.7%-29%) worldwide, both in developed and developing countries. Biopsychosocial risk factors such as psychological stress, poor dietary habits, obesity and child maltreatment are commonly identified predisposing factors for FC. FC poses a significant healthcare burden on the already overstretched health budgets of many countries in terms of out-patient care, in-patient care, expenditure for investigations and prescriptions. Complications are common and range from minor psychological disturbances, to lower health-related quality of life. FC in children also has a significant impact on families. Many paediatric clinical trials have poor methodological quality, and drugs proved to be useful in adults, are not effective in relieving symptoms in children. A significant proportion of inadequately treated children have similar symptoms as adults. These factors show that constipation is an increasing public health problem across the world with a significant medical, social and economic impact. This article highlights the potential public health impact of FC and the possibility of overcoming this problem by concentrating on modifiable risk factors rather than expending resources on high cost investigations and therapeutic modalities.

The effect of food withdrawal in children with rapid-transit constipation

BACKGROUND

Rapid proximal colonic transit with anorectal holdup is a subtype of chronic constipation linked to food intolerance. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of dietary exclusion as a treatment for constipated children with rapid-transit constipation by scintigraphy.

METHODS

Questionnaires on diet and symptoms were mailed out to 125 children with chronic constipation and rapid proximal colonic transit on nuclear transit study at our institute between 1998 and 2014 years. Patients were given instructions and encouraged to undertake a six-food elimination diet targeting common protein allergens (dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, nuts, seafood). Answers were completed by circling an option or on visual analogue scale. Results were evaluated statistically using GraphPad Prism 6 by a Wilcoxon matched-pairs rank test. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

We received 44/125 responses, 26 patients [mean age 11 years (5-21)] had attempted elimination diet and 18 had not. Dairy and wheat were the most common foods eliminated and symptomatic improvement was greater for patients who had completely eliminated foods. Constipation, abdominal pain and pain on defecation were reduced (p < 0.01). Laxative usage decreased, although this was not statistically significant. Families encountered problems with dietary exclusion, particularly expense. Assistance from a dietician or nutritionist was sought by >50 % of families.

CONCLUSION

Dietary exclusion is a promising strategy to treat constipation in children with rapid proximal colonic transit. However, it was hard for many families, demonstrating the need for identifying the cause more specifically and a better set of instructions for the family and/or dietitian to follow.

Signs and symptoms associated with digestive tract development

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the development and prevalence of gastrointestinal signs and symptoms associated with the development of the digestive tract, and to assess the measures aimed to reduce their negative impacts.

SOURCE OF DATA

Considering the scope and comprehensiveness of the subject, a systematic review of the literature was not carried out. The Medline database was used to identify references that would allow the analysis of the study topics.

SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS

Infants frequently show several gastrointestinal signs and symptoms. These clinical manifestations can be part of gastrointestinal functional disorders such as infantile colic, infant regurgitation, and functional constipation. Allergy to cow's milk protein and gastroesophageal reflux disease are also causes of these clinical manifestations and represent an important and difficult differential diagnosis. The diseases that course with gastrointestinal signs and symptoms can have an impact on family dynamics and maternal emotional status, and may be associated with future problems in the child's life. Comprehensive pediatric care is essential for diagnosis and treatment. Maternal breastfeeding should always be maintained. Some special formulas can contribute to the control of clinical manifestations depending on the established diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

During the normal development of the digestive tract, several gastrointestinal signs and symptoms may occur, usually resulting from functional gastrointestinal disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and allergy to cow's milk protein. Breastfeeding should always be maintained.

Transabdominal electrical stimulation (TES) for the treatment of slow-transit constipation (STC)

Slow-transit constipation (STC) is a newly described subtype of intractable constipation in children which we originally identified with deficiency of substance P in axons supplying the proximal colonic muscle. When nuclear transit studies became available, the patients were found to have slow proximal colonic transit, and responded to antegrade enemas. Using the appendicostomy, we found that there was reduced frequency in propagating sequences throughout the colon. We began testing whether transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TES) could improve motility and symptoms, and over several trials have now shown that TES is remarkably effective in treating children with STC, with long-lasting effects. TES holds promise for treating STC, as well as a range of gastrointestinal motility disorders.

Factors relating to hospitalisation and economic burden of paediatric constipation in the state of Victoria, Australia, 2002-2009

AIM

Constipation is common, with severe symptoms requiring hospitalisation. Constipation can be a primary (present at admission and requires treatment or investigation) or principal (first listed) diagnosis for hospitalisation. In the USA, constipation is the second most common ambulatory care digestive diagnosis with total costs >US$1.7 billion/year. Incidence of hospitalisation for constipation in children peaks at toilet-training age. This study determined the burden of paediatric constipation to hospital care in Victoria, Australia.

METHOD

The Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset was analysed retrospectively, examining hospital admissions with a primary diagnosis of constipation in the 7-year period 2002/2003 to 2008/2009.

