Clinical identification of feeding and swallowing disorders in 0-6 month old infants with Down syndrome

Assessing Dysphagia in the Child

Swallowing problems in children can occur for a variety of reasons, and assessment varies based on the age of the child, underlying medical problems, and results of the clinical swallow evaluation. The need for interdisciplinary management with speech language pathologists skilled in the management of children with dysphagia is imperative to identify the components of swallowing that are impaired and provide specific recommendations for safe and adequate nutrition supporting growth, development, and oral feeding if possible. This study focuses on the types of assessment tools available and how and when they are utilized for children of different ages and abilities.

Neurologic Dysphagia

Dysphagia is commonly associated with neurologic/neuromuscular disorders including prematurity, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, genetic disorders, and neuromuscular diseases. This article aims to review the major categories of neurologic dysphagia, to outline specific findings and special considerations for each population, and to acknowledge the importance of integrating each patient's medical prognosis, goals of care, and developmental stage into a multidisciplinary treatment plan.

Factors influencing gastrostomy tube feeding duration and nutrition outcomes in pediatric patients with Down syndrome: A descriptive cohort study

BACKGROUND

Feeding difficulty is widely recognized in patients with Down syndrome, and many patients require gastrostomy tube (G-tube) placement for nutrition. No reliable factors have been identified to predict the expected duration of G-tube feeds in patients with Down syndrome. This descriptive cohort study aimed to determine the factors affecting the duration of G-tube feeds. We also investigated change in body mass index (BMI) from G-tube placement to discontinuation.

METHODS

Medical records of patients with Down syndrome seen by a pediatric gastroenterologist at a tertiary care center between September 1986 and December 2021 were reviewed. Data collection included demographics, anthropometrics, comorbidities, and feeding route. Comparison was performed between patients who discontinued G-tube feeds and those who did not.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty patients (45% female) were included. The median age at G-tube placement was 5 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.2-1.3 years). There were 113 (51%) patients who discontinued G-tube feeds, after a median duration of 31.6 months (IQR: 15.6-55.7 months). Tracheostomy was the only covariant associated with a longer duration of G-tube feeds (158 months vs 53 months; P = 0.002). Neither age at G-tube placement nor any comorbidities were associated with BMI status at discontinuation of G-tube.

CONCLUSION

In our cohort of patients with Down syndrome, age at placement of G-tube did not impact the duration of G-tube feeds. Most patients who had a G-tube placed were likely to require enteral feeds for at least 1 year. Those who had a tracheostomy needed their G-tube for a longer time.

Outcomes of atrioventricular septal defects with and without down syndrome: analysis of the national inpatient database

BACKGROUND

Controversial data exist about the impact of Down syndrome on outcomes after surgical repair of atrioventricular septal defect.

AIMS

(A) assess trends and outcomes of atrioventricular septal defect with and without Down syndrome and (B) determine risk factors associated with adverse outcomes after atrioventricular septal defect repair.

METHODS

We queried The National Inpatient Sample using International Classification of Disease codes for patients with atrioventricular septal defect < 1 year of age from 2000 to 2018. Patients' characteristics, co-morbidities, mortality, and healthcare utilisation were evaluated by comparing those with versus without Down syndrome.

RESULTS

In total, 2,318,706 patients with CHD were examined; of them, 61,101 (2.6%) had atrioventricular septal defect. The incidence of hospitalisation in infants with atrioventricular septal defect ranged from 4.5 to 7.5% of all infants hospitalised with CHD per year. A total of 33,453 (54.7%) patients were associated with Down syndrome. Double outlet right ventricle, coarctation of the aorta, and tetralogy of Fallot were the most commonly associated with CHD in 6.9, 5.7, and 4.3% of patients, respectively. Overall atrioventricular septal defect mortality was 6.3%. Multivariate analysis revealed that prematurity, low birth weight, pulmonary hypertension, and heart block were associated with mortality. Down syndrome was associated with a higher incidence of pulmonary hypertension (4.3 versus 2.8%, p < 0.001), less arrhythmia (6.6 versus 11.2%, p < 0.001), shorter duration for mechanical ventilation, shorter hospital stay, and less perioperative mortality (2.4 versus 11.1%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Trends in atrioventricular septal defect hospitalisation had been stable over time. Perioperative mortality in atrioventricular septal defect was associated with prematurity, low birth weight, pulmonary hypertension, heart block, acute kidney injury, and septicaemia. Down syndrome was present in more than half of atrioventricular septal defect patients and was associated with a higher incidence of pulmonary hypertension but less arrhythmia, lower mortality, shorter hospital stay, and less resource utilisation.

Recurrent Respiratory Infections in Children with Down Syndrome: A Review

Down Syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality compatible with life. The life of patients suffering from DS can be strongly impacted by Recurrent Respiratory tract Infections (RRIs), leading to an increased rate of hospitalisation, a higher need for intensive care and fatality. With a literature review, we summarise here the main etiological factors for RRI in this category of patients, particularly focusing on airway malformations such as tracheomalacia, tracheal bronchus and bronchomalacia, comorbidities associated with the syndrome, like congenital heart diseases, dysphagia, gastroesophageal reflux, musculoskeletal involvement and obesity, and immunologic impairments, involving both innate and adaptive immunity. For these patients, a multidisciplinary approach is imperative as well as some preventive strategies, in particular vaccinations in accordance with their national schedule for immunization.

