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Functional constipation in infants: a follow-up study
M M van den Berg1, C H van Rossum, F de Lorijn
1Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Insights
Most infants with severe functional constipation recover within six months. Early intervention for constipation in early childhood improves outcomes and reduces the likelihood of relapse.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Gastroenterology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Severe functional constipation is a common condition in early childhood.
- Understanding the clinical course and treatment outcomes is crucial for pediatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical course of severe functional constipation in infants.
- To identify factors associated with successful treatment and relapse.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 47 infants with severe constipation was evaluated.
- Follow-up data were collected using standardized questionnaires.
- Treatment success was defined by symptom resolution over a 4-week period.
Main Results:
- 69% of children recovered within six months of evaluation.
- 15% experienced a relapse within three years.
- Shorter symptom duration before referral correlated with better outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Severe functional constipation in infants often resolves within six months.
- Early therapeutic intervention appears beneficial for constipation resolution.
- Prompt evaluation and treatment can improve long-term prognosis.
Abstract:
Our objective of this study was to describe the clinical course of severe functional constipation in early childhood. Eligible patients were 47 children (60% boys; median age, 3.5 months) who had constipation in their first year of life. Follow-up data were obtained through a standardized questionnaire. Success was defined as a period of at least 4 weeks with > or =3 painless bowel movements per week. Six months after initial evaluation, 69% of the children were recovered. After initial success, a relapse occurred in 15% of the children within 3 years. A duration of symptoms <3 months before referral correlated significantly with better outcome. We conclude that most infants with severe constipation evaluated at a tertiary center are recovered after 6 months. Early therapeutic intervention may beneficially contribute to the resolution of constipation.
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