Navigating through 65 years of insights: lessons learned on functional abdominal pain in children.

In 1958, Apley and Naish authored a groundbreaking paper in Archives of Disease in Childhood, elucidating the epidemiology and risk factors of recurrent abdominal pain in children-a subject that had confounded clinicians of their time. Surprisingly, even after 65 years, there are several unanswered questions regarding the etiology, pathophysiology, and management of pediatric abdominal pain. Contrary to the prevailing notion that children naturally outgrow functional abdominal pain, compelling evidence suggests it's possible these children develop a number of clinically significant psychological issues that could profoundly impact their quality of life and, consequently, future health and educational outcomes. In this light, we aimed to comprehensively review the current literature to update the knowledge of practicing clinicians on functional abdominal pain, summarizing the evidence from the last 65 years.Conclusion: The enduring unanswered questions surrounding childhood abdominal pain continue to challenge clinicians, resulting in unnecessary investigations, thereby contributing to substantial healthcare expenditures. It is also evident that children with long-standing symptoms would progress to adulthood with the potential to develop irritable bowel syndrome and many psychological disturbances. Several key interventions using pharmacological agents, such as amitriptyline, showed that some of these drugs are no more effective than the placebo in clinical trials. Several research during the recent past suggest that psychological interventions such as gut-directed hypnotherapy alleviate symptoms and ensure better prognosis in the long run. Therefore, clinicians and researchers must join hands to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning functional abdominal pain and novel therapeutic strategies to ensure the well-being of these children. What is Known: • Functional abdominal pain disorders are common among children, with a worldwide prevalence of 13.5% of children suffering from at least one of these disorders • These disorders contribute to a significant reduction in the quality of life of affected children and their families and lead to an array of psychological problems What is New: • The biological basis of functional abdominal pain is becoming more explicit, including complex interactions between altered microbiome, deranged motility, and psychological dysfunction with gut-brain interactions • Novel approaches giving minimal emphasis on pharmacological interventions and exploring psychological interventions are showing promising results.

Treatments for intractable constipation in childhood.