The influence of food sensory properties on eating behaviours in children with Down syndrome

Developing new food products for children is challenging, particularly in vulnerable groups including children with Down syndrome (DS). Focusing on children with DS, the aim of this study was to study the influence of parent liking on acceptance of food products by children with DS and demonstrate the influence of food sensory properties on indicators of food acceptance, food rejection, and challenging eating behaviours. Children (ages 1158 months) with DS (n = 111) participated in a home use test evaluating snack products with varying sensory properties as profiled by a trained sensory panel. Parents recorded their children's reactions to each food product; trained coders coded videos for eating behaviours. To understand the influence of each sensory modality on eating behaviour, ordered probit regression models were run. Results found a significant correlation between the parent liking and overall child disposition to the food (p < 0.05). From the regression analysis, the inclusion of all food sensory properties, including texture, flavour, taste, product shape and size, improved the percentage of variance explained in child mealtime behaviours and overall disposition over the base model (containing no sensory modalities), with texture having the largest influence. Overstuffing the mouth, a challenging eating behaviour, was most influenced by product texture (children ≥ 30 months), and product texture and size (children < 30 months). In both age groups, coughing/choking/gagging was most influenced by food texture and was associated with a product that was grainy and angular (sharp corners). In both age groups, product acceptance was associated with a product that was dissolvable, crispy, and savoury while rejection was associated with a dense, gummy and fruity product. These results suggest that a dissolvable, crispy texture, with a cheesy or buttery flavour are the sensory properties important in a desirable flavoured commercial snack product for children with DS; however, overall disposition must be balanced against mouth overstuffing.

Comprehensive Manometric Evaluation of Dysphagia in Patients with Down Syndrome

Dysphagia is a common symptom in children with Down syndrome and is conventionally evaluated with imaging and endoscopy; high-resolution manometry is not routinely utilized. The aim of this study was to describe and correlate pharyngeal and esophageal manometry findings with contrast studies and endoscopy in patients with Down syndrome and dysphagia. Electronic medical records of patients with Down syndrome with dysphagia seen at our center between January 2008 and January 2022 were reviewed. Data collected included demographics, co-morbidities, symptoms, imaging, endoscopy, and manometry. Twenty-four patients with Down syndrome [median age of 14.9 years (IQR 7.6, 20.5), 20.8% female] met inclusion criteria. Common presenting symptoms of dysphagia included vomiting or regurgitation in 15 (62.5%) patients, and choking, gagging, or retching in 10 (41.7%) patients. Esophageal manometry was abnormal in 18/22 (81.2%) patients. The most common findings were ineffective esophageal motility in 9 (40.9%) followed by esophageal aperistalsis in 8 (36.4%) patients. Rumination pattern was noted in 5 (22.8%) patients. All 6 (25%) patients who previously had fundoplication had esophageal dysmotility. Strong agreement was noted between upper gastrointestinal studies and high-resolution esophageal manometry (p = 1.0) but no agreement was found between pharyngeal manometry and video fluoroscopic swallow studies (p = 0.041). High-resolution pharyngeal and esophageal manometry provide complementary objective data that may be critical in tailoring therapeutic strategies for managing patients with Down syndrome with dysphagia.

Birth-related, medical, and diagnostic characteristics in younger versus older children with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)

BACKGROUND

Although avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) presents the replacement and extension of feeding disorders of infancy and childhood, previous research into ARFID concentrated mainly on older patients. While birth-related characteristics play an etiologic role in feeding disorders, virtually nothing is known so far in ARFID. Therefore, the first aim of the study was to identify differences in birth-related characteristics in younger vs. older children with ARFID. Second, differences in physical and mental comorbidities, and third, diagnostic features between age groups were analysed.

METHODS

Among N = 51 in- and outpatient treatment-seeking patients, n = 23 patients aged 0-5 years (30% girls) and n = 28 patients aged 6-17 years (57% girls), with an interview-based diagnosis of ARFID were included. Data on the pre- and perinatal period and mental and physical comorbidities were derived from patients' medical records, while diagnostic criteria, main ARFID presentation, and sociodemographic variables were collected through diagnostic interview.

RESULTS

Significantly, younger patients with ARFID were born more often preterm and had more pre- and perinatal complications and a higher incidence of postnatal invasive procedures. Patients with ARFID aged 0-5 years presented significantly more physical comorbidities and conditions, especially congenital anomalies, while mental comorbidities, especially mood disorders, were significantly more common in patients with ARFID aged 6-17 years. No age differences were found for the distribution of diagnostic criteria and main ARFID presentation.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study which aimed to identify age-specific characteristics in patients with ARFID with potential relevance for diagnosis and treatment. Especially birth-related complications, including invasive procedures postnatally, may be associated with developing ARFID, highlighting the importance of a closer view on these potential risk factors of the disorder. Future research with longitudinal design and larger samples may allow more detailed information on further age-specific associations, symptom trajectories, and age-specific risk factors for ARFID.

Otitis Media in Children with Down Syndrome Is Associated with Shifts in the Nasopharyngeal and Middle Ear Microbiotas

Background: Otitis media (OM) is defined as middle ear (ME) inflammation that is usually due to infection. Globally, OM is a leading cause of hearing loss and is the most frequently diagnosed disease in young children. For OM, pediatric patients with Down syndrome (DS) demonstrate higher incidence rates, greater severity, and poorer outcomes. However, to date, no studies have investigated the bacterial profiles of children with DS and OM. Method: We aimed to determine if there are differences in composition of bacterial profiles or the relative abundance of individual taxa within the ME and nasopharyngeal (NP) microbiotas of pediatric OM patients with DS (n = 11) compared with those without DS (n = 84). We sequenced the 16S rRNA genes and analyzed the sequence data for diversity indices and relative abundance of individual taxa. Results: Individuals with DS demonstrated increased biodiversity in their ME and NP microbiotas. In children with OM, DS was associated with increased biodiversity and higher relative abundance of specific taxa in the ME. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that dysbioses in the NP of DS children contributes to their increased susceptibility to OM compared with controls. These findings suggest that DS influences regulation of the mucosal microbiota and contributes to OM pathology.

