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Gastrointestinal symptoms in a sample of children with pervasive developmental disorders

Roumen N Nikolov1, Karen E Bearss, Jelle Lettinga

  • 1Yale Child Study Center, Yale University, P.O. Box 207900, New Haven, CT, USA. roumen.nikolov@yale.edu

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|September 16, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Gastrointestinal problems like constipation and diarrhea are common in children with pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs). These children may experience increased irritability and anxiety, and are less likely to respond to treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) are associated with various medical comorbidities.
  • Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are frequently reported in children with PDDs, but require further investigation in large cohorts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the prevalence and characteristics of GI problems in a large sample of children diagnosed with PDDs.
  • To explore the relationship between GI symptoms and clinical outcomes in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive assessment of 172 children with PDDs was conducted before treatment initiation.
  • Children were classified based on the presence and type of GI symptoms, including constipation and diarrhea.

Main Results:

  • Approximately 22.7% of children with PDDs presented with GI problems.
  • Children with GI issues did not differ in demographics, adaptive functioning, or autism severity.
  • However, those with GI problems exhibited greater irritability, anxiety, and social withdrawal, and showed reduced treatment response.

Conclusions:

  • GI problems are a significant concern in children with PDDs, affecting symptom presentation and treatment outcomes.
  • The findings highlight the need for routine GI screening and integrated care approaches for children with PDDs.
  • Further research should explore the underlying mechanisms connecting GI health and neurodevelopmental conditions.

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