Rumination Syndrome in Adolescents: Clinical and Psychiatric Correlates From a Case Series

IntroductionRumination Syndrome (RS) lies at the intersection of gastrointestinal and psychiatric disorders but remains poorly recognized within Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Although benign in nature, RS can cause marked psychological distress and functional impairment.ObjectiveTo describe the clinical presentation and mental health comorbidities of adolescents with suspected RS in an outpatient setting.MethodsEight adolescents (13-16 years) referred to a specialized Pediatric Clinic for Nutritional Disorders between January 2022 and July 2024 were reviewed. Data were extracted from clinical records focusing on psychiatric comorbidities and diagnostic differentiation.ResultsAll patients were female (mean age 15.4 years). Symptom duration before referral ranged from 1 month to 4 years, with weight loss between 2-25 kg (BMI 14.5-20.5 kg/m²). RS was confirmed in six patients; five presented comorbid eating disorders. Interventions combining medical and psychological care reduced symptoms in most cases. One patient was diagnosed with an organic cause (ovarian anaplastic lymphoma).ConclusionsRS in adolescence is often misdiagnosed or mistaken for an eating disorder. Awareness of its behavioral and psychological dimensions is crucial in mental health practice. This series supports the need for joint pediatric-psychiatric assessment and early behavioral intervention in RS.