Laryngeal Penetration and Risk of Aspiration Pneumonia in Children with Dysphagia-A Systematic Review

This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis that assessed the risk of aspiration pneumonia in children with laryngeal penetration or tracheal aspiration via a video-fluoroscopic study (VFSS) and compared the results to those for children with neither condition. Systematic searches were conducted using databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Meta-analysis was used to obtain summary odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The overall quality of evidence was assessed using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) criteria. In total, 13 studies were conducted with 3159 participants. Combined results from six studies showed that laryngeal penetration on VFSS may be associated with aspiration pneumonia compared to no laryngeal penetration; however, the summary estimate was imprecise and included the possibility of no association (OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.94, 2.19, evidence certainty: low). Data from seven studies showed that tracheal aspiration might be associated with aspiration pneumonia compared to no tracheal aspiration (OR 2.72, 95% CI 1.86, 3.98, evidence certainty: moderate). The association between aspiration pneumonia and laryngeal penetration through VFSS seems to be weaker than that for tracheal aspiration. Prospective cohort studies with clear definitions of laryngeal penetration and that measure clinical and patient reported outcomes are needed to further define the association between laryngeal penetration and aspiration pneumonia.

Dysphagia severity is associated with worse sleep-disordered breathing in infants with Down syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Hypotonia, commonly seen in infants with Down syndrome (I-DS), can contribute to masticatory and oropharyngeal muscle weakness, increasing the risk for dysphagia and sleep-disordered breathing. Data describing the occurrence of dysphagia and sleep-disordered breathing in I-DS are limited. This study aims to determine the frequency and severity of dysphagia and its relationship to polysomnogram parameters in I-DS.

METHODS

We included I-DS who underwent polysomnography at a single academic center over a 6-year period. Data collected included sex, age, presence of dysphagia (low suspicion of dysphagia vs dysphagia vs feeding tube), and polysomnographic data. Dysphagia was determined by a video fluoroscopic swallow study in the presence of clinical suspicion.

RESULTS

A total of 40 I-DS were identified (mean age 6.6 months ± 3; male 65%). There were 11, 13, and 16 I-DS with low suspicion of dysphagia, dysphagia, and feeding tube, respectively. Obstructive sleep apnea was more severe in I-DS in the feeding tube group when compared with the group with a low suspicion of dysphagia and (apnea-hypopnea index mean [standard error] = 49.3 [7.6] vs 19.2 [9.2] events/h; P = .016). Dysphagia severity was positively correlated with a higher obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (r = .43, P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a high incidence of dysphagia and sleep-disordered breathing in I-DS. Dysphagia severity correlated with obstructive apnea-hypopnea index severity. Our results suggest that I-DS need early evaluation of both sleep-disordered breathing and dysphagia.

CITATION

Cho Y, Kwon Y, DelRosso L, Sobremonte-King M. Dysphagia severity is associated with worse sleep-disordered breathing in infants with Down syndrome. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(5):883-887.

Sleep Apnea in Children With Down Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

The authors of this study aimed to evaluate the use of polysomnography (PSG) in children with Down syndrome (DS) between ages 0 and 7 years, to assess the prevalence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and associated comorbidities, and to describe interventions used for OSA.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center for children with DS born between 2013 and 2019. Data were extracted from the electronic medical record, including demographics, age at PSG, PSG results, and interventions after an abnormal PSG. Statistical analysis included unadjusted bivariate association testing and multivariable logistic regression modeling to investigate associations with OSA severity.

RESULTS

Among 397 patients in the cohort, 59% (n = 235) had a documented PSG and 94% (n = 221) had an abnormal study with 60% (n = 141) demonstrating moderate or severe OSA. There was an inverse relationship between age and OSA severity (P < .001). In a multiple regression model, OSA severity was associated with increased rates of failure to thrive (P < .01), aspiration (P = .02), and laryngomalacia (P < .01). After medical or surgical intervention, 73% of patients experienced the resolution of OSA or an improvement in OSA severity.

CONCLUSION

In this study of pediatric patients with DS, OSA was identified most frequently in the first year of life. In addition, to prompt evaluation of symptomatic infants, our data support earlier PSG screening for patients requiring neonatal ICU care and those with feeding difficulties, airway abnormalities, and/or pulmonary hypertension given their increased risk for severe OSA.

