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Potential oxidative stress in children with chronic constipation
Jun-Fu Zhou1, Jian-Guo Lou, Sheng-Li Zhou
1Second Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China. jfzhou@zju.edu.cn
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|January 8, 2005
Summary
Children with chronic constipation show signs of oxidative stress. Their levels of antioxidants like vitamin C and E decreased, while harmful lipoperoxides increased.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Biochemistry
- Oxidative Stress Research
Background:
- Chronic constipation is a common pediatric issue.
- Oxidative stress is implicated in various chronic diseases.
- The link between chronic constipation and oxidative stress in children requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential oxidative stress in children suffering from chronic constipation.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms of oxidative stress in this condition.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled study involving 70 children with chronic constipation and 70 healthy controls.
- Measurement of plasma levels of vitamin C and E.
- Determination of erythrocyte superoxide dismutase and catalase activity, and lipoperoxide levels via spectrophotometry.
Main Results:
- Children with chronic constipation exhibited significantly lower levels of vitamin C, vitamin E, superoxide dismutase, and catalase compared to healthy controls.
- Elevated lipoperoxide levels were observed in children with chronic constipation.
- A prolonged disease course correlated with decreased antioxidant levels and increased lipoperoxide levels.
Conclusions:
- Chronic constipation in children is associated with significant oxidative stress.
- The findings suggest a potential role for oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of chronic constipation in pediatric populations.