BACKGROUND: Constipation that is prolonged and does not resolve with conventional therapeutic measures is called intractable constipation. The treatment of intractable constipation is challenging, involving pharmacological or non-pharmacological therapies, as well as surgical approaches. Unresolved constipation can negatively impact quality of life, with additional implications for health systems. Consequently, there is an urgent need to identify treatments that are efficacious and safe. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of treatments used for intractable constipation in children. SEARCH METHODS: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and two trials registers up to 23 June 2023. We also searched reference lists of included studies for relevant studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any pharmacological, non-pharmacological, or surgical treatment to placebo or another active comparator, in participants aged between 0 and 18 years with functional constipation who had not responded to conventional medical therapy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were symptom resolution, frequency of defecation, treatment success, and adverse events; secondary outcomes were stool consistency, painful defecation, quality of life, faecal incontinence frequency, abdominal pain, hospital admission for disimpaction, and school absence. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for each primary outcome. MAIN RESULTS: This review included 10 RCTs with 1278 children who had intractable constipation. We assessed one study as at low risk of bias across all domains. There were serious concerns about risk of bias in six studies. One study compared the injection of 160 units botulinum toxin A (n = 44) to unspecified oral stool softeners (n = 44). We are very uncertain whether botulinum toxin A injection improves treatment success (risk ratio (RR) 37.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.31 to 257.94; very low certainty evidence, downgraded due to serious concerns with risk of bias and imprecision). Frequency of defecation was reported only for the botulinum toxin A injection group (mean interval of 2.6 days). The study reported no data for the other primary outcomes. One study compared erythromycin estolate (n = 6) to placebo (n = 8). The only primary outcome reported was adverse events, which were 0 in both groups. The evidence is of very low certainty due to concerns with risk of bias and serious imprecision. One study compared 12 or 24 µg oral lubiprostone (n = 404) twice a day to placebo (n = 202) over 12 weeks. There may be little to no difference in treatment success (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.92; low certainty evidence). We also found that lubiprostone probably results in little to no difference in adverse events (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.21; moderate certainty evidence). The study reported no data for the other primary outcomes. One study compared three-weekly rectal sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate and sorbitol enemas (n = 51) to 0.5 g/kg/day polyethylene glycol laxatives (n = 51) over a 52-week period. We are very uncertain whether rectal sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate and sorbitol enemas improve treatment success (RR 1.33, 95% CI 0.83 to 2.14; very low certainty evidence, downgraded due to serious concerns with risk of bias and imprecision). Results of defecation frequency per week was reported only as modelled means using a linear mixed model. The study reported no data for the other primary outcomes. One study compared biofeedback therapy (n = 12) to no intervention (n = 12). We are very uncertain whether biofeedback therapy improves symptom resolution (RR 2.50, 95% CI 1.08 to 5.79; very low certainty evidence, downgraded due to serious concerns with risk of bias and imprecision). The study reported no data for the other primary outcomes. One study compared 20 minutes of intrarectal electromotive botulinum toxin A using 2800 Hz frequency and botulinum toxin A dose 10 international units/kg (n = 30) to 10 international units/kg botulinum toxin A injection (n = 30). We are very uncertain whether intrarectal electromotive botulinum toxin A improves symptom resolution (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.22; very low certainty evidence) or if it increases the frequency of defecation (mean difference (MD) 0.00, 95% CI -1.87 to 1.87; very low certainty evidence). We are also very uncertain whether intrarectal electromotive botulinum toxin A has an improved safety profile (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.00; very low certainty evidence). The evidence for these results is of very low certainty due to serious concerns with risk of bias and imprecision. The study did not report data on treatment success. One study compared the injection of 60 units botulinum toxin A (n = 21) to myectomy of the internal anal sphincter (n = 21). We are very uncertain whether botulinum toxin A injection improves treatment success (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.34; very low certainty evidence). No adverse events were recorded. The study reported no data for the other primary outcomes. One study compared 0.04 mg/kg oral prucalopride (n = 107) once daily to placebo (n = 108) over eight weeks. Oral prucalopride probably results in little or no difference in defecation frequency (MD 0.50, 95% CI -0.06 to 1.06; moderate certainty evidence); treatment success (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.72; moderate certainty evidence); and adverse events (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.39; moderate certainty evidence). The study did not report data on symptom resolution. One study compared transcutaneous electrical stimulation to sham stimulation, and another study compared dietitian-prescribed Mediterranean diet with written instructions versus written instructions. These studies did not report any of our predefined primary outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: We identified low to moderate certainty evidence that oral lubiprostone may result in little to no difference in treatment success and adverse events compared to placebo. Based on moderate certainty evidence, there is probably little or no difference between oral prucalopride and placebo in defecation frequency, treatment success, or adverse events. For all other comparisons, the certainty of the evidence for our predefined primary outcomes is very low due to serious concerns with study limitations and imprecision. Consequently, no robust conclusions could be drawn.

Myths and misconceptions about childhood constipation.

Many widely held beliefs and assumptions concerning childhood constipation continue to interfere with rational management of childhood constipation. Although many still believe that constipation is not a common disease, about 9.5% of the world's children suffer from chronic constipation. Most of these children live in non-Western countries. There are major misconceptions about the etiology of constipation as a significant proportion of clinicians still believe that constipation is caused by some form an organic pathology, whereas in reality, the majority have functional constipation. Contrary to a commonly held belief that children outgrow constipation without long-term problems, there is evidence that constipation leads to significant bowel and psychological consequences and has a major impact on the quality of life which detrimentally affects future health and education. Finally, ineffective management strategies such as increasing fiber and water in the diet, and short duration of treatment owing to the fear that long-term laxative treatment leads to colonic dysfunction, interfere with effective therapeutic strategies.   Conclusions: It is apparent that myths and misconception often lead to wrong assumptions regarding the distribution of the disease, its etiology, pathophysiology, and management leading to ordering incorrect investigations and ineffective therapeutic strategies while spending large sums of public funds unnecessarily. Poorly treated constipation leads to deleterious psychological consequences predisposing children to develop significant psychological damage and bowel dysfunctions. This review aims to challenge these myths about various elements of constipation by exploring the existing literature and encouraging clinicians to have a fresh look at old concepts that could interfere with the well-being of children with constipation. What is Known: • Childhood constipation is a growing problem in the world leading to significant suffering and high healthcare expenditure • Myths and misconceptions lead to poor management strategies causing psychological and bowel damage What is New: • Organic, systemic, and bowel disorders leading to constipation are uncommon, and in the majority, it arises due to deliberate fecal withholding and most investigations ordered by clinicians are not very helpful in the management • Most non-pharmacological interventions are not effective in the day-to-day management of childhood constipation. The use of laxatives is considered to be the first-line management strategy.