Aspiration in the First Year of Life and Later Tube Feeding: A Retrospective Cohort from a Low-Income Country

The objective of this study is to investigate in infants submitted to videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) during the first year of life, the association between aspiration and later tube feeding, and to identify potential risk factors related to feeding route outcome. Retrospective cohort study with data from electronic health records was performed. Data were collected from infants < 12 months of age who underwent VFSS during inpatient hospital stay in the period between 2013 and 2018. Patient charts after 24 months of age were reviewed to ascertain the outcome and study factors, including VFSS findings, neonatal data, clinical comorbidities, nutritional status, ICU admissions, and hospital readmissions. Relative risk (RR) for tube feeding was calculated, and a Poisson regression with robust variance was used to identify potential risk factors. VFSS data from 164 patients < 1 year old were retrieved, of whom 112 (68%) contributed with data about feeding route after 2 years of age. Most infants were preterm < 37 weeks (66%), with a median age of 9.28 weeks at the time of the exam. Aspiration occurred in 33% of the patients, with no statistically significant difference between full-term or premature infants (p = 0.173). The relative risk of tube feeding after the age of 2 among infants who aspirated in VFSS was 0.74 (CI 0.25-2.16, p = 0.573). Poisson regression analysis showed that number of hospital readmissions (RR 1.04, 95%CI 1.01-1.07, p = 0.005) and gestational age < 34 weeks (RR 0.26, 95%CI 0.07-0.089, p = 0.032) were associated with later tube feeding. Early VFSS findings have low predictive value regarding later feeding route. Aspiration events should be considered as complementary information for clinical decision.

Risk Factors for Tube Feeding at Discharge in Infants Undergoing Neonatal Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease: A Systematic Review

Approximately 30-50% of infants undergoing neonatal surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) cannot meet oral feeding goals by discharge and require feeding tube support at home. Feeding tubes are associated with increased readmission rates and consequent hospital, payer, and family costs, and are a burden for family caregivers. Identification of modifiable risk factors for oral feeding problems could support targeted care for at-risk infants. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review is to determine risk factors for tube feeding at discharge in infants undergoing neonatal surgery for CHD. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a search was conducted using MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Studies published before 2010 were excluded. The search resulted in 607 records, of which 18 were included. Studies were primarily retrospective cohort designs and results were often inconsistent. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Tools. As a group, the studies exhibited substantial risk for bias. Based on the findings, infants who struggle with feeding preoperatively, experience increased nil per os duration and/or low oral feeding volume postoperatively, experience increased duration of mechanical ventilation, or have vocal cord dysfunction may be at risk for tube feeding at hospital discharge. Factors warranting further examination include cardiac physiology (e.g., aortic arch obstruction) and the relationship between neurodevelopment and oral feeding. Clinicians should use caution in assuming risk for an individual and prioritize early implementation of interventions that facilitate oral feeding development.

Swallowing Related Problems of Toddlers with Down Syndrome

The study was aimed to define swallowing related problems of toddlers with Down syndrome (DS) by comparing toddlers with typically developing children (TDC). A total of 127 children (96 DS, 31 TDC), and their mothers included in the study. The presence of chewing disorders, food selectivity, drooling, coughing during swallowing was scored as 'absent' or 'present'. The Pediatric version of the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (PEDI EAT-10) was used to determine dysphagia symptom severity, and the Turkish version of the Feeding/Swallowing Impact Survey (T-FS-IS) was used to measure the impact of swallowing disorders on caregivers. Mothers of DS reported higher rates of chewing disorders (n = 39, 40.6%), drooling (n = 30, 31.3%) and coughing during swallowing (n = 50, 41.7%) than mothers of TDC (p < 0.01). The mean PEDI-EAT-10 score of children with DS was higher than TDC (p = 0.006). There were significant differences between groups in terms of T-FS-IS. Moderate to strong correlations were detected between PEDI-EAT-10 and total and subscale scores from T-FS-IS (p < 0.001). This prospective study defines swallowing related problems of toddlers with DS. The study results highlight the importance of early investigation of (i) swallowing concerns in children with DS, and (ii) caregivers' quality of life to define swallowing problems and plan an appropriate swallowing related management program.

Eating behaviors in children with down syndrome: Results of a home-use test

Children with Down syndrome (DS) display a disproportionate number of health challenges, including feeding and swallowing difficulties and food texture sensitivities. To start addressing food texture challenges early in life, the aim of this research was to understand mealtime behaviors and identify preferred food textures of children with DS. Children (aged 11 to 58 months) with DS (n = 111) and without (typically developing, TD; n = 107) participated in a home use test evaluating snack products of varying textures. Parents recorded their children's reactions to each food product; a panel of trained coders coded videos for mealtime behaviors. Children were also identified as food texture sensitive (TS) or non-texture sensitive (NTS). Results showed that age, TS, the presence of a DS diagnosis and the TS*DS interaction influenced the child's behaviors to the food products. Children with DS were more likely to increase distance from the food, mouth/suck on the food, and less likely to chew/much on the food compared to children TD. Children with DS also ate significantly less than typically developing children. Similar mealtime behaviors were observed between the children with TD/<30 months of age and children with DS regardless of age (p < .05). While children with DS/TS had a higher disposition for the dissolvable texture, along with products that were salty and cheesy, children with DS/NTS had a greater tolerance for more textures in general, including crunchy and grainy. Overall, this research identified mealtime behaviors in children with DS, determined overall disposition of children with DS to foods of differences sensory properties, and demonstrated the influence of TS on a child's disposition to a food. This research will be extended to develop acceptable and innovative food products for children with DS/TS.

Use of breast milk in infants with uncomplicated gastroschisis: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Infants with gastroschisis often experience slow return of bowel function following closure. The purpose of this study was to determine whether exclusive breast milk is associated with decreased time to enteral autonomy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of infants with uncomplicated gastroschisis from a tertiary pediatric hospital. The primary outcome was enteral autonomy, defined as days from initiating enteral feeds to stopping parenteral nutrition. Secondary outcomes included days of parenteral nutrition, length of stay, positive culture, necrotizing enterocolitis, cholestasis, additional surgery, readmission, and mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 100 infants with gastroschisis treated from 2005 to 2019. Twenty-five were excluded due to gestational age <32 weeks, birth weight <1500 g, or gastroschisis-associated complications (e.g., intestinal atresia). Seventy-five were included in the analysis. Mean gestational age was 36 weeks, 48% were female, and all were diagnosed antenatally. Sixty-five infants (87%) received exclusive maternal (n = 64) or donor (n = 1) breast milk, while 10 others (13%) were fed formula for 1-16 days (mean 7 days). Two infants received formula only. Demographics and gastroschisis prognostic scores were similar between groups. Infants who were given breast milk exclusively demonstrated decreased time to enteral autonomy (median 18 versus 25 days, p = 0.023) and shorter duration of parenteral nutrition (median 20 versus 26 days, p = 0.037).

