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Anxiety disorders in children with epispadias-exstrophy
William G Reiner1, John P Gearhart
1Department of Urology, Division of Pediatric Urology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104, USA. william-reiner@ouhsc.edu
Urology
|June 30, 2006
Summary
Children with the epispadias-exstrophy complex frequently experience anxiety disorders. Most patients had multiple anxiety disorders, with sexual anxiety increasing with age.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Child Psychiatry
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- The epispadias-exstrophy complex is a rare congenital condition.
- Comorbid psychiatric conditions are often overlooked in children with complex medical histories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of anxiety disorders in children diagnosed with the epispadias-exstrophy complex.
- To determine if anxiety disorders are common comorbidities in this pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 20 pediatric patients with the epispadias-exstrophy complex (aged 5-22 years) underwent psychiatric evaluation.
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, version IV (DSM-IV) criteria were used to diagnose disorders.
- Impairment in home, academic, and social functioning was assessed.
Main Results:
- All 20 subjects (100%) met criteria for at least one anxiety disorder.
- 19 subjects (95%) met criteria for more than one anxiety disorder.
- While some symptoms decreased post-surgery, sexual anxiety notably increased with age in adolescent patients.
Conclusions:
- The epispadias-exstrophy complex is significantly associated with an increased vulnerability to anxiety disorders in children.
- Early identification and management of anxiety are crucial for this patient group.
- Long-term psychological support may be necessary, particularly concerning sexual anxiety.
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