Development of a Core Outcome Set for Children Aged 1-18 Years with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a core outcome set for clinical studies assessing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children. STUDY DESIGN: This core outcome set was developed using a 2-round Delphi technique and adhering to the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Initiative (OMERACT 2.0) recommendations. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) and (parents of) children (age 1-18 years) with a GERD diagnosis (ie, the presence of bothersome symptoms), listed up to 5 harmful and/or beneficial outcomes that they considered important in the treatment of GERD. Outcomes mentioned by more than 10% of participants were put forward and rated and prioritized by HCPs, parents, and children in a second round. Outcomes with the highest rank formed the draft core outcome set. The final core outcome set was created during an online consensus meeting between an expert panel. RESULTS: The first round was completed by 118 of 125 HCPs (94%), 146 of 146 parents (100%), and 69 of 70 children (99%). A total of 80 of 118 HCPs (68%), 130 of 140 parents (93%), and 77 children (100%) completed round 2. "Adequate relief," "evidence of esophagitis," "feeding difficulties," "heartburn (≥4 years)," "hematemesis," "regurgitation," "sleeping difficulties," "vomiting," and "adverse events" were included in the final core outcome set for GERD in children aged 1-18 years. CONCLUSIONS: We identified a total set of 9 core outcomes and suggest these outcomes to be minimally measured in clinical studies assessing GERD in children. Implementation of this core outcome set is likely to increase comparison between studies and may thus provide future recommendations to improve treatment of GERD in children.

Prevalence and risk factors of functional gastrointestinal disorders in Vietnamese infants and young children.

BACKGROUND: Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are common early in life. The prevalence of FGIDs varies among countries but is unknown in Vietnam. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of FGIDs in healthy Vietnamese infants and young children. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, observational study involving healthy infants and young children between 0 - 48 months old in Hanoi, Vietnam. A representative total of 1511 subjects completed the validated questionnaire on paediatric FGIDs. Rome IV criteria were used to define FGIDs. RESULTS: For Vietnamese infants (0-6 months) and young children (7-48 months), the prevalence of having at least one FGID was 10.0% and only 0.6% was having more than one FGID. Infantile regurgitation (9.3%) was the most prevalent FGID among infants 0-6 months of age while all other FGIDs had a low prevalence between 0-2.5%. For young children between 7 - 48 months old, functional constipation was the most common disorder at the rate of 5.6%. Association analysis revealed that the risk of infant regurgitation was significantly lower among infants with exclusively breastfeeding at 2 - 3 months and 3 - 4 months, formula initiation at 0 - 1 months, and higher paternal education level. The prevalence of functional constipation was significantly higher in male subjects, children in families with annual household income between 273,000,000 - 546,999,999 VND (or estimate around 11,800 - 23,800 USD), families with one child only, and formula feeding initiation at 1 - 2 months. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of FGIDs in Vietnamese infants and young children is relatively low compared to the published literature using Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Infantile regurgitation was the most common FGID in Vietnamese infants while functional constipation was most prevalent among Vietnamese young children. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Netherlands Trial Registry Identifier: NL7286/NTR7495 .

Aerophagia Study in Indonesia: Prevalence and Association With Family-related Stress.