CONCLUSION

Exclusive breast milk may be associated with improved outcomes among infants with gastroschisis. Further research is needed to evaluate the economic impact of this association and explore possible confounders. These efforts may expand the role of donor breast milk for these patients.

Otolaryngologic Disease in Down syndrome

As the most common human chromosomal abnormality, Trisomy 21 is a condition that many otolaryngologists and likely all pediatric otolaryngologists will encounter during their careers. There are several considerations regarding airway obstruction, otologic conditions, anesthetic implications, and endocrine disorders that will impact the treatment of these patients. Further, there is increasing literature supporting the use of early instrumental assessment of swallowing, drug-induced sleep endoscopy at the time of first surgical intervention for sleep apnea, consideration of concurrent upper and lower airway evaluation, and early otologic management including potential surgical hearing rehabilitation.

Introduction of Complementary Foods for Children with Down Syndrome: Parent and Physician Experiences

AIMS

Children with Down syndrome are at risk for feeding difficulties due to medical comorbidities and associated developmental delays, yet there are no peer-reviewed published standards to guide families with feeding progression. This study explored family experiences introducing complementary foods (e.g., purees, table food) for children with Down syndrome. A secondary aim was to describe primary care provider (PCP) training on early progression of feeding for children with Down syndrome and investigate the recommendations they gave families.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews with twenty-two parents and eight primary care providers (PCPs) were conducted. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample and to report on findings related to feeding milestones. Qualitative interview data were considered in an iterative and cyclical fashion.

RESULTS

Parental themes included differences in feeding for children with Down syndrome, limited guidance that was not always followed, feeding difficulties and related stress, and gross motor milestone acquisition related to feeding milestones. PCP themes included limited resources/training, providing similar recommendations for children with and without Down syndrome, and desire for training/resources.

CONCLUSIONS

Published guidelines on feeding progression for children with Down syndrome are needed, including considerations for determining when skill and interest converge to signal safe introduction of complementary foods.

Pulmonary complications in children with Down syndrome: A scoping review

CONTEXT

Down syndrome (DS) is a prevalent chromosomal disorder associated with a wide range of congenital anomalies and other health problems.

OBJECTIVES

To give a scoping overview of encountered lower airway problems (both infectious and non-infectious) in DS children.

DATA SOURCES

We systematically searched the MEDLINE and PubMed databases for relevant publications.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies were eligible if they were original studies about pediatric airway problems in DS and were evaluated by the PRISMA guidelines.

DATA EXTRACTION

Data concerning patient characteristics, study methods and outcomes were critically reviewed.

RESULTS

Sixty papers were included. These were reviewed and summarized by topic, i.e. airway anomalies, dysphagia and aspiration, lower respiratory tract infections (and bronchiolitis in particular), pulmonary hypertension and other. Respiratory problems are proven to be a frequent and a major health burden in DS children. Airway anomalies (both single and multiple) are more prevalent and require a specific approach. A large proportion of DS children have (often silent) aspiration, resulting in protracted and difficult-to-treat symptoms. Respiratory tract infections are usually more severe and associated with an increased need for (prolonged) hospitalization. Pulmonary hypertension, wheeze and some other rare conditions are more commonly encountered in DS.

LIMITATIONS

Large number of studies and high levels of study heterogeneity.

CONCLUSIONS

Several lower airway problems are more frequent and more complex in children with DS. These findings emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach by an experienced team allowing for a prompt diagnosis, proper management and improved long term outcome.

Can I breastfeed my baby with Down syndrome? A scoping review

AIM

To summarise existing evidence about barriers and enablers to breastfeeding babies with Down syndrome (DS) in peer-reviewed literature.

METHODS

Ovid Medline, CINAHL, Scopus and Ovid Emcare were searched. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to screen yielded articles and those meeting the criteria were included for data extraction. Two authors extracted data including outcomes, design, definition of DS, barriers and enablers to breastfeeding babies with DS.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Barriers and enablers were categorised into maternal, child and health professional factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This review identified a significant literature gap related to breastfeeding babies with DS and more definitive research under current standards is needed. Mothers reported the need for high-quality health professional breastfeeding support and evidence-based effective breastfeeding techniques. A collaborated and concerted approach from both mothers and health professionals is important to optimise breastfeeding for babies with DS.

Airway obstruction and inflammation on combined bronchoscopy in children with Down syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the upper and lower airway findings in children with Down syndrome and chronic respiratory symptoms, based on evaluation by flexible bronchoscopy (FB) with bronchoalveolar lavage and microlaryngoscopy with bronchoscopy (MLB).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review was conducted of children with Down syndrome aged 1 month to 17 years, who underwent both FB and MLB within a 1-year timeframe between 2010 and 2019 at Children's Hospital Colorado. Anatomic airway findings are reported as frequencies within the cohort. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) culture results, cell differential, and cytopathology are reported as frequencies or mean ± standard deviation. BALF results were compared between children with and without dysphagia documented on a recent swallow evaluation.

