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Cyclic vomiting syndrome responding to amitryptiline
J B Ghosh1, Mahua Roy, Tanushree Peters
1Department of Pediatric Medicine, IPGME&R Kolkata and North Bengal Medical College & Hospital, Darjeeling, India.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|December 17, 2009
Summary
Cyclic vomiting syndrome, a condition causing recurrent vomiting, was diagnosed in a 7-year-old girl. Treatment with amitriptyline provided significant symptom relief.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Neurology
Background:
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a debilitating functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent, stereotypic episodes of nausea and vomiting.
- The etiology of CVS remains poorly understood, but autonomic dysfunction and central nervous system pathways are implicated.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old female presented with a history of recurrent vomiting and altered sensorium.
- Initial laboratory investigations were unremarkable, ruling out common metabolic and infectious causes.
Findings:
- A diagnosis of cyclic vomiting syndrome was established based on the clinical presentation.
- The patient responded favorably to treatment with amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering CVS in the differential diagnosis of recurrent unexplained vomiting in children.
- Amitriptyline appears to be an effective therapeutic option for managing cyclic vomiting syndrome in pediatric patients.
- Further research into the pathophysiology of CVS may lead to novel treatment strategies.
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