[Proctologic examination in pediatrics].

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Proctology

Context:

• Rectal examinations are crucial for diagnosing pediatric gastrointestinal issues.
• Gastroenterocolitis is a common reason for these examinations in children.

Purpose:

• To analyze findings from rectal examinations, including inspection, digital rectal exam, and endoscopy, in a pediatric cohort.
• To identify the prevalence and types of rectal pathologies in children presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Summary:

• 873 pediatric rectal examinations were conducted. Most children presented with gastroenterocolitis. External sphincter hypotonicity was observed in 146 cases, associated with prolonged diarrhea and malnutrition.
• Endoscopic findings included mucosal ulcerations, congestion, friability, edema, and bleeding. Colitis was diagnosed in 540 patients, with amebic colitis identified in 54 cases.
• Neoplastic lesions were rare, primarily leukemic infiltration or metastases. No procedure-related complications occurred.

Impact:

• Highlights the spectrum of rectal pathologies in children, emphasizing colitis and amebic colitis.
• Identifies prolonged diarrhea and malnutrition as risk factors for external sphincter hypotonicity in pediatric patients.
• Provides data on the diagnostic utility of combined endoscopic and fecal mucus examination for amebic colitis in children.