RESULTS

Overall, 168 children with Down syndrome were included, with median age of 2.1 years (interquartile range: 0.9-5.1 years). At least one abnormal airway finding was recorded in 96% of patients and 46% had at least three abnormal findings. The most common findings included tracheomalacia (39% FB; 37% MLB), subglottic stenosis (35% MLB), pharyngomalacia (32% FB), and laryngomalacia (16% FB; 30% MLB). Comparison of BALF based on dysphagia status showed that children with dysphagia had more frequent cultures positive for mixed upper respiratory flora (76% vs. 47%, p = 0.004) and a higher percentage of neutrophils (20% vs. 7%, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Abnormal findings for FB and MLB are common in children with Down syndrome and chronic respiratory symptoms, and performing the procedures together may increase the diagnostic yield.

Validation of the Childhood Dysphagia Management Scale (CDMS): An Impact Scale for determining medical home for dysphagia

BACKGROUND

The results and recommendations from instrumental assessments of swallowing do not, by themselves, provide guidance regarding the type of medical management that might be needed for the pediatric patient with dysphagia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Childhood Dysphagia Management Scale (CDMS), a clinical scale developed to estimate the impact of dysphagia and determine the need for a multidisciplinary medical home to manage dysphagia.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study implemented in three phases to evaluate validity and reliability of the CDMS. Analyses for internal consistency, inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, repeated measure, content, structural, criterion and external validity and hypothesis testing were conducted.

RESULTS

This study established content, structural, internal, external, and criterion validity of the CDMS. The CDMS was found to have robust inter-rater (κ = 0.776) and intra-rater reliability (κ = 0.853), and consistency across repeated measures (κ = 0.853). Providers who used the CDMS had a high level of agreement with the recommended medical management plan. CDMS scores correlated (F(5,118) = 22.105, p < 0.001) with Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) scores confirming that patients with significant diet restrictions were more likely to be referred for multidisciplinary care. To establish external validity, the CDMS was administered to a higher risk group, patients with Down syndrome, who were more likely to be referred for multidisciplinary care based on CDMS results versus the general swallowing disorders clinic population (F(1,281) = 24.357, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The CDMS is a reliable and valid scale for guiding decision-making regarding the medical home for pediatric dysphagia management.

Hypoxemia in infants with trisomy 21 in the neonatal intensive care unit

OBJECTIVE

Newborns with trisomy 21 (T21) often require NICU hospitalization. Oxygen desaturations are frequently observed in these infants, even in the absence of congenital heart defects (CHD). We hypothesized that NICU patients with T21 have more hypoxemia than those without T21.

DESIGN

All infants with T21 without significant CHD discharged home from the NICU between 2009 and 2018 were included (n = 23). Controls were matched 20:1 for gestational age and length of stay. We compared daily severe hypoxemia events (SpO₂ < 80% for ≥10 s) for the whole NICU stay and the pre-discharge week.

RESULTS

Infants with T21 showed significantly more daily hypoxemia events during their entire NICU stay (median 10 versus 7, p = 0.0064), and more so in their final week (13 versus 7, p = 0.0008).

CONCLUSION

NICU patients with T21 without CHD experience more severe hypoxemia events than controls, particularly in the week before discharge. Whether this hypoxemia predicts or contributes to adverse outcomes is unknown.

Pneumonia and respiratory infection in Down syndrome: A 10-year cohort analysis of inpatient and outpatient encounters across the lifespan

Respiratory illnesses are a significant contributor of morbidity and mortality among persons with Down syndrome (DS). Reviews have described respiratory illnesses of DS in childhood, but few have looked across the lifespan. Retrospective chart review of patients in our DS program with clinical encounters for respiratory illnesses from 2011 to 2020 was completed. Eighteen percent of clinical encounters were due to respiratory illnesses. Of these, 120 were seen in the emergency department, 88 were admitted, and 21 were seen in urgent care. Common comorbidities included congenital heart disease, asthma, and dysphagia. Admission was common for children under the age of 5 years and adults over the age of 45 years. Admitted patients were more likely to have history of pneumonia and chronic lung disease. Of admitted patients, 77% required supplemental oxygen and 46% required intensive care unit admission. Our findings highlight that respiratory illnesses are a common cause of healthcare utilization among patients with DS, particularly early in childhood and later in life. Patients were seen predominately in outpatient settings; when an inpatient setting was needed, they frequently required higher levels of care. With our findings, clinicians can stratify patients most at risk for respiratory infections and provide targeted monitoring.

Prevalence of breastfeeding in children with congenital heart diseases and down syndrome

BACKGROUND

According to the World Health Organization, the worldwide incidence of Down syndrome is one in a thousand live births a year. Of these, it is estimated that 20-60% have congenital heart disease, a factor that hinders breastfeeding. Considering the numerous benefits of breastfeeding, a study verifying this prevalence in children with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease is indispensable, and this is not yet evidenced in the literature. The aim of this study is to verify the prevalence of breastfeeding in children with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease admitted to a referral hospital in cardiology.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with 62 patients, aged between 0 and 5 years. Anthropometric variables (weight, height) and data related to breastfeeding were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS® version 26.0 statistical software.

