Gastrointestinal manifestations of pediatric autonomic disorders

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are currently classified under the Rome criteria based on symptoms and absence of organic disease. Preliminary studies have shown that FGIDs are probably not restricted to the GI tract, but may represent a systemic disorder with comorbidities affecting other parts of the body, including migraine, fatigue, aches and pains, etc. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) provides the extrinsic control of GI motility, secretions, and even immune response. The role of the ANS in the development of FGIDs and comorbidities is still unclear. Limited data demonstrate orthostatic intolerance such as reflex syncope and postural tachycardia syndrome in a large subset of subjects with FGIDs. Some studies have found improvement in the GI symptoms with treatment of the orthostatic intolerance it produces. Prospective studies are needed to determine the chronology of the development of the comorbidities, the triggers that induce these syndromes, and effective treatments. This chapter aims to review current understanding of the role of the ANS in FGIDs.