RESULTS

For children, constipation was recorded as a primary diagnosis in 8688 admissions (3.6/1000 of population). In-hospital prevalence was ∼1.0%. Mean length of stay was 4.4 days (median 1.0, range 0-993, standard deviation 16.7). There were 1121 readmissions in 668 children. Average treatment cost was A$4235/admission (median A$1461, range A$0-$278 816), with annual costs of ∼A$5 505 500. Children in the highest socio-economic area had ∼50% fewer admissions (P < 0.0001). Predictors of readmission included age 10-18, male gender, rural residence, severe socio-economic disadvantage, public hospital, planned admission, longer length of stay and association with other medical conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified that constipation in children is a significant cost burden in Victoria (costing public hospitals ∼A$5.5 million/year). Hospitalisation in Victoria is 10-fold higher than in the USA with 10% readmissions within a month. We conclude that strategies aimed at reducing hospitalisation for constipation could result in significant savings for the paediatric public health system in Victoria, Australia.

Knowledge and practice styles of pediatricians in Saudi Arabia regarding childhood constipation

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to evaluate knowledge and practice styles among medical providers working in 5 regions of Saudi Arabia regarding their approach to childhood constipation.

METHODS

A survey of 850 pediatric providers (PPs) conducted in 5 regions of Saudi Arabia. PPs included pediatric specialists (PSs), pediatric consultants (PCs), general practitioners (GPs), family physicians (FPs), and pediatric gastroenterologists (PGs). They were asked anonymously about definition, causes, diagnosis, and management of constipation. Information about family concerns regarding constipation and the source of constipation-related information was also collected.

RESULTS

A response rate of 73% yielded 622 questionnaires. Among respondents, 61.2% were aware of the Rome definition of functional constipation. More pediatricians (PSs and PCs) than other physicians (GPs and FPs) reported the definition of constipation correctly (P > 0.05). Stool withholding was reported as the most common cause of constipation by 27% of pediatricians (PSs and PCs), 24% of other physicians (GPs and FPs), and 50% of PGs (P = 0.097). Rectal examination was performed by 39% of all PPs and 78.6% of PGs (P = 0.009). Pediatricians prescribed lactulose significantly more often than physicians (P = 0.001). Pediatricians recommended disimpaction before maintenance treatment significantly more than other physicians (P = 0.001). Twenty-three percent of families believed that constipation was caused by a stricture and 10% feared it was caused by a malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant differences in knowledge and practice patterns exist regarding the approach to pediatric constipation. Identification of knowledge gaps may be useful to develop educational materials to improve proper diagnosis and treatment of childhood constipation.

Gastric emptying of water in children with severe functional fecal retention

The objective of this study was to evaluate gastric emptying (GE) in pediatric patients with functional constipation. GE delay has been reported in adults with functional constipation. Gastric emptying studies were performed in 22 children with chronic constipation, fecal retention and fecal incontinence, while presenting fecal retention and after resuming regular bowel movements. Patients (18 boys, median age: 10 years; range: 7.2 to 12.7 years) were evaluated in a tertiary pediatric gastroenterology clinic. Gastric half-emptying time of water (reference range: 12 ± 3 min) was measured using a radionuclide technique immediately after first patient evaluation, when they presented fecal impaction (GE₁), and when they achieved regular bowel movements (GE₂), 12 ± 5 weeks after GE₁. At study admission, 21 patients had reported dyspeptic symptoms, which were completely relieved after resuming regular bowel movements. Medians (and interquartile ranges) for GE₁ and GE₂ were not significantly different [27.0 (16) and 27.5 (21) min, respectively (P = 0.10)]. Delayed GE seems to be a common feature among children with chronic constipation and fecal retention. Resuming satisfactory bowel function and improvement in dyspeptic symptoms did not result in normalization of GE data.

Cow's Milk Allergy Is a Major Contributor in Recurrent Perianal Dermatitis of Infants

Background. Recurrent perianal inflammation has great etiologic diversity. A possible cause is cow's milk allergy (CMA). The aim was to assess the magnitude of this cause. Subjects and Methods. This follow up clinical study was carried out on 63 infants with perianal dermatitis of more than 3 weeks with history of recurrence. Definitive diagnosis was made for each infant through medical history taking, clinical examination and investigations including stool analysis and culture, stool pH and reducing substances, perianal swab for different cultures and staining for Candida albicans. Complete blood count and quantitative determination of cow's milk-specific serum IgE concentration were done for all patients. CMA was confirmed through an open withdrawal-rechallenge procedure. Serum immunoglobulins and CD markers as well as gastrointestinal endoscopies were done for some patients. Results. Causes of perianal dermatitis included CMA (47.6%), bacterial dermatitis (17.46%), moniliasis (15.87%), enterobiasis (9.52%) and lactose intolerance (9.5%). Predictors of CMA included presence of bloody and/or mucoid stool, other atopic manifestations, anal fissures, or recurrent vomiting. Conclusion. We can conclude that cow's milk allergy is a common cause of recurrent perianal dermatitis. Mucoid or bloody stool, anal fissures or ulcers, vomiting and atopic manifestations can predict this etiology.

