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Fedele F, Fioretti MT, Scarpato E, Martinelli M, Strisciuglio C, Miele E. The ten "hard" questions in pediatric functional constipation. Ital J Pediatr 2024; 50:64. [PMID: 38649896 PMCID: PMC11036569 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-024-01623-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Functional constipation is a common problem in childhood and has a great impact on social, physical, and emotional functioning of affected children and their caregivers. No organic cause of the constipation can be found in approximately 95% of children, defining the "so-called" chronic functional constipation. Its prevalence has been reported to range from 0.7 to 29.6%, with a median of 12%. The diagnosis of functional constipation is exclusively clinical based on the pediatric diagnostic Rome criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders and does not routinely require laboratory and/or radiological investigations. In case of alarm signs and symptoms that may suggest organic diseases, further investigations can be required. The therapeutic management is based on non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches. Education, demystification of constipation and reward-based toilet training represent the cornerstones of nonpharmacological management. Disimpaction, maintenance treatment and weaning of medication are all elements of pharmacological treatment. Osmotic laxatives, mainly polyethylene glycol (PEG), are considered the first-choice laxative for both disimpaction and maintenance treatment. The aim of this review is to provide pediatric gastroenterologists with a practical tool to support the clinical and therapeutic management of children and adolescents affected by chronic functional constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Fedele
- Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Fioretti
- Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Scarpato
- Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimo Martinelli
- Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Caterina Strisciuglio
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Erasmo Miele
- Department of Translational Medical Science, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Alfonso RMJ, Rubí IAK, Manuel TME, Roberto CB, Alejandra RCM, de Jesús MVI, Gabriela AGA, Vladimir BND, Lucía CG, Antonio CBJ, Sergio DM, Esther FFL, Manuel Enrique GPM, Ileana GCJ, Elena HHR, Elena LRA, Héctor MA, Carlos MN, José Antonio OM, Iván OGC, Rubén PV, Nicolás RMJ, Del Mar SDOGM, Gerardo SM, Eugenia URM, Liliana WD, Hideo WKG, Yvan V. Mexican consensus on cow's milk protein allergy. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2024; 52:24-37. [PMID: 38186191 DOI: 10.15586/aei.v52i1.958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to present the current views of a diverse group of experts on the diagnosis and treatment of Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) in children under 2 years of age in Mexico. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study, led by a scientific committee of five experts in CMPA, was divided into six phases, including a modified Delphi process. A total of 20 panelists, all of whom were pediatric specialists, participated in administering a comprehensive 38-item questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into two blocks: Diagnosis and Treatment (20 items each). RESULTS Consensus was reached on all the proposed items, with an agreement rate of over 70% for each of them. As a result, a diagnostic and treatment algorithm was developed that emphasized the reduction of unnecessary diagnostic studies and encouraged breastfeeding whenever possible. In cases where breast milk is not available, appropriate use of hypoallergenic formulas was recommended. In addition, recommendations on treatment duration and gradual reintroduction of cow's milk protein were provided. CONCLUSIONS The recommendations endorsed by 20 Mexican pediatricians through this study are applicable to everyday clinical practice, thereby enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of children under 2 years of age with CMPA. This, in turn, will foster improved health outcomes and optimize the utilization of healthcare resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Casas Guzik Lucía
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hospital Infantil de Morelia Eva Sámano de López Mateos, Morelia, México
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Méndez Nieto Carlos
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hospital Infantil de Especialidades, Ciudad Juárez, Mexico
| | | | | | - Peña Vélez Rubén
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hospital General de Puebla Dr. Eduardo Vázquez N., Puebla, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Vandenplas Yvan
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, KidZ Health Castle, UZ Brussel; Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Steurbaut L, Levy EI, De Geyter C, Buyse S, Vandenplas Y. A narrative review on the diagnosis and management of constipation in infants. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:769-783. [PMID: 37501219 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2242255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Functional constipation is one of the common disorders of gut-brain interaction in infancy, and decreases the quality of life of infants and parents. AREAS COVERED Relevant articles up to November 2022 were reviewed. We searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE for guidelines, position papers, reviews, and randomized controlled trials on infant constipation. EXPERT OPINION Randomized controlled trials in this specific age group are mostly limited to trials with infant formula. The prevalence of infant constipation in formula-fed infants is decreasing, and can be associated with adaptations in formula composition. While the supplementation of infant formula with pro-, pre- and/or synbiotics decreases the prevalence of constipation, their efficacy in constipated infants is disappointing. There is limited evidence to support the addition of magnesium to infant formula to treat constipation. The evidence for the efficacy and safety of polyethylene glycol in children < 2 years has expanded over the past years. The administration of lactulose or polyethylene glycol is the preferred medical management, in case nutritional management does result in insufficient improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurine Steurbaut
