Functional gastrointestinal disorders in newborns: nutritional perspectives

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Gastroenterology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Diagnosing functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in infants is challenging due to symptom interpretation variability.
• The Rome IV classification system (2016) aims to standardize FGID diagnosis in children.
• The multifactorial pathophysiology of FGIDs limits effective therapeutic strategies, leading to suboptimal treatments and increased healthcare expenses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the most recent evidence-based treatments for FGIDs in newborns.
• To provide clinicians with updated information on managing infant FGIDs.
• To address caregiver distress associated with FGIDs in infants.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent evidence-based treatments for FGIDs in newborns.
• Focus on the Rome IV classification system and its implications.
• Analysis of therapeutic interventions, including educational, behavioral, and pharmacological approaches.

Main Results:

• Educational and behavioral interventions are primary actions, reassuring caregivers about the typically self-limiting nature of FGIDs.
• Emerging evidence supports the use of probiotics for specific infant FGIDs.
• Current treatments aim to reduce caregiver distress and healthcare costs.

Conclusions:

• The Rome IV classification provides a framework for diagnosing infant FGIDs.
• A combination of reassurance, education, and targeted interventions like probiotics is recommended.
• Further research is needed to fully understand FGID pathophysiology and optimize treatments for newborns.