RESULTS

The prevalence of breastfeeding was of 80.6%, but the median of exclusive breastfeeding was of only 3 days. Only 38.7% received breastfeeding for more than 6 months. The main reasons for interruption were difficulty in sucking and tiredness to breastfeed. Statistical significance was evidenced when comparing the time of exclusive breastfeeding and maintenance with the mother's education, with p = 0.006 and p = 0.041, respectively. No relationship was found between nutritional status and breastfeeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the high prevalence of breastfeeding, the maintenance time is well below the recommendations. Therefore, further monitoring and promotion of breastfeeding is necessary for this population, given the countless benefits of breast milk.

Growth Patterns of Thai Children with Down Syndrome from Birth to 5 Years

Specific growth charts for children with Down syndrome (DS) have been developed in several countries, but not in Thailand. This pilot study aims to develop growth patterns for Thai children with DS, which will help clinicians to improve assessment and monitoring of the growth patterns for these children. A retrospective review of 80 children with DS who received care at Thammasat University Hospital between 2014 and 2018 was conducted. A total of 1,681 length/height and weight measurements were collected. Four sex-specific growth patterns of length/height and weight were generated with the fifth, 50th, and 95th percentile. The children with DS were lower in weight and shorter than general Thai children and children with DS in other countries. Therefore, each country should develop individual DS growth charts.

Evaluation of the craniofacial and oral characteristics of individuals with Down syndrome: A review of the literature

The aim of this investigation was to describe the craniofacial and oral characteristics of children and/or adolescents with and without Down syndrome (DS). A bibliographic search of the Medline database (via PubMed), Scopus and SCIELO was performed using the keywords "craniofacial characteristics", "dental characteristics" and "Down syndrome". Systematic reviews, observational cross-sectional and longitudinal studies were included. On the contrary, case reports, letters to the editor, editorials and opinion articles were excluded. 251 articles were recovered, and only 30 fulfilled the selection criteria. DS patients were characterized by reduced dimensions of the maxillary bone, mandible, and skull base, compared to normal patients. Likewise, some of these abnormalities influenced more frequent presentation of a class III malocclusion in these patients. On the other hand, this population group showed a higher prevalence of periodontal diseases, less risk of dental caries, and the presence of alterations in the tongue, lips, dental development and palate morphology. The quality of life of these individuals is affected by difficulties in swallowing, talking, eating or breathing through the nose. In conclusion, the craniofacial and oral characteristics of DS patients present various alterations compared to healthy patients, and these alterations have a negative impact on their quality of life.

Pneumonia and respiratory infections in Down syndrome: A scoping review of the literature

Pneumonia and respiratory infections impact infants and children with Down syndrome; pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality in adults with Down syndrome. We aimed to review the literature to evaluate gaps and address key questions. A series of key questions were formulated a priori to inform the search strategy and review process; addressed prevalence, severity, etiology, risk factors, preventive methods, screening, and financial costs, potential benefits or harms of screening. Using the National Library of Medicine database, PubMed, detailed literature searches on pneumonia and respiratory infections in Down syndrome were performed. Previously identified review articles were also assessed. The quality of available evidence was then evaluated and knowledge gaps were identified. Forty-two relevant original articles were identified which addressed at least one key question. Study details including research design, internal validity, external validity, and relevant results are presented. Pneumonia and respiratory infections are more prevalent and more severe in individuals with Down syndrome compared to healthy controls through literature review, yet there are gaps in the literature regarding the etiology of pneumonia, the infectious organism, risk factors for infection, and to guide options for prevention and screening. There is urgent need for additional research studies in Down syndrome, especially in the time of the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Airway protection & patterns of dysphagia in infants with down syndrome: Videofluoroscopic swallow study findings & correlations

INTRODUCTION

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that affects 1:737 births. Along with cardiac, otolaryngologic, and developmental anomalies, infants with Down syndrome can have swallowing difficulties resulting in respiratory infections. This study aims to characterize the airway protection and dysphagia seen in infants with Down syndrome.

METHODS

This is a retrospective chart review of infants with Down syndrome who underwent videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) from 2008 to 2018 at a tertiary children's hospital. Demographic data and VFSS findings were collected.

RESULTS

89.8% (114/127) of infants presented with at least one element of oral dysphagia, while 72.4% (92/127) had at least one element of pharyngeal dysphagia. Sucking skills were classified as abnormal in 63.7% of the patients and bolus formation-control was determined to be deficient (abnormal) in 62.2% of the patients. Oral residuals were present in 37.8% of the patients. With regard to pharyngeal phase, the swallow initiation was considered abnormal in 53.5% of the patients. Pharyngeal residue was present in 17.3% and pharyngo-nasal reflux was present in 27.5% of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Swallowing assessments in infants with Down syndrome suspected of dysphagia should be considered, especially in those with any alterations in pulmonary health.

Skeletal dynamics of Down syndrome: A developing perspective

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) display distinctive skeletal morphology compared to the general population, but disparate descriptions, methodologies, analyses, and populations sampled have led to diverging conclusions about this unique skeletal phenotype. As individuals with DS are living longer, they may be at a higher risk of aging disorders such as osteoporosis and increased fracture risk. Sexual dimorphism has been suggested between males and females with DS in which males, not females, experience an earlier decline in bone mineral density (BMD). Unfortunately, studies focusing on skeletal health related to Trisomy 21 (Ts21) are few in number and often too underpowered to answer questions about skeletal development, resultant osteoporosis, and sexual dimorphism, especially in stages of bone accrual. Further confounding the field are the varied methods of bone imaging, analysis, and data interpretation. This review takes a critical look at the current knowledge of DS skeletal phenotypes, both from human and mouse studies, and presents knowledge gaps that need to be addressed, differences in research methodologies and analyses that affect the interpretation of results, and proposes guidelines for overcoming obstacles to understand skeletal traits associated with DS. By examining our current knowledge of bone in individuals with Ts21, a trajectory for future studies may be established to provide meaningful solutions for understanding the development of and improving skeletal structures in individuals with and without DS.

