Growth and dietary effects on gastrointestinal symptoms in children with Hirschsprung's disease

Growth and diet are major concerns for patients with Hirschsprung's disease yet are rarely described. This study aimed to investigate self-reported growth and the dietary impact on gastrointestinal symptoms in children with Hirschsprung's disease.

This observational cross-sectional study used a validated self-report questionnaire. All children aged 1-18 years old (n = 85) with Hirschsprung's disease treated at a national center were invited to participate.

In total, 71 children (84%) participated (median age 6 years [range 1-17]). Stunting was reported in 6 of 71 children (9%), with no significant difference between those with rectosigmoid and long-segment aganglionosis (4/58 [7%] vs. 2/13 [15%], p = 0.328). The majority (55/71; 77%) reported diet-induced gastrointestinal symptoms, again with no significant difference between the groups (43/58 [74%] vs. 12/13 [92%] p = 0.227). Of the 90 food items assessed, the most frequently reported to trigger symptoms were high in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), free sugar and fat.

Diet-related gastrointestinal complaints are reported frequently in children with Hirschsprung's disease, regardless of aganglionic extent. The findings highlight the need to assess growth and dietary factors in follow-up care and support further interventional studies on dietary strategies.