BACKGROUND: Aerophagia is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by repeated air swallowing leading to chronic abdominal distension. Symptoms can be long lasting, lead to frustration, and distress. This study describes prevalence, related factors, and symptomatology of aerophagia, together with its relationship with emotional stress. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Adolescents aged 10 to 17 years from selected state schools by convenient sampling from Jakarta, Indonesia, were recruited. Rome III self-administered questionnaire was used to compile data on gastrointestinal symptoms. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, intestinal and extraintestinal symptoms, and stressful life events were collected using a separate questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 1796 questionnaires were included in the analysis [males 732 (40.8%), mean age 13.58 (SD 0.992) years]. There were 81 (4.5%) subjects diagnosed with aerophagia. When the criterion of belching was removed from the diagnosis of aerophagia, the prevalence drops to only 2 (0.1%). subjects. Bivariate analysis showed that sociodemographic factors have no correlation with aerophagia. In subjects with aerophagia, among the intestinal-related and extraintestinal symptoms, only loss of appetite was significantly more common in the aerophagia population (33.3%) when compared with controls (22.8%). Death of a close family member [adjusted odds ratio (OR), 2.78; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.46-5.31; P=0.002], divorce or separation of parents (adjusted OR, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.38-4.66; P=0.003), and divorce followed by separate individual remarriage of parents (adjusted OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.01-3.98; P=0.046) were found to be significantly associated with aerophagia by multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of aerophagia was found in 4.5% of Indonesian school-aged children according to Rome III criteria, but the prevalence was found only 0.1% if the belching is removed from the criteria. Besides the main symptoms, only loss of appetite was significantly more common in aerophagia among intestinal-related and extraintestinal symptoms. Family-related stress showed a significant correlation with aerophagia.

Functional Fecal Incontinence in Children: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Evaluation, and Management.

ABSTRACT: Functional fecal incontinence (FI) is a worldwide problem in children and comprises constipation-associated FI and nonretentive FI. Irrespective of pathophysiology, both disorders impact negatively on the psychological well-being and quality of life of affected children. A thorough clinical history and physical examination using the Rome IV criteria are usually sufficient to diagnose these conditions in most children. Evolving investigations such as high-resolution anorectal and colonic manometry have shed new light on the pathophysiology of functional FI. Although conventional interventions such as toilet training and laxatives successfully treat most children with constipation-associated FI, children with nonretentive FI need more psychologically based therapeutic options. Intrasphincteric injection of botulinum toxin, transanal irrigation and, in select cases, surgical interventions have been used in more resistant children with constipation-associated FI.

Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in infants and young children in China.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in children, particularly from Asia, is largely unknown. There are not many studies done in Asia especially using the Rome IV criteria. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of FGIDs in infants and young children in a representative sample in China. METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional, community-based survey was conducted among healthy infants and young children between the ages of 0-4 years in Jinhua and Shanghai, China. A total of 2604 subjects (1300 subjects from Jinhua and 1304 subjects from Shanghai) completed a validated questionnaire on pediatric gastrointestinal symptoms. FGIDs in infants and young children were diagnosed using the Rome IV criteria. RESULTS: According to the Rome IV criteria, the prevalence of having a FGID in Chinese infants and young children is 27.3%. Infant regurgitation (33.9%) was the most common FGID among the 0-6 months old while functional constipation (7.0%) was the most common among the 1-4 years old. Risk factor analysis revealed that prevalence of infantile colic was higher with better maternal education and low birth weight. Prevalence of infantile regurgitation was significantly greater in males, living in a rural area, being exclusively breast fed at least up to 4 months and starting formula feeds within the first month. The risk of functional constipation was lower for infants who were delivered vaginally. CONCLUSIONS: Infantile regurgitation was the most common FGID in Chinese infants while functional constipation was most prevalent among young Chinese children. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Netherlands Trial Registry Identifier: NL6973/NTR7161 .

