Related Experiment Videos

Clinical findings of functional and secondary constipation in children

Ozlem Bekem Soylu1

  • 1Dr. Behcet Uz Children's Disease and Pediatric Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Unit, Alsancak, Izmir, Turkey.

Iranian Journal of Pediatrics
|June 25, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Functional constipation is more likely in children with a family history of constipation who do not exhibit failure to thrive and whose symptoms begin later in life. This study evaluated 335 children with constipation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Research

Background:

  • Constipation is a common pediatric issue.
  • Differentiating functional from secondary constipation is crucial for appropriate management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate clinical features and follow-up data in children diagnosed with functional or secondary constipation.
  • To identify distinguishing factors between these two groups.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of hospital records for 335 constipated children.
  • Classification into functional (group 1) and secondary (group 2) constipation.
  • Comparison of clinical and anthropometric data between groups.

Main Results:

  • 91% of the 335 children had functional constipation.
  • A family history of constipation was significantly more prevalent in the functional constipation group.
  • Malnutrition rates were higher in secondary constipation (56%) compared to functional constipation (18%).

Conclusions:

  • A family history of constipation, absence of failure to thrive, and later age of onset suggest functional constipation.
  • These clinical indicators can aid in distinguishing between functional and secondary constipation in pediatric patients.
Abstract

Keywords:
ChildrenConstipationDiagnosisFunctional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation01:30

Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation

Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction01:17

Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction

Chronic bowel diseases are a group of long-term conditions affecting the digestive tract, characterized by inflammation and damage to the gut lining. These conditions primarily include irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders01:20

Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Gastrointestinal or GI motility disorders are characterized by irregular gastrointestinal tract movements, disrupting food transit from the mouth to the anus. They are caused by damage or dysfunction in gut muscles or nerves. These disorders can cause symptoms such as severe constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and swallowing difficulties. Disorders can affect any segment of the GI tract and range widely in severity, from common conditions like GERD to life-threatening conditions like...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption01:23

Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption

Understanding the physiological differences in the pediatric population is crucial for effective pharmacotherapy. Neonates, infants, and children exhibit significant variations in gastric pH, gastric emptying time, intestinal transit time, and biliary function. These variations profoundly affect oral drug absorption, necessitating a nuanced approach to pediatric dosing.Neonates present with a unique physiological profile, having a gastric pH greater than 4 and faster and more irregular gastric...