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[Chronic constipation in childhood. A report of 78 patients]

Samir Boukthir1, Afef Slimi, Sonia Mazigh

  • 1Service de Médecine Infantile C, Hôpital d'Enfants de Tunis, Tunisie.

La Tunisie Medicale
|August 2, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Functional constipation is the most common cause of chronic constipation in children. Hirschsprung's disease is the leading organic cause, highlighting the importance of rectal manometry for diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Research
  • Diagnostic Methods

Context:

  • Chronic constipation is a common pediatric issue with diverse etiologies.
  • Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective management.
  • This study investigates the causes and clinical presentations of chronic constipation in children.

Purpose:

  • To determine the etiological factors and clinical patterns of chronic constipation in pediatric patients.
  • To evaluate the diagnostic utility of rectal manometry and biopsy in identifying organic causes.
  • To assess treatment outcomes for different types of constipation.

Summary:

  • A retrospective study of 78 children with chronic constipation found functional constipation in 62.8% and Hirschsprung's disease in 24.3%.
  • Rectal manometry confirmed absent rectoanal reflex in 17 suspected Hirschsprung's cases, and biopsy revealed absent ganglion cells in 11.
  • Treatments included laxatives, enemas, dietary changes, biofeedback for functional constipation, and surgical procedures for Hirschsprung's disease, with varying success rates.

Impact:

  • Identifies functional constipation as the primary cause and Hirschsprung's disease as the main organic cause of chronic constipation in children.
  • Emphasizes the critical role of rectal manometry in diagnosing Hirschsprung's disease.
  • Provides insights into treatment strategies and outcomes for pediatric chronic constipation.
Abstract

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