Treatment and prognosis of rectal prolapse in cystic fibrosis

Gastroenterology
|April 1, 1982
PubMed

Insights

Rectal prolapse is a common early sign in cystic fibrosis patients, often resolving spontaneously or with enzyme therapy. Early diagnosis is key, and a sweat test is recommended for any child with rectal prolapse.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Genetics
  • Surgical Pediatrics

Background:

  • Rectal prolapse is a notable symptom in pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) cases.
  • Physicians often overlook rectal prolapse as an early indicator of CF.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the incidence and significance of rectal prolapse in cystic fibrosis patients.
  • To evaluate the relationship between rectal prolapse and CF diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 18.5% (112 of 605) cystic fibrosis patients with rectal prolapse.
  • Observation of prolapse onset relative to CF diagnosis and response to therapy.

Main Results:

  • Rectal prolapse preceded CF diagnosis in 48 patients.
  • Prolapse often resolved with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy post-diagnosis.
  • Many patients self-managed prolapse, with surgery rarely needed.
  • Spontaneous resolution occurred in some undiagnosed cases by age 3-5.

Conclusions:

  • Rectal prolapse warrants consideration as an early sign of cystic fibrosis.
  • A sweat test is crucial for any child experiencing rectal prolapse.
  • Management strategies vary, with conservative approaches often effective.

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