Long-term effects of transabdominal electrical stimulation in treating children with slow-transit constipation

AIMS

Transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TES) was used to treat children with slow-transit constipation (STC) for 1 to 2 months in a randomized controlled trial during 2006 to 2008. We aimed to determine long-term outcomes, hypothesizing that TES produced sustained improvement.

METHODS

Physiotherapists administered 1 to 2 months of TES to 39 children (20 minutes, 3 times a week). Fifteen continued to self-administer TES (30 minutes daily for more than 2 months). Mean long-term follow-up of 30 of 39 patients was conducted using questionnaire review 3.5 years (range 1.9-4.7 years) later. Outcomes were evaluated by confidence intervals or paired t test.

RESULTS

Seventy-three percent of patients perceived improvement, lasting more than 2 years in 33% and less than 6 months in 25% to 33%. Defecation frequency improved in 30%. Stools got wetter in 62% after stimulation and then drier again. Soiling improved in 75% and abdominal pain in 59%. Laxative use stopped in 52%, and 43% with appendicostomies stopped washouts. Soiling/Holschneider continence score improved in 81% (P = .0002). Timed sits switched to urge-initiated defecations in 80% patients. Eighty percent of relapsed patients elected to have home stimulation.

CONCLUSION

TES holds promise for STC children. Improvement occurred in two thirds of children, lasting more than 2 years in one third, whereas symptoms recurred after 6 months in one third of children.

Long-term efficacy of low-dose tricyclic antidepressants for children with functional gastrointestinal disorders

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the long-term efficacy of the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) drugs amitriptyline or imipramine in treating functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in pediatric patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review of children with a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, and functional abdominal pain diagnosed on the basis of the Rome III criteria was performed. Charts were analyzed for response to the medication and the duration of the response.

RESULTS

A total of 98 patients took a TCA for an FGID. Of the 98 patients, 77 patients (78.6%) responded to the treatment for an average of 10.73 (range 1-45) months.

CONCLUSIONS

TCAs are effective in treating FGIDs in pediatric patients for a long duration.

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OBJETIVO: Rever a literatura sobre o uso do polietile-noglicol no tratamento da constipação intestinal crônica funcional em crianças. FONTES DOS DADOS: Foram selecionadas publicações entre 1998 e 2009, utilizando as bases de dados Medline e SciELO. Foram incluídos estudos relevantes referentes à constipação, ao uso do polietilenoglicol em adultos, a diretriz recente da NASPGHAN e os critérios de ROMA III relativos às doenças intestinais funcionais. SÍNTESE DOS DADOS: O tratamento da constipação intestinal em crianças é dividido em várias etapas não consecutivas. O uso prolongado de laxativos é uma dessas etapas; no entanto, as opções terapêuticas são restritas. Os efeitos adversos e a dificuldade de aceitação pela criança são os principais problemas que surgem com o uso prolongado de laxativos. O polietilenoglicol é um laxativo osmótico utilizado para o tratamento da constipação, com absorção de 0,2%, insípido e inodoro, disponível com os pesos moleculares 3350 e 4000 Dalton, com ou sem adição de eletrólitos. Estudos randomizados e controlados demonstraram ser o polietilenoglicol um agente efetivo na melhora dos sintomas, além de ser seguro, pois não foram relatados efeitos colaterais significativos. CONCLUSÕES: O polietilenoglicol é superior aos outros agentes osmóticos em relação ao sabor e à aceitação pelas crianças. O uso diário é seguro e efetivo e pode ser considerado uma opção terapêu-tica na constipação intestinal crônica funcional em pediatria.

Modification of stool's water content in constipated infants: management with an adapted infant formula

Background

Constipation is a common occurrence in formula-fed infants. The aim of this preliminary study was to evaluate the impact of a formula with high levels of lactose and magnesium, in compliance with the official regulations, on stool water content, as well as a parental assessment of constipation.

Materials and methods

Thirty healthy term-born, formula-fed infants, aged 4-10 weeks, with functional constipation were included. All infants were full-term and fed standard formula. Exclusion criteria were preterm and/or low birth weight, organic constipation, being breast fed or fed a formula specially designed to treat constipation. Stool composition was measured by near-infrared reflectance analysis (NIRA) and parents answered questions about crying associated with defecation and stool consistency at baseline and after two weeks of the adapted formula.

Results

After 2 weeks of the adapted formula, stool water content increased from 71 +/- 8.1% to 84 +/- 5.9%, (p < 0.02). There was no significant change in the stool's fat, protein or carbohydrate content. Parental impressions of constipation were improved with the decrease in stool hardness (100% with hard stools at baseline, 10% after 2 weeks), pain with defecation (90% at baseline, 10% after 2 weeks), and the requirement for rectal stimulation to achieve defecation (70% at baseline, 30% after 2 weeks, p < 0.001 for all three indicators).

