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Gastroesophageal reflux in children with functional constipation

Maşallah Baran1, Funda Özgenç, Çiğdem Arikan

  • 1Ege University Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, İzmir, Turkey. baran19712002@yahoo.com

The Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology : the Official Journal of Turkish Society of Gastroenterology
|June 25, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in children with functional constipation, with similar reflux rates observed in both groups. GERD should be considered in managing pediatric functional constipation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Digestive System Disorders
  • Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Background:

  • Functional constipation and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are prevalent childhood functional gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Adult studies show overlap between functional digestive tract disorders.
  • This study investigates GERD frequency in children with functional constipation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the frequency of GERD in children diagnosed with functional constipation.
  • To compare clinical symptoms and 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring results between children with functional constipation and those with suspected GERD.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective evaluation of 38 children (4-16 years) with functional constipation (Rome III criteria).
  • A control group of 40 children with suspected GERD symptoms was included.
  • All participants underwent symptom assessment and 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring.

Main Results:

  • Belching and hiccups were more frequent in children with functional constipation.
  • Chronic cough was more common in the suspected GERD group.
  • Pathologic acid reflux was found in 39.5% of functional constipation patients and 42.5% of suspected GERD patients (no significant difference).
  • Pyrosis was more common in functional constipation patients with acid reflux.

Conclusions:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a relevant consideration in the management of pediatric functional constipation.
  • Further research using 24-hour pH multichannel impedance is recommended.
Abstract

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