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Childhood and adolescent constipation: review and advances in management

Nader N Youssef1

  • 1Nader N. Youssef, Center for Pediatric Irritable Bowel and Motility Disorders, Goryeb Children’s Hospital at Atlantic Health, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, 100 Madison Avenue, Internal Box 82, Morristown, NJ 07962, USA. Nader.Youssef@atlantichealth.org

Current Treatment Options in Gastroenterology
|September 28, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Functional constipation affects 12-30% of the population across all ages and demographics. Effective management involves early recognition, physician support, identifying factors, and using laxatives, with novel options for refractory cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Digestive Health

Background:

  • Constipation is a prevalent symptom in children, affecting diverse populations.
  • Functional constipation impacts 12-30% of the general population.
  • Understanding pathogenic mechanisms is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a practical overview of constipation's pathogenic mechanisms.
  • To emphasize evaluation and management options for practitioners.
  • To discuss challenges and novel therapeutic considerations.

Main Methods:

  • Review of pathogenic mechanisms.
  • Emphasis on clinical evaluation through history taking.
  • Discussion of diagnostic tests (manometry, colonic scintigraphy) for severe cases.

Main Results:

  • Constipation evaluation relies heavily on careful history taking.
  • Diagnostic tests are reserved for severely affected individuals.
  • Therapy requires early recognition, support, factor identification, and medication.

Conclusions:

  • Constipation management can be challenging, particularly with pain.
  • Standard treatment includes osmotic and/or stimulant laxatives.
  • Refractory cases may benefit from probiotics, botulinum toxin, mind-body interventions, electrical stimulation, or surgery.

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