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

OBJECTIVE: To ensure consistency and reduce outcome measure reporting heterogeneity in clinical trials on pediatric functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs), a core outcome set (COS) was developed for pediatric FAPD trials. STUDY DESIGN: A mixed-method 2-round Delphi technique was used and key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals (HCPs), patients with FAPD, and their parents were invited to participate. In the first round, key stakeholders identified outcomes of importance through an open-ended questionnaire. Outcomes mentioned by ≥10% of the participants were included in a shortlist. In the second round, this shortlist was rated and prioritized. During a consensus meeting with an expert panel, the final COS was defined. RESULTS: The first round was completed by 152 of 210 (72%) HCPs, 103 (100%) parents, and 50 of 54 (93%) patients. A total of 104 from 167 (62%) HCPs, 102 (100%) parents, and 53 (100%) patients completed round 2. Pain intensity, pain frequency, quality of life, school attendance, anxiety/depression, adequate relief, defecation pattern (disease specific, irritable bowel syndrome), and adverse events were included in the final COS for FAPDs. CONCLUSION: A set of 8 core outcomes has been identified that should minimally be measured in pediatric FAPD trials. Implementation of the use of this COS will increase comparison between studies and, therefore, improve management of children with FAPDs.

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

OBJECTIVES: Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) and functional defecation disorders (FDDs) are common in children and adolescents, but prevalence rates from the Caribbean are lacking. Therefore, our aim was to determine the prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs in adolescents in Curacao and to assess the influence of psychosocial factors on the prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs. METHODS: The prevalence of FAPDs and FDDs in children and adolescents living in Curacao, ages 11 to 18 years, was assessed using the Rome IV Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders (RIV-QPGD). FAPDs and FDDs were diagnosed according to the Rome IV criteria. Sociodemographic characteristics, somatic symptoms, early adverse life events, stressful life events, and physical and emotional abuse were evaluated as associated factors. RESULTS: Out of 946 questionnaires distributed, 783 were included for further analysis. The mean age of adolescents was 14.7 years (±1.6) with 61.7% being girls. A total of 266 adolescents (34%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 30.7-37.5) met Rome IV criteria for at least 1 FAPD or FDD. Twenty-nine adolescents (3.7%) qualified for 2 functional gastrointestinal disorders. Functional constipation (18.6%) and irritable bowel syndrome (12.3%) were the most prevalent disorders. After multivariate logistic regression analyses, dizziness (odds ratio [OR] 1.84, 95% CI 1.28-2.64) was significantly associated with having a FAPD or FDD. CONCLUSIONS: FAPDs and FDDs are common in adolescents in Curacao. Dizziness is associated with the presence of a FAPD or FDD.

Quality of Life in Children with Functional Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the literature on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with functional constipation and to identify disease-related factors associated with HRQoL. STUDY DESIGN: The Pubmed, Embase, and PsycINFO database were searched. Studies were included if they prospectively assessed HRQoL in children with functional constipation according to the Rome criteria. Articles were excluded if patients had organic causes of constipation and if HRQoL was only assessed after successful therapeutic interventions. A meta-analysis was performed calculating sample size-weighted pooled mean and SD of HRQoL scores. The quality of the studies was also assessed. RESULTS: A total of 20 of 2658 studies were included, providing HRQoL data for 2344 children. Quality of evidence was considered to be poor in 9 of the 20 studies (45%); 13 of the 20 studies reported sufficient data to be included in the meta-analysis. Pooled total HRQoL scores of children with functional constipation were found to be lower compared with healthy reference samples (65.6 vs 86.1; P < .01). Similar HRQoL scores were found according to self-report and parent proxy report. Hospital-based studies reported lower HRQoL scores as compared with community-based studies. Two studies reported on HRQoL scores of children with and without fecal incontinence, but no significant difference was found. CONCLUSIONS: HRQoL is compromised in children with functional constipation.

Functional constipation in infancy and early childhood: epidemiology, risk factors, and healthcare consultation.

