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Zeng XL, Zhu LJ, Yang XD. Exploration of the complex origins of primary constipation. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:5476-5482. [DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i24.5476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty in passing stools. It can significantly affect an individual's quality of life and overall well-being. Understanding the causes of constipation is important for its effective management and treatment. In this paper, we have reviewed the primary causes of constipation or functional constipation. Primary constipation is a bowel disorder associated with colonic or anorectal sensorimotor or neuromuscular dysfunction. As per the literature, it is multifactorial and involves factors such as decreased interstitial cells of Cajal, altered colonic motility, enteric nervous system dysfunction, intestinal flora disturbances, and psychological influences. Clinical symptoms include difficulty in defecation, decreased frequency of defecation, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. A comprehensive evaluation and management of constipation require an interdisciplinary approach incorporating dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, and psychological interventions. Further research is imperative to explain the intricate mechanisms underlying constipation and develop targeted therapies for improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Lin Zeng
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lian-Jun Zhu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Yang
- Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Chengdu Anorectal Hospital, Chengdu 610015, Sichuan Province, China
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Chowdhury K, Sinha S, Kumar S, Haque M, Ahmad R. Constipation: A Pristine Universal Pediatric Health Delinquent. Cureus 2024; 16:e52551. [PMID: 38249647 PMCID: PMC10797657 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Constipation suffered by children is a global public health problem. Functional constipation (FC) brings about deteriorating effects in the children's lives who suffer from it. The risk factors for the development of constipation include the consumption of a diet low in fiber and high in calories (such as the consumption of fast food), a sedentary lifestyle with a lack of exercise, a family history of constipation, and emotional and psychological stress endured by children in their families. It is one of the most common causes of stomachaches in children. FC may lead to fecal incontinence (FI), anal fissures, recurrent urinary tract infections (RUTI), and enuresis in children. Severe constipation may result in stool becoming rock-hard and inflexible in the rectum, which is clinically identified as fecal impaction. It is imperative to perform clinical evaluation and treatment, including pharmacological (the use of stimulant and osmotic laxatives) and non-pharmacological (education, changes in diet, intervention to promote positive behavior and address any emotional issues, toilet training, and physiotherapy for the pelvic floor) interventions. In the case of refractory patients, neuromodulation, the irrigation of the anal canal, and surgical management may be needed. It is essential to lead a healthy, stress-free lifestyle with plenty of exercise and a balanced diet rich in fiber (such as fruits and vegetables) so children can have regular bowel habits and thrive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kona Chowdhury
- Department of Pediatrics, Gonoshasthaya Samaj Vittik Medical College, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Susmita Sinha
- Department of Physiology, Khulna City Medical College and Hospital, Khulna, BGD
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Periodontology and Implantology, Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, IND
| | - Mainul Haque
- Karnavati Scientific Research Center (KSRC), Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, IND
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, MYS
| | - Rahnuma Ahmad
- Department of Physiology, Medical College for Women and Hospital, Dhaka, BGD
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Verkuijl SJ, Trzpis M, Broens PM. The Prevalence of Bowel and Bladder Function During Early Childhood: A Population-Based Study. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2023; 77:47-54. [PMID: 37098114 PMCID: PMC10259211 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our primary aim was to determine bowel and bladder function in children aged 1 month to 7 years in the general Dutch population. Second, we aimed to identify demographic factors associated with the presence of bowel and bladder dysfunction, and their coexistence. METHODS For this cross-sectional, population-based study, parents/caregivers of children aged from 1 month to 7 years were asked to complete the Early Pediatric Groningen Defecation and Fecal Continence questionnaire. Different parameters of bowel and bladder function were assessed using validated scoring systems such as the Rome IV criteria. RESULTS The mean age of the study population (N = 791) was 3.9 ± 2.2 years. The mean age at which parents/caregivers considered their child fully toilet-trained was 5.1 ± 1.5 years. Prevalence of fecal incontinence among toilet-trained children was 12%. Overall prevalence of constipation was 14%, with a constant probability and severity at all ages. We found significant associations between fecal incontinence and constipation [odds ratio (OR) = 3.88, 95% CI: 2.06-7.30], fecal incontinence and urinary incontinence (OR = 5.26, 95% CI: 2.78-9.98), and constipation and urinary incontinence (OR = 2.06, 95% CI: 1.24-3.42). CONCLUSIONS Even though most children are fully toilet-trained at 5 years, fecal incontinence is common. Constipation appears to be common in infants, toddlers, and older children. Fecal incontinence and constipation frequently coexist and are often accompanied by urinary incontinence. Increased awareness of bowel and bladder dysfunction in infants, toddlers, and young children is required to prevent these problems from continuing at older ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne J. Verkuijl
- From the Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- the Department of Surgery, Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Monika Trzpis
- the Department of Surgery, Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Paul M.A. Broens
- From the Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- the Department of Surgery, Anorectal Physiology Laboratory, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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Tran DL, Sintusek P. Functional constipation in children: What physicians should know. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:1261-1288. [PMID: 36925458 PMCID: PMC10011959 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i8.1261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional constipation (FC) is considered the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder in children with a pooled global prevalence of 14.4% (95% confidence interval: 11.2-17.6) when diagnosed based on the Rome IV criteria. Its pathophysiological mechanisms are thought be multifactorial and complicated, resulting in difficult management. Currently, the most effective medication, when used in parallel with toilet training, is osmotic laxatives. Children’s adherence to medication and parental concern regarding long-term laxative use are the main contributors to treatment failure. Recently, novel therapies with a high safety profile have been developed, such as probiotics, synbiotics, serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor agonists, chloride channel activators, and herbal and transitional medicines; nonetheless, well-designed research to support the use of these therapies is needed. This review aims to focus on multiple aspects of FC in children, including global prevalence, pathogenesis, diagnostic criteria, tools, as well as conventional and novel treatment options, such as non-pharmacological management, including adequate fiber and fluid intake, physiotherapy, or neuromodulators. We also report that in very difficult cases, surgical intervention may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duc Long Tran
- Thailand and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Medicine, Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Can Tho City 9000, Viet Nam
| | - Palittiya Sintusek
- Thai Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Immunology Research Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Thai Red Cross, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Scarpato E, Salvatore S, Romano C, Bruzzese D, Ferrara D, Inferrera R, Zeevenhooven J, Steutel NF, Benninga MA, Staiano A. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study in Italian Infants and Young Children. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2023; 76:e27-e35. [PMID: 36705695 DOI: 10.1097/mpg.0000000000003653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Reports of prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in infants/toddlers are widely variable. Reasons for this variability are not yet fully understood. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of FGIDs according to Rome IV criteria and to evaluate associated factors, in Italian infants and toddlers. METHODS Subjects aged 0-48 months were enrolled by general pediatricians from 3 Italian regions. Parents or legal guardians were administered questionnaires including information about the child, the family, and GI symptoms according to Rome IV criteria. RESULTS Five hundred eight infants aged 0-12 months [mean age 4.4 ± 3.4 months; females (F) 40.9%], and 268 children aged 13-48 months (mean age 30.8 ± 10.7 months; F 44.4%) were included. In infants, prevalence of FGIDs was 21.1%, and the most prevalent FGID was infant colic (9.3%). In toddlers, prevalence of FGIDs was 19.6%, with functional constipation being the most frequent disorder (16.1%). In infants, multivariable analysis found that being older, being the only child, and living in a rural environment were associated with a lower rate of FGIDs. Prevalence was, in contrast, higher in infants fed with formula. CONCLUSIONS One out of 5 Italian infants and young children is affected by at least 1 FGID. The most frequent FGID in infants is infant colic, while in toddlers this is functional constipation. In infants, prevalence of FGIDs is lower if the subject has no siblings, and in children living in a rural environment, while formula feeding represents a risk factor for FGIDs occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Scarpato
- From the Department of Translational Medical Sciences - Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Salvatore
- the Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale "F. Del Ponte", University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Claudio Romano
- the Pediatric Gastroenterology and Cystic Fibrosis Unit, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Dario Bruzzese
- the Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Dante Ferrara
- the Primary Care Pediatrician ASP6, Residency School of Pediatrics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ramona Inferrera
- the Pediatric Gastroenterology and Cystic Fibrosis Unit, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood "G. Barresi", University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Judith Zeevenhooven
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nina F Steutel
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc A Benninga
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annamaria Staiano
- From the Department of Translational Medical Sciences - Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Vernon-Roberts A, Alexander I, Day AS. Systematic Review of Pediatric Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (Rome IV Criteria). J Clin Med 2021; 10:5087. [PMID: 34768604 PMCID: PMC8585107 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10215087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) are common among children and may cause a significant symptom burden. The Rome criteria are symptom-based guidelines for the assessment of FGID among children and adults. The aim of this systematic review was to estimate the prevalence of FGID utilizing the revised Rome IV criteria. Nine health databases were searched. The inclusion criteria were: prