Functional gastrointestinal disorders: History taking skills in practice

Mechanisms of microbiota modulation: Implications for health, disease, and therapeutic interventions

Microbiota modulation, the intentional change in the structure and function of the microbial community, is an emerging trajectory that holds the promise to mitigate an infinite number of health issues. The present review illustrates the underlying principles of microbiota modulation and the various applications of this fundamental process to human health, healthcare management, and pharmacologic interventions. Different strategies, directing on dietary interventions, fecal microbiota transplantation, treatment with antibiotics, bacteriophages, microbiome engineering, and modulation of the immune system, are described in detail. This therapeutic implication is reflected in clinical applications to gastrointestinal disorders and immune-mediated diseases for microbiota-modulating agents. In addition to this, the review outlines the challenges of translating researched outcomes into clinical practice to consider safety and provides insights into future research directions of this rapidly developing area.

Unmasking the Invisible: A Case Study of Aspiration Pneumonia Unveiling a Bronchoesophageal Fistula

Bronchoesophageal fistula (BEF) is a rare, yet clinically significant, condition characterized by an abnormal connection between the bronchial tree and the esophagus. We present the case of a 25-year-old female who initially presented with symptoms of aspiration pneumonitis and was subsequently diagnosed with BEF, attributed to poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. Despite initial attempts at palliative intervention through esophageal stent placement, persistent symptoms prompted further investigation, revealing the underlying malignancy. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges associated with BEF, particularly when malignancy is involved, and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in optimizing patient outcomes. Early recognition, thorough evaluation, and comprehensive oncological management are essential in addressing the clinical complexities posed by BEF. Further research is warranted to better understand the pathophysiology and optimal management strategies for this rare but clinically significant condition.

Psychological treatment for pediatric functional abdominal pain disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to discuss up-to-date psychological treatment strategies for functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) with practical implications for primary care providers who are the "front line" of treatment for pediatric FAPD.

RECENT FINDINGS

Positive diagnosis, pain education, and access to multidisciplinary care improve outcomes for FAPD patients. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and hypnosis continue to have the strongest evidence in psychological treatments, but educational interventions and other nonpharmacological approaches show promise as well. There are innovative programs that combine these tools into group or internet-based treatments to expand access to care. Additionally, nonpharmacological tools, including neurostimulation and virtual reality programs, are increasing in popularity.

SUMMARY

FAPD is prevalent across pediatric practices, yet there is no standard medical or dietary approach, and there are many barriers to diagnosis and treatment. It is important for patients to have positive encounters around diagnosis and education, access to multidisciplinary care, and integrated psychological support. Consistently, studies show that psychology continues to be a vital component of care. This review discusses supported uses of psychology, innovative programming for increasing access to care, and how primary care providers can incorporate lessons learned from psychology in FAPD care.

VIDEO ABSTRACT

http://links.lww.com/MOP/A67 .

Diet, Digestion, and the Dietitian: A Survey of Clinicians' Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices to Advance the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disturbances in Individuals with Anorexia Nervosa

Despite advances in treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN), current therapeutic approaches do not fully consider gastrointestinal disturbances (GID), often present in AN. Addressing GID, both symptoms and disorders, is likely to improve treatment adherence and outcomes in people with AN. GID are complex and are linked to a range of factors related to eating disorder symptomology and can be impacted by nutritional treatment. It is not known which dietetic practices are currently used to address GID in AN. Therefore, this survey aimed to explore the perceived knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Australian dietitians treating AN and co-occurring GID. Seventy dietitians participated by completing an online survey. Knowledge scores were calculated based on correct responses to knowledge items (total: 12 points); and two groups were generated: higher knowledge (≥10 points, n = 31) and lower knowledge (≤9 points, n = 39). A greater proportion of dietitians with higher knowledge recognized the role of GID in pathogenesis of AN (p = 0.002) and its impact on quality of life (p = 0.013) and screened for GID (p ≤ 0.001), compared with those with lower knowledge. These results suggest that attitudes and practices toward patients presenting with AN and GID differ depending on level of knowledge. This may have important implications for treatment outcomes for individuals with AN and GID.

Colonic Volvulus in Children: Surgical Management of a Challenging Condition

Colonic volvulus (CV) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition with unclear etiopathogenesis. To date, less than 80 pediatric cases have been described. Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) is associated with CV in 17% of cases, representing a significant risk factor. Non-HD CV is an even more complex entity. The aim of this study is to describe a series of patients with CV to accentuate some peculiar aspects of this disease. We performed a retrospective study (period: 2012–2021) collecting information of patients with CV. Data analyzed included: demographics, medical history, presenting symptoms and radiological and surgical details. Eleven patients (12.5 ± 2.8 years; 7F/4M) had CV (eight sigmoid, two transverse colon, one total colon). Five patients had associated anomalies and three had HD. A two-step approach with volvulus endoscopic/radiological detorsion followed by intestinal resection was attempted in eight cases (one endoscopic approach failed). Three patients required surgery at admission. At follow-up, two patients developed recurrent intestinal obstruction, one of whom also had anastomotic stenosis. Colonic volvulus is a challenging condition that requires prompt patient care. A missed diagnosis could lead to severe complications. The evaluation of the patient should include a careful histological examination (searching for HD and alpha-actin deficiency), immunologic and metabolic screening, neurological tests and detection of chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO). Lifelong follow-up is mandatory for the early recognition and treatment of progressive diseases involving the proximal gastrointestinal tract.