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elvira Ingrid Levy
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pediatrics, C.H.U. Saint-Pieter, Free University of Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Charlotte De Geyter
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Yvan Vandenplas
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), UZ Brussel, KidZ Health Castle, Brussels, Belgium
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Salvatore S, Battigaglia MS, Murone E, Dozio E, Pensabene L, Agosti M. Dietary Fibers in Healthy Children and in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Practical Guide. Nutrients 2023; 15:2208. [PMID: 37432354 DOI: 10.3390/nu15092208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary fibers include non-digestible plant carbohydrates, lignin and resistant starch. Dietary fibers provide immune, cardiovascular, metabolic and intestinal beneficial effects in humans. Fibers naturally present in foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, cereals) or used as supplements have different physical, chemical and functional profiles. This narrative review provides an update to the knowledge on the effects of dietary fibers in healthy subjects and in children with gastrointestinal disorders. Soluble fibers are digested by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids and energy for colonocytes, and may exert prebiotic effects that promote the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Non-soluble fibers are bulking agents and may improve intestinal transit. The exact amount and characteristics of the fiber requirement in infants and children need to be further established. There are limited data evaluating fibers in children with gastrointestinal disorders. The low intake of fibers has been associated with constipation, but the intake of excessive fibers is not recommended as it may cause flatulence and abdominal discomfort. Certain fibers (particularly psyllium in irritable bowel syndrome) have shown beneficial effects in children with gastrointestinal disorders, but the limited and heterogenous data do not currently allow a specific recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Salvatore
- Pediatric Department, Hospital "F. Del Ponte", Via F. Del Ponte 19, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Maria Serena Battigaglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Elena Murone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Eugenia Dozio
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Licia Pensabene
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Massimo Agosti
- Pediatric Department, Hospital "F. Del Ponte", Via F. Del Ponte 19, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
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Sissoko NDN, Chen W, Wang C, Wu Y, Zheng X, Dong X, Lib M, Yang H. Associations between functional constipation and non-IgE-mediated food allergy in infants and children. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2023; 51:163-173. [PMID: 37169574 DOI: 10.15586/aei.v51i3.738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The non-IgE-mediated food allergy (non-IgE-FA) is less prevalent than IgE-mediated food allergy, and their relationship with functional constipation (FC) needs to be clarified. METHODS A total of 305 infants and children with constipation treated in the Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, from July 2020 to December 2021 were included in this study. Four cases with organic lesions were excluded. Among 301 diagnosed with FC, according to ROME IV criteria, 81 cases with allergy-related indicators were further evaluated for food allergy by food-specific IgG antibody test, allergen- specific IgE antibody detection, skin prick test, and food avoidance and reintroduction. RESULTS A total of 45 cases with FC were diagnosed with food allergy, and the incidence rate was 15%. Among the 45 patients, 35 cases (77.8%) had FC with non-IgE-FA. The main clinical symptoms or signs included anal fissure, abdominal pain, and pain during defecation. The most prevalent allergic foods were cow's milk, eggs, fish, and shrimp. Ten (22.2%) cases reported FC with mixed food allergy, including both non-IgE-mediated and IgE-mediated food allergy. This study focused on non-IgE-mediated food allergy-related FC. CONCLUSION Our results showed that the incidence of food allergy in infants and children with FC was 15%, which was mainly mediated by non-IgE-FA. The main clinical symptoms or signs in these cases included anal fissure, abdominal pain, and pain during defecation, and the main allergens included milk, eggs, fish, and shrimp.
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Affiliation(s)
- N'bamori Dite Naba Sissoko
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenxin Chen
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chenhui Wang
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinguo Zheng
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xueting Dong
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mei Lib
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, ChinaNursing Department, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China;
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