Conclusions

This preliminary study suggests that an adapted formula with high levels of lactose and magnesium increases stool water content and improves symptoms of constipation in term-born, formula-fed infants. A larger randomized placebo-controlled trial is indicated.

Prospective evaluation of dietary treatment in childhood constipation: high dietary fiber and wheat bran intake are associated with constipation amelioration

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to evaluate, over 24 months, the intake of dietary fiber (DF) and the bowel habit (BH) of constipated children advised a DF-rich diet containing wheat bran.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

BH and dietary data of 28 children with functional constipation defined by the "Boston criteria" were obtained at visit 1 (V1, n = 28) and at 4 follow-up visits (V2-V5, n = 80). At each visit the BH was rated BAD (worse/unaltered; improved but still complications) or RECOVERY (REC) (improved, no complications; asymptomatic), and a food intake questionnaire was applied. DF intake was calculated according to age (year) + 5 to 10 g/day and bran intake according to international tables. Nonparametric statistics were used.

RESULTS

Median age (range) was 7.25 years (0.25-15.6 years); 21 children underwent bowel washout (most before V1/V2), and 14 had the last visit at V3/V4. DF intake, bran intake, and the BH rate significantly increased at V2 and remained higher than at V1 through V2 to V5. At V1, median DF intake was 29.9% below the minimum recommended and at the last visit 49.9% above it. Twenty-four children accepted bran at 60 visits, at which median bran intake was 20 g/day and median proportion of DF due to bran 26.9%. Children had significantly higher DF and higher bran intake at V2 to V5 at which they had REC than at those at which they presented BAD BH. DF intake > age +10 g/day was associated with bran acceptance and REC. At the last visit 21 children presented REC (75%); 20 of them were asymptomatic and 18 were off washout/laxatives.

CONCLUSIONS

High DF and bran intake are feasible in constipated children and contribute to amelioration of constipation.

Constipation in children: novel insight into epidemiology, pathophysiology and management

Constipation in children is a common health problem affecting 0.7% to 29.6% children across the world. Exact etiology for developing symptoms is not clear in children and the majority is considered to have functional constipation. Alteration of rectal and pelvic floor function through the brain-gut axis seems to play a crucial role in the etiology. The diagnosis is often a symptom-based clinical process. Recently developed Rome III diagnostic criteria looks promising, both in clinical and research fields. Laboratory investigations such as barium enema, colonoscopy, anorectal manometry and colonic transit studies are rarely indicated except in those who do not respond to standard management. Treatment of childhood constipation involves several facets including education and demystification, toilet training, rational use of laxatives for disimpaction and maintenance and regular follow-up. Surgical options should be considered only when medical therapy fails in long standing constipation. Since most of the management strategies of childhood constipation are not evidence-based, high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to assess the efficacy of currently available or newly emerging therapeutic options. Contrary to the common belief that children outgrow constipation as they grow up, a sizable percentage continue to have symptoms beyond puberty.

Recalled and recorded bowel habits confirm early onset and high frequency of constipation in day-care nursery children

CONTEXT

Mothers recall early-onset constipation in children attending gastroenterology clinics.

OBJECTIVES

To study the bowel habit of young children in the community to determine, first, whether early-onset constipation is confirmed in this setting and, second, the agreement between recalled and recorded bowel habit.

METHODS

Defecation data of 57 children aged 6.0-40.7 mo were obtained by maternal recall (questionnaire on predominant stool characteristics) and by record (1,934 defecations registered prospectively at home and in the nursery). The bowel habit was classified according to stool frequency and proportion of stool characteristics (soft, hard and/or runny). Two criteria were used to classify recorded data, since the cutoff point for hard stools to identify constipation is undefined in children: predominant criterion and adult criterion, respectively with >50% and >25% of stools with altered consistency. Bowel habit categories were: adequate, constipation, functional diarrhea and 'other bowel habit'. Nonparametric statistics, and the Kappa index for agreement between recalled and recorded bowel habit, were used.

RESULTS

Constipation occurred in 17.5%, 10.5%, 19.3% of the children by recall, the predominant and the adult criteria, respectively. Constipation was the main recalled alteration, vs 12.3% 'other bowel habit'. Only one child classified as having functional diarrhea (by the adult criterion). Agreement between recalled and recorded bowel habit was fair for constipation, by the predominant and the adult criteria (K = 0.28 and 0.24, respectively), but only slight (K <0.16) for other bowel habit categories. Individual data, however, pointed to a better relationship between recalled constipation and the adult rather than the predominant criterion.

CONCLUSIONS

Frequent early-onset constipation was confirmed. Fair agreement between recalled and recorded constipation by the two used criteria indicates that recalled data are quite reliable to detect constipation.

Multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of amitriptyline in children with functional gastrointestinal disorders

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There are no prospective, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized pharmacologic trials for the treatment of pain-predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of amitriptyline in children with pain-predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders.

