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Prevalence, clinical characteristics, and management of functional constipation at pediatric gastroenterology clinics

Soo Hee Chang1, Kie Young Park, Sung Kil Kang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Bundang Jesaeng General Hospital, Seongnam, Korea.

Journal of Korean Medical Science
|September 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Functional constipation affects 6.4% of children, with factors like infancy history and picky eating being common. Management varies among pediatric gastroenterologists, highlighting the need for improved clinical guidelines.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Clinical Research
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Functional constipation is a common pediatric issue.
  • Understanding its prevalence and characteristics is crucial for effective management.
  • Existing research shows variability in diagnostic and treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of functional constipation in children.
  • To identify clinical characteristics associated with functional constipation.
  • To explore the management strategies employed by pediatric gastroenterologists.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective survey was conducted in May 2008.
  • The Rome III criteria were used to diagnose functional constipation.
  • Parents of children with and without a constipation history participated.

Main Results:

  • The prevalence of functional constipation was found to be 6.4%.
  • Children with constipation often had a history of infancy constipation, were picky eaters, lacked exercise, and exhibited retentive posturing.
  • Key Rome III criteria met included hard stools, painful stools, and rectal fecal impaction.
  • Pediatric gastroenterologists utilized diverse management approaches, including rectal examinations, disimpaction, and medication.

Conclusions:

  • Functional constipation has a significant prevalence in pediatric populations.
  • Specific clinical factors are associated with functional constipation in children.
  • Varied management strategies necessitate the development of standardized clinical guidelines for improved patient outcomes and future research.

Keywords:
ChildConstipationPrevalenceRome III Criteria

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