BACKGROUND: Functional constipation (FC) is a pediatric problem that is seen frequently. However, its prevalence in Asia remains undetermined. In this study we attempted to determine the prevalence, risk factors and therapeutic modalities of FC in infants and toddlers in Sri Lanka. METHODS: Children aged 6.5 months to 4 years were selected from 14 well-baby and vaccination clinics in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. A questionnaire with questions regarding the socio-demographic characteristics, child's bowel habits, psycho-social risk factors and treatment modalities were filled by the mothers. FC was diagnosed according to ROME III criteria. RESULTS: A total of 1113 children were analyzed [(female n = 560 (50.3%) with a mean age of 20.7 months, standard deviation [SD] 11.2 months. FC was found in 89 (8.0%). FC was significantly and independently associated with underweight (14.3% vs 7.2%, p = 0.008. [OR and 95% CI: 2,3 (CI; 1.3-4.2)] and residence in an urban area (9.6% vs 5.6%, p = 0.013). [OR and 95% CI: 0.592 (CI; 0.396-0.95)]. Children subjected to violence showed a significantly higher prevalence of FC (20.0 vs 7.8%, p = 0.046). Children being overweight and children living with mothers subjected to violence showed a higher, though not statistically significant, tendency to develop FC. Children with FC visited healthcare clinics more frequently when compared to controls (19.6% vs 6.0%, p < 0.0001). However, only 24% of infants and toddlers with FC were treated specifically for the condition by a doctor. CONCLUSIONS: FC occurred in 8% of this cohort of Sri Lankan infants and toddlers. It is significantly associated with underweight and living in an urban area. Only a quarter of them received medical attention for their constipation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: SLCP/ERC/2014/12 , December 2014.

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

BACKGROUND: Functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPD) have been widely reported as a major group of gastrointestinal disorders across the world. This study describes the prevalence, related factors, symptomatology and its relationship to emotional stress in Indonesian adolescents. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. Adolescents aged 10 to 17 years from nine randomly selected state schools from five districts of Jakarta, Indonesia, were invited to participate. A translated and validated Rome-III self-administered-questionnaire was used to collect data on gastrointestinal symptoms. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, intestinal as well as extra-intestinal symptoms, and exposure to stressful life events were also collected using a separate validated questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 1813 questionnaires were included in the analysis [males 739 (40.8%) mean age of 13.54 years + 0.89]. Of them, 209 children (11.5%) fulfilled Rome III criteria of FAPD. Functional abdominal pain (FAP) was reported as the most prevalent subtype (5.8%), followed by functional dyspepsia (3.3%), irritable bowel syndrome (2%) and abdominal migraine (0.4%). The prevalence was higher in girls (p < 0.05) and those exposed to family-related stressful life events (p < 0.05). They include divorce or separation of parents (adjusted OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.75-3.7, p = < 0.001), death of a close family member (adjusted OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.39-3.59, P = 0.001), and father's alcoholism (adjusted OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.22-3.1, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: FAPD are common paediatric entities among Indonesian adolescents with a prevalence of 11.5%. FAPD were noted to be higher in girls and adolescents exposed to family-related stressful life events.

Prevalence of Functional Defecation Disorders in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the literature regarding the epidemiology of functional constipation and functional nonretentive fecal incontinence (FNRFI) in children. Secondary objectives were to assess the geographical, age, and sex distribution of functional constipation and FNRFI and to evaluate associated factors. STUDY DESIGN: The Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase databases were searched from 2006 until September 2017. The following inclusion criteria were applied: (1) prospective studies of population-based samples; (2) reporting on the prevalence of functional constipation or FNRFI according to the Rome III/IV criteria; (3) in children aged 0-18 years; and (4) published in full manuscript form. A quality assessment of included studies was conducted. Random effect meta-analyses with meta-regression analyses of study characteristics were performed. RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies were included, of which 35 reported on the prevalence of functional constipation and 15 of FNRFI. The reported prevalence of functional constipation ranged from 0.5% to 32.2%, with a pooled prevalence of 9.5% (95% CI 7.5-12.1). The prevalence of FRNFI ranged from 0.0% to 1.8%, with a pooled prevalence of 0.4% (95% CI 0.2-0.7). The prevalence of functional constipation was 8.6% in boys compared with 8.9% in girls (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.9-1.4). Geographical location, dietary habits, and exposure to stressful life events were reported to be associated with the prevalence of functional constipation. Data on FNRFI were scarce and no associated factors were identified. CONCLUSION: Functional constipation is common in childhood and is associated with geographical location, lifestyle factors, and stressful life events. FNRFI is rare, and no associated factors were identified.

Functional gastrointestinal diseases and psychological maladjustment, personality traits and quality of life.