METHODS

In this multicenter placebo-controlled trial, children with irritable bowel syndrome, functional abdominal pain, or functional dyspepsia were randomized to 4 weeks of placebo or amitriptyline (10 mg/d, weight <35 kg; 20 mg/d, weight >35 kg). Assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms, psychological traits, and daily activities occurred before and after intervention. Pain was assessed daily with self-report diaries. The primary outcome was overall response to treatment (child's assessment of pain relief and sense of improvement). Secondary outcomes were effect on psychosocial traits and daily functioning.

RESULTS

Ninety children were enrolled, and 83 completed the study (placebo, 40 children [30 girls]; drug, 43 children [35 girls]). A total of 63% of patients reported feeling better and 5% feeling worse in the amitriptyline arm compared with 57.5% feeling better and 2.5% feeling worse in the placebo arm (P = .63). Pain relief was excellent in 7% and good in 38% of children receiving placebo compared with excellent in 15% and good in 35% of children treated with amitriptyline (P = .85). Logistic regression analysis of those reporting excellent or good response versus fair, poor, or failed response showed no difference between amitriptyline and placebo (P = .83). Children who had more severe pain at baseline in both groups (P = .0065) had worse outcome. Amitriptyline reduced anxiety scores (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both amitriptyline and placebo were associated with excellent therapeutic response. There was no significant difference between amitriptyline and placebo after 4 weeks of treatment. Patients with mild to moderate intensity of pain responded better to treatment.

Altered bile acid metabolism in childhood functional constipation: inactivation of secretory bile acids by sulfation in a subset of patients

OBJECTIVE

An elevated concentration in the colon of the primary bile acid chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) or the secondary bile acid deoxycholic acid (DCA) is known to induce water secretion, causing diarrhea. We hypothesized that of the many fecal bile acids, only CDCA and DCA function as endogenous laxatives; therefore, a decrease in their proportion may be a cause of childhood functional constipation. To test this possibility, fecal bile acid composition was determined in children with functional constipation and in nonconstipated control children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fecal samples were obtained from 207 children, 103 with functional constipation and 104 with normal bowel habits. Bile acid classes were determined by use of electrospray ionization-single ion monitoring-mass spectrometry (ESI-SIM-MS), and individual bile acids were measured by gas chromatography (GC)-MS (GC-MS). The structure of individual sulfated bile acids was obtained by use of liquid chromatography (LC)-MS (LC-MS).

RESULTS

By ESI-SIM-MS, the proportions of DCA did not differ in constipated children (n = 73) from that in control children (n = 92), but monosulfated dihydroxy bile acids were greater (P < 0.05). The difference was attributable to 6 patients in the constipated group whose major fecal bile acid by LC-MS was the 3-sulfate of CDCA. Sulfation of CDCA is known to abolish its secretory activity. By GC-MS, the bile acid profile was identical in the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In most children with functional constipation, the fecal bile acid profile seems to be normal. There is a small subset of children, however, whose dominant fecal bile acid is the 3-sulfate of CDCA, indicating a novel disturbance in bile acid metabolism. Such sulfation abolishes the secretory activity of CDCA and may contribute to constipation.

Aggressiveness and hostility in the family environment and chronic constipation in children

OBJECTIVE

To compare the emotional aspects of children with and without constipation.

METHODOLOGY

Some emotional aspects were studied in children with and without constipation. A nonstructured interview was performed with the mothers regarding the emotional aspects of their children. The children were asked to tell a story based on the observation of a board from the thematic children apperception test. This is a qualitative study using the technique of constant comparison.

RESULTS

In the interview with the mothers of constipated children.

CONCLUSION

In the children with constipation a higher prevalence of some emotional aspects was observed.

Gallbladder motility in children with chronic constipation

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate gallbladder motility in constipated children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on pediatric patients with refractory constipation examined in a pediatric gastroenterology unit of a teaching hospital between January 2005 and August 2006. All of the patients seen during the period were included (age range, 2-16 years). The control group, matched for sex and age, was selected among patients seen at the same basic health units where patients were seen before being referred to pediatric gastroenterologists. A gallbladder contractility index was calculated based on fasting and postprandial gallbladder areas, using an ultrasonographic method. Ultrasonography studies were performed prospectively and blindly by the same physician. Measurements obtained in patients were compared with those obtained in controls.

RESULTS

A total of 132 constipated children and the same number of healthy controls were included in the study. Median and mean fasting gallbladder areas were similar in patients and controls. Postprandial gallbladder areas were larger in the patient group, mean +/- SD = 594.8 +/- 206.4 mm, median, 562.5 mm, than in the control group, mean +/- SD = 541.1 +/- 156.1 mm, median, 530.5 mm; P = .031. Logistic regression showed that the risk of a contractility index <25% was 5.2 times greater in patients (odds ratio [OR] 5.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.5-10.81) than in controls. Age was found to be a protective factor (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.71-0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

Gallbladder motility disorder was identified in a group of children with severe constipation. This finding may contribute to the understanding of functional constipation in children.