Suckling, Feeding, and Swallowing: Behaviors, Circuits, and Targets for Neurodevelopmental Pathology

All mammals must suckle and swallow at birth, and subsequently chew and swallow solid foods, for optimal growth and health. These initially innate behaviors depend critically upon coordinated development of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, and larynx as well as the cranial nerves that control these structures. Disrupted suckling, feeding, and swallowing from birth onward-perinatal dysphagia-is often associated with several neurodevelopmental disorders that subsequently alter complex behaviors. Apparently, a broad range of neurodevelopmental pathologic mechanisms also target oropharyngeal and cranial nerve differentiation. These aberrant mechanisms, including altered patterning, progenitor specification, and neurite growth, prefigure dysphagia and may then compromise circuits for additional behavioral capacities. Thus, perinatal dysphagia may be an early indicator of disrupted genetic and developmental programs that compromise neural circuits and yield a broad range of behavioral deficits in neurodevelopmental disorders.

Effect of Trisomy 21 on Postoperative Length of Stay and Non-cardiac Surgery After Complete Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot

Trisomy 21 (T21) is the most common chromosomal abnormality, and is frequently associated with congenital heart disease. Results of previous studies evaluating the effect of T21 on postoperative outcomes and complications following heart surgery have been mixed. Our goal was to determine if T21 is associated with higher frequency of adverse postoperative outcomes following repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). A query of the Pediatric Health Information System was performed for patients who underwent complete repair of TOF from 2004 to 2015. Patients with a genetic syndrome other than T21 and tracheostomy and/or gastrostomy prior to heart surgery were excluded. Two groups were created on the basis of whether patients received a diagnostic code for T21. The adverse outcomes of interest were postoperative mortality, postoperative length of stay (LOS), postoperative gastrostomy, and postoperative tracheostomy. Univariate and Kaplan-Meier analysis were performed to evaluate outcomes. There were a total of 4790 patients; 430 (9%) patients had T21, and 4360 (91%) patients without a genetic diagnosis. There was no significant difference in mortality before discharge between those with and without T21 (2.3% vs 1.4%; p = 0.155). Patients with T21 had longer postoperative LOS (mean of 19.8 days vs 12.4 days; p < 0.001), and higher rates of postoperative gastrostomy (13.3% vs 5.3%; p < 0.02). There was no significant difference between groups for rates of postoperative tracheostomy (1.9% vs 1.2%; p = 0.276). Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed that patients with T21 had longer postoperative LOS and greater incidence of gastrostomy.

Associations between age, respiratory comorbidities, and dysphagia in infants with down syndrome

OBJECTIVES

Children with Down syndrome (DS) have a high risk of dysphagia and the pediatric pulmonologist may be involved in diagnosis and management. The objective of this study is to evaluate the associations between age, dysphagia, and medical comorbidities in young children with DS. We hypothesized that swallow study findings are more likely to change in younger infants and that medical comorbidities may be associated with dysphagia.

STUDY DESIGN

Results of videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) from 2010 to 2016 were collected retrospectively in children with DS with initial swallow study at less than 12 months of age. Results were analyzed for findings and change based on age at initial study, reason for referral, and medical comorbidities.

RESULTS

One hundred eleven infants with 247 VFSS and 14 FEES were included. Deep laryngeal penetration and/or aspiration were found in 31.9% of infants less than 6 months and 51.3% of infants 6 to 12 months. Children with initial swallow study performed at greater than or equal to 6 months of age were more likely (80.0%) to have unchanged findings on follow-up study compared to children imaged at less than 6 months (35.3%). Laryngomalacia, pulmonary hypertension, pneumonia, and congenital cardiac disease were associated with dysphagia.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed that dysphagia is common in infants with DS and comorbidities and provided preliminary evidence that swallow study findings may be more likely to change in children tested under 6 months of age. Providers should consider that results for instrumental swallow studies may change, particularly if the test was completed on a young infant.

Feeding Outcomes in Neonates With Trisomy 21 and Duodenal Atresia

BACKGROUND

Duodenal atresia (DA), a common cause of congenital duodenal obstruction, is associated with trisomy 21. The postoperative feeding issues are not well described in this population. We hypothesize that the combination of DA and trisomy 21 is associated with the need for postoperative enteral feeding access.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients between 2010 and 2017 with the diagnosis of DA or duodenal stenosis was identified. Relevant prenatal and postnatal clinical data were abstracted. Univariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Forty-three patients were identified. Nineteen patients (44%) were diagnosed with trisomy 21. Eight patients (25% with trisomy 21) had gastrostomy placed at the time of DA repair. In the remaining patients (n = 35), 40% ultimately had a gastrostomy button placed. The indications for placement included poor oral skills (n = 8), aspiration (n = 5), and failure to thrive (n = 1). All these patients had trisomy 21, resulting in 82.4% of trisomy 21 patients having a gastrostomy. There was a significant association between trisomy 21 and placement of a gastrostomy button both during index admission (P = 0.003) and lifetime (P < 0.001). All trisomy 21 patients with congenital heart disease (n = 9) had a gastrostomy placed versus only five of eight trisomy 21 patients (62.5%) without structural heart disease (P = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that a correlation exists between trisomy 21, structural congenital heart anomalies, DA, and the eventual need for gastrostomy. These data should inform operative planning for this patient population.