BACKGROUND: Chronic abdominal pain is a common worldwide problem and known to be associated with psychological problems. This study evaluated the association between abdominal pain-predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs), psychological maladjustment and personality traits in adolescents. METHODS: Adolescents aged 13-18 years were recruited from 5 randomly selected schools in Ampara district of Sri Lanka. AP-FGIDs were diagnosed using Rome III criteria. Translated and validated Rome III questionnaire (Child report form), personality questionnaire (PAQ) and PedsQL (Pediatric Quality of Life) inventory were used in data collection. Written consent was obtained from a parent and assent was obtained from every child recruited. The questionnaire was distributed in an examination setting to ensure confidentiality and privacy. Research assistants were present during data collection to assist on any necessary clarifications. RESULTS: A total of 1697 subjects were recruited [males 779 (45.9%), mean age 15.1 years, SD 1.6 years]. AP-FGIDs were present in 202 (11.9%). Those with AP-FGIDs had significantly higher mean scores for all personality traits (hostility and aggression, negative self-esteem, emotional unresponsiveness, emotional instability and negative world view), except dependency. Affected children had lower scores for all 4 domains of HRQoL (physical, emotional, social and school functioning), compared to controls (p < 0.05). When the cut off value for Sri Lankan children (89) was used, 66.3% with AP-FGIDs and 48.2% controls had PAQ scores within that of psychological maladjustment (p < 0.001). When the international normative value of 105 was used, these percentages were 27.2% and 14.2% respectively (p < 0.0001). The scores obtained for PAQ negatively correlated with scores obtained for HRQoL (r = - 0.52, p < 0.0001). One hundred and seventeen adolescents with AP-FGIDs (57.9%) had sought healthcare for their symptoms. Healthcare consulters had higher PAQ and lower HRQoL scores (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents with AP-FGIDs have more psychological maladjustment and abnormal personality traits than healthy controls. Affected adolescents with higher psychological maladjustments have lower HRQoL. Greater psychological maladjustment and lower HRQoL are associated with healthcare seeking behaviour in adolescents with AP-FGIDs.

Epidemiology of Paediatric constipation in Indonesia and its association with exposure to stressful life events.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to study the epidemiology and risk factors, including exposure to emotional stress, for constipation in Indonesian children and adolescents of 10-17 year age group. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey using a validated, self-administered questionnaire was conducted in randomly selected children and adolescents in nine state junior high schools from five districts of Jakarta. All of them were from urban areas. Constipation was defined as a diagnosis by using the Rome III criteria. RESULTS: Of 1796 children included in the analysis, 328 (18.3%; 95% CI 016-0.2) had constipation. Females and those residing in North Jakarta showed risks associated with constipation in school-age children and adolescents. Symptoms independently associated with constipation were abdominal pain (64% vs 43.3% of control) and straining (22.9% vs 6.3%). The prevalence of constipation was significantly higher in those with stressful life events such as father's alcoholism (adjusted OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.27-2.89, P = 0.002), severe illness of a close family member (adjusted OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.12-2.80, P = 0.014), hospitalization of the child for another illness (adjusted OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.22-2.31, P < 0.001), being bullied at school (adjusted OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.01-2.76, P = 0.047) and loss of a parent's job (adjusted OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.03-1.88, P = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS: Constipation in children and adolescent is a significant health problem, affecting almost 20% of Indonesian school-age children and adolescents. Common school and home related stressful life events appear to have predisposed these children to develop constipation.

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

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of domperidone on children with abdominal pain predominant functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs). METHODS: One hundred children (aged 5-12 years) fulfilling Rome III criteria for AP-FGIDs were randomized into 8 weeks of domperidone or placebo treatment. Primary outcomes defined were cure and patient-reported general improvement. Secondary outcomes were reduction in the severity of abdominal pain and increase in gastric motility. Patients were followed up for 6 months. RESULTS: Eighty-nine (42 in placebo group, 47 in domperidone group) completed the trial at 8 weeks. Seventy-nine completed the 6-month follow-up. When primary outcomes were assessed at 8 weeks, 37 (74%) in the domperidone group and 25 (50%) in the placebo group showed patient-reported general improvement (P = 0.013), whereas no significant difference was observed in cure (22 [44%] vs 14 [28%] P = 0.09). At 6-month follow-up 30 (60%) in the domperidone group and 19 (38%) in the placebo group reported cure (P = 0.028), whereas 44 (88%) in the domperidone group and 33 (66%) in the placebo group showed patient-reported general improvement (P = 0.009). When assessing secondary outcomes at 8 weeks, the domperidone group reported significant reduction in the severity of abdominal pain (54.1% vs 24.7%, P = 0.008) and an increase in the antral motility index (27.5% vs 7.2%, P = 0.029). None of the patients reported intervention-related adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Domperidone may be a safe and effective therapeutic modality to achieve a lasting remission of symptoms in children with AP-FGIDs.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its associations among adolescents in an urban, Sri Lankan community.

BACKGROUND: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common problem across the world. We aimed to determine the prevalence of NAFLD and its associations in Sri Lankan adolescents living in an urban Sri Lankan community. METHOD: The study population consisted of the birth cohort of the year 2000, residing in the Ragama Medical Officer of Health area. Socio-demographic and anthropometric data [anthropometric measurements, blood pressure and total body fat distribution] of these adolescents were collected by trained data collectors. Fasting blood sugar, serum insulin, fasting serum lipids and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were measured and an abdominal ultrasound was performed. NAFLD was diagnosed on established ultrasound criteria for fatty liver and absent alcohol consumption. RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 499 adolescents [263 (51.8%) girls]. Forty two (8.4%) had NAFLD. NAFLD was significantly associated with being breast fed for less than 4 months (33.3% vs. 17.1 in controls, p = 0.02), higher waist circumference (prevalence risk ratio 83.3/20.3, 4.1, p < 0.0001), higher body mass index (prevalence risk ratio 40.5/4.8, 8.4, p < 0/0001),higher HOMA-IR (3.7 vs. 1.9, p < 0.0001) and high triglycerides (prevalence risk ratio 14.3/5.8, 2.5, p = 0.033). Adolescents with NAFLD also had a higher amount of total body fat (p < 0.001) and subcutaneous fat (p < 0.001) than those without NAFLD. The number of children with metabolic derangements was higher among adolescents with NAFLD than those without (85.8 vs 26.3 in controls, p < 0.0001), but a family history of hypertension, diabetes, myocardial infarction or dyslipidaemia were not. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of NAFLD was high in Sri Lankan adolescents, and was associated with metabolic derangements, especially obesity, insulin resistance and early cessation of breast feeding.

Constipation and Constipation-predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Comparative Study Using Rome III Criteria.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to compare functional constipation (FC) and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) in adolescents. METHODS: A school-based survey was conducted involving adolescents ages 13 to 18 years. A set of validated questionnaires including Rome III questionnaire for functional gastrointestinal disorders in children/adolescents, somatization inventory, quality of life inventory, and childhood traumatic events inventory were used for data collection. FC and IBS-C were defined using Rome III criteria. RESULTS: A total of 1792 adolescents (975 boys [45.4%]) were included in the analysis. Prevalence of FC and IBS-C were 7.7% and 1.6%, respectively. Bowel habits such as stool frequency <3 per week (10% vs 44.9%, P < 0.0001), hard stools (20% vs 40.5%, P < 0.05), painful defecation (33.3% vs 56.5%, P < 0.05), large diameter stools (23.3% vs 50.7%, P < 0.01), stool withholding behavior (20% vs 44.2%, P < 0.05), were more commonly associated with FC than did IBS-C. Occurrence of fecal incontinence (0% vs 8%, P = 0.21), urgency (56.7% vs 66.7%, P = 0.65), and straining (56.7% vs 36.9%, P = 0.47) was not significantly different between IBS-C and FC. Exposure to physical abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse was equally prevalent among adolescents with FC and IBS-C. There was no difference between somatization scores, and health-related quality of life between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although bowel habits related to stool withholding are more prevalent in FC, than in IBS-C, they are more likely to be a spectrum of a disorder rather than 2 separate entities.