Características clínicas de pacientes pediátricos com constipação crônica de acordo com o grupo etário

RACIONAL: Não existem estudos avaliando as características clínicas de constipação de acordo com os grupos etários pediátricos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características da constipação crônica de acordo com o grupo etário. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo para avaliar informações demográficas e características clínicas de pacientes pediátricos atendidos em ambulatório especializado entre maio de 1995 e dezembro de 2002. Os dados obtidos foram analisados de acordo com o grupo etário (lactentes, pré-escolares, escolares e adolescentes). RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 561 pacientes, predominando o grupo etário de pré-escolares (42,9%), seguido de escolares (26,9%), lactentes (19,1%) e adolescentes (11,0%). Não se observou diferença estatisticamente significante entre os gêneros nas quatro faixas etárias. Menos que três evacuações por semana foi observado em maior percentual nos pré-escolares (65,8%) e escolares (59,6%) do que nos lactentes (52,4%) e adolescentes (43,1%). Escape fecal foi observado em 75,6% dos pré-escolares com idade maior do que 48 meses, 68,2% dos escolares e 76,7% dos adolescentes. Maior freqüência de escape fecal no gênero masculino (80,7%) do que no feminino (50,0%) foi observada apenas no grupo etário de escolares. Comportamento de retenção (67,6%, 40,7%, 27,2%), medo de defecar (70,2%, 44,2%, 29,7%) e dor abdominal (80,8%, 69,6%, 73,6%) foram observados, respectivamente, com maior freqüência nos pré-escolares do que nos escolares e adolescentes. CONCLUSÃO: Observaram-se diferenças nas características clínicas de pacientes com constipação crônica segundo o grupo etário, no entanto, em todas as faixas etárias observou-se duração prolongada da queixa de constipação e elevada freqüência de complicações como dor abdominal e escape fecal.

Prevalence rates for constipation and faecal and urinary incontinence

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence rates for constipation and faecal and urinary incontinence in children attending primary care clinics in the United States.

METHODS

Retrospective review of case records of all children, 4-17 years of age, seen for at least one health maintenance visit during a 6 month period and followed from birth or within the first 6 months of age in our clinics. We reviewed all charts for constipation, faecal incontinence and urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

We included 482 children in the study, after excluding 39 children with chronic diseases. The prevalence rate for constipation was 22.6% and was similar in boys and girls. The constipation was functional in 18% and acute in 4.6%. The prevalence rate for faecal incontinence (> or =1/week) was 4.4%. The faecal incontinence was associated with constipation in 95% of our children. The prevalence rate for urinary incontinence was 10.5%; 3.3% for daytime only, 1.8% for daytime with night-time and 5.4% for night-time urinary incontinence. Faecal and urinary incontinence were significantly more commonly observed in children with constipation than in children without constipation.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence rates were 22.6% for constipation, 4.4% for faecal incontinence and 10.5% for urinary incontinence in a US primary care clinic. Children with constipation had higher prevalence rates for faecal and urinary incontinence than children without constipation. Boys with constipation had higher rates of faecal incontinence than girls with constipation.

Fiber intake, constipation, and overweight among adolescents living in Sao Paulo City

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the dietary fiber intake of adolescents in the metropolitan area of Sao Paulo city and any association between low dietary fiber intake with constipation and overweight.

METHODS

In total, 716 adolescents were included within the study, of whom 314 attended private school and 402 attended public school. Evaluation of fiber intake was based on a 24-h daily intake record and a frequency questionnaire. Data concerning bowel movements and height and weight measurements were also taken.

RESULTS

Fiber consumption, below that recommended ("age + 5"), was found in 61.8% and 41.4% (P = 0.000) of girls attending private and public schools, respectively, and in 44.1% and 25.6% of boys (P = 0.001). Adolescents who did not eat beans on more than 4 d/wk presented a higher risk of fiber intake below that recommended (age + 5; P < 0.05), with odds ratios ranging from 10.4 to 14.2 according gender and private or public schooling. Dietary fiber intake below that recommended was associated with a greater risk (P < 0.05) toward overweight in students attending public schooling (odds ratios 2.84 and 2.95 for males and females, respectively). Low dietary fiber intake was not associated with constipation.

CONCLUSION

Intake of beans more than four times per week is associated with the appropriate level of fiber intake. Dietary fiber intake below the recommendation was not associated with constipation but was associated with being overweight among those students attending public schooling.

A prospective community-based study of gastroenterological symptoms in school-age children

INTRODUCTION

Current knowledge on the prevalence of common gastrointestinal (GI) problems is based on office-based samples or retrospective questionnaires, leading to possible bias and inaccurate estimates.

AIMS

To examine the prevalence of GI symptoms in school-age children.

IMPORTANCE

This is the first American prospective community study intended to assess the prevalence of common GI symptoms in children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All fourth- and fifth-grade students from a middle-size urban school were invited to participate in a prospective cohort pilot study by completing confidential weekly surveys. The survey included a set of 8 age-appropriate, validated questions assessing the presence and severity of abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, headaches and limb pain.

