Motility problems in the intellectually challenged child, adolescent, and young adult

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility problems represent an important cause of morbidity and sometimes mortality in patients affected by developmental disorders. This article describes motility disorders in Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, familial dysautonomia, and Williams syndrome. These problems do not often receive appropriate attention, either because priority is given to other medical aspects of the disorder, or because of the inability of affected children to communicate their symptoms. A better approach to the diagnosis and treatment of GI disorders is required to improve quality of life and minimize morbidity and mortality among patients with developmental disorders.