Feeding dysfunction in children with eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Allergy and Immunology
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Feeding dysfunction (FD) is a recognized challenge in pediatric care.
• Eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs) are increasingly diagnosed in children.
• The specific characteristics of FD in EGID patients are not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize feeding dysfunction (FD) in pediatric patients with eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs).
• To identify common symptoms and associated conditions in children with EGID and FD.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of medical records for 200 children with EGIDs over 12 months.
• Detailed examination of clinical data for 33 children diagnosed with FD.
• Inclusion of history, physical exam, feeding evaluations, nutritional data, allergy testing, and biopsy results.

Main Results:

• 16.5% of children with EGIDs exhibited significant FD, with a median age of 34 months.
• Common symptoms included learned feeding behaviors (93.9%), gagging/vomiting (84.8%), and food sensitivity (88%).
• Failure to thrive (21%) and need for feeding therapy (69.7%) were noted, with persistent eosinophilia in 42%.

Conclusions:

• FD is prevalent in children with EGIDs, manifesting as learned behaviors and mechanical eating issues.
• FD can persist despite successful treatment of eosinophilic inflammation.
• Early identification and comprehensive management of FD in EGID patients are crucial for optimal development and nutrition.