RESULTS

A total of 48 children (32 boys and 16 girls) participated in the study. Data were obtained for 16 weeks on 690 (90.5%) of 768 possible children per week. Children reported at least 1 symptom in 544 (70%) children per week. Headaches were the most common complaint (55% [range, 40%-72%] children per week). Sixty percent of children (range, 46%-89%) reported at least 1 GI symptom weekly. The overall prevalence of GI symptoms was the following: abdominal pain 46% (range, 28%-72%), nausea 28% (range, 17%-59%), constipation 18% (range, 7%-39%), diarrhea 17% (range, 11%-24%) and vomiting 5% (range, 0%-13%). None of the children missed school because of persistent GI symptoms during the study.

DISCUSSION

The investigation demonstrates the feasibility of prospective school studies in children. The high prevalence of GI symptoms not interfering with school attendance in children underscores the benign nature of such symptoms in most children.

CONCLUSION

Gastrointestinal symptoms are common somatic complaints among school-age children.

A controlled, randomized, double-blind trial to evaluate the effect of a supplement of cocoa husk that is rich in dietary fiber on colonic transit in constipated pediatric patients

OBJECTIVE

Although a diet that is rich in fiber is widely recommended for preventing and treating constipation, the efficacy of fiber supplements have not been tested sufficiently in children. Our aim with this pilot study was to evaluate if fiber supplementation is beneficial for the treatment of children with idiopathic chronic constipation.

METHODS

Using a parallel, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial, we conducted an interventional study to evaluate the efficacy of a supplement of cocoa husk rich in dietary fiber on intestinal transit time and other indices of constipation in children with constipation. After screening, the patients were randomly allocated to receive, for a period of 4 weeks, either a cocoa husk supplement or placebo plus standardized toilet training procedures. Before and after 4 weeks of treatment, we (1) performed anthropometry, a physical examination, and routine laboratory measurements, (2) determined total and segmental colonic transit time, (3) evaluated bowel movement habits and stool consistency using a diary, and (4) received a subjective evaluation from the parents regarding the efficacy of the treatment. The main variable for verifying the efficacy of the treatment was the total colonic transit time.

RESULTS

Fifty-six chronically constipated children were randomly assigned into the study, but only 48 children completed it. These children, who were aged between 3 and 10 years, had a diagnosis of chronic idiopathic constipation. With respect to total, partial colon, and rectum transit time, there seemed to be a trend, although statistically nonsignificant, toward faster transit times in the cocoa husk group than in the placebo group. When we analyzed the evolution of the intestinal transit time throughout the study of children whose total basal intestinal transit time was > 50th percentile, significant differences were observed between the groups. The total transit time decreased by 45.4 +/- 38.4 hours in the cocoa husk group and by 8.7 +/- 28.9 hours in the placebo group (-38.1 hours). In the case of the right colon, changes in transit time also were significant between groups. Mean changes tended toward faster transit times in the left colon and the rectum, although the differences were not statistically significant. The children who received cocoa husk supplements tended to increase the number of bowel movements by more than that of the children of the placebo group. We also observed a reduction in the percentage of patients who reported hard stools (hard scybalous or pebble-like stools), although this reduction was significantly greater in the cocoa husk group. At the end of the intervention, 41.7% and 75.0% of the patients who received cocoa husk supplementation or placebo, respectively, reported having hard stools. Moreover, a significantly higher number of children (or their parents) reported a subjective improvement in stool consistency. No significant adverse effects were reported during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the beneficial effect of a supplement of cocoa husk that is rich in dietary fiber on chronic idiopathic constipation in children. These benefits seem to be more evident in pediatric constipated patients with slow colonic transit time.

Prevalência de constipação em adolescentes matriculados em escolas de São José dos Campos, SP, e em seus pais

RACIONAL: Existem poucas informações a respeito da constipação em adolescentes. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de constipação em adolescentes matriculados em escolas de São José dos Campos, SP, Brasil, e a concomitância de constipação em seus pais biológicos. MÉTODOS: Neste estudo transversal foi analisada amostra de conveniência composta por alunos com idade entre 9 anos e 9 meses e 18 anos e 7 meses e seus respectivos pais biológicos em cinco escolas de São José dos Campos. Para a coleta dos dados foi utilizado um questionário individual. Foram analisados 372 adolescentes cujos pais também responderam ao questionário. Constipação foi caracterizada quando o adolescente apresentava eliminação de fezes com consistência obrigatoriamente endurecida e a ocorrência de pelo menos uma das seguintes características: dor ou dificuldade para evacuar, escape fecal e sangue em torno das fezes. Fezes com formato de cíbalos ou em pelotas grandes e secas e intervalo entre as evacuações maior ou igual a três dias foram considerados critérios que isoladamente caracterizavam constipação. Para os pais, constipação foi caracterizada de acordo com os critérios de Roma II. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de constipação nos adolescentes foi igual a 22,3%, sendo mais freqüente no sexo feminino (27,4%) do que no masculino (14,9%). Constipação nos pais (7,3%; 20/274) foi menos freqüente do que nas mães (27,3%; 88/322). Observou-se concordância muito leve quanto à concomitância de constipação no adolescente e em sua mãe (kappa = 0,12) e à concomitância de constipação no adolescente e em seu pai (kappa = 0,05). CONCLUSÕES: Constipação intestinal é um distúrbio prevalente neste grupo de adolescentes. Não se constatou concordância relevante entre constipação nos adolescentes e em seus pais biológicos.

Low-dietary fiber intake as a risk factor for recurrent abdominal pain in children

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate dietary fiber intake in children with recurrent abdominal pain.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study with control group.

SETTING

Outpatients of the Pediatric Gastroenterology public health clinic of the Darcy Vargas Children's Hospital, Brazil.

SUBJECTS

Forty-one patients with recurrent abdominal pain were evaluated and 41 children, as a control group.

INTERVENTIONS

Macronutrients and fiber intake evaluation by the Daily Food Intake method. Two tables of fiber composition in foods were used.

RESULTS

According to the Brazilian table the mean intake of fiber (g/day) by the children of the recurrent abdominal pain groups with chronic constipation or not, and the control group was, respectively, 18.2, 16.6 and 23.7 for total fiber (P=0.001), 7.5, 6.9 and 9.5 for soluble fiber (P=0.001) and 10.7, 9.7 and 14.1 for insoluble fiber (P=0.002). According to the AOAC table, the recurrent abdominal pain group with chronic constipation or not (10.6 and 9.9 g/day) also had lower intake of total fiber than the control group (13.4 g/day) (P=0.008). The intake of fiber was lower than the minimum recommended value (age+5 g) and statistically associated (P=0.021) with the recurrent abdominal pain group (78%) in comparison with the control one (51.2%). The odds ratio was 3.39 (95% CI, 1.18-9.95).

CONCLUSION

fiber intake below the minimum recommended value is a risk factor for recurrent abdominal pain in children.

Aerophagia and anesthesia: an unusual cause of ventilatory insufficiency in a neonate

We describe a healthy neonate with abdominal distention, inadequate ventilation, and delayed extubation during anesthesia for minor surgery. Following rectal decompression and successful extubation, extreme abdominal distention recurred postoperatively after ingestion of clear fluids. We elicited a history of frequent and excessive flatus from the parents, and abdominal radiography revealed distended loops of small bowel with small lung volumes suggestive of aerophagia. The differential diagnosis of aerophagia is reviewed, the anesthetic implications discussed, and relevant literature pertaining to this condition summarized.

Breath hydrogen test after a bean meal demonstrates delayed oro-cecal transit time in children with chronic constipation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate oro-cecal transit time in children with chronic constipation.

METHODS

34 patients with chronic functional constipation age 3 to 13 years and 15 controls without constipation. Oro-cecal transit time was evaluated using the hydrogen breath test after ingestion of lactulose and after a standard meal of cooked beans. Total and segmental colonic transit times were measured with radiopaque markers.

RESULTS

Of 34 patients with chronic constipation 61.8% had increased total colonic transit time (>62 hours). Oro-cecal transit time measured with lactulose as substrate was similar (p=0.727) in constipated patients with increased colonic transit time (63.8+/-16.3 minutes), in constipated patients with normal colonic transit time (66.9+/-22.9 minutes), and in controls (65.3+/-15.5 minutes). Using a test meal of beans, the hydrogen breath test showed that oro-cecal transit time of constipated patients with increased total colon transit time was higher (252.4+/-23.2 minutes) than oro-cecal transit time of constipated patients with normal colonic transit time (227.7+/-39.6 minutes) or controls (205.3+/-23.3 minutes) (p<.05).

CONCLUSION

Hydrogen excretion in breath after a bean test meal showed delayed oro-cecal transit time in children with chronic constipation with abnormal total colonic transit time.

Breath methane associated with slow colonic transit time in children with chronic constipation

OBJECTIVE

This study analyzed the relationship between methane production and colonic transit time in children with chronic constipation.

METHODOLOGY

Forty children, from 3 to 13 years of age, suffering from chronic constipation were included. Methane production was defined when the breath methane concentration was greater than 3 ppm. The total and segmental colonic transit times were measured with radio-opaque markers.

RESULTS

Soiling was present in 34 (85.0%) of 40 patients with constipation. Methane production was present in 25 of 34 (73.5%) patients with constipation and soiling and only in 1 (16.7%) of 6 with constipation but without soiling (P = 0.014). The medians of total colonic transit time were 80.5 and 61.0 hours, respectively (P = 0.04), in methane and nonmethane producers. Segmental colonic transit times were 17.5 and 10.5 hours, respectively (P = 0.580), in right colon, 29.5 and 10.5 hours (P = 0.001), respectively, in left colon, and 31.5 and 27.0 hours (P = 0.202), respectively, in the rectosigmoid. By the sixth week of treatment, the reduction in the total colonic transit time was greater in patients who had become nonmethane producers.

CONCLUSION

The presence of breath methane in children with chronic constipation may suggest the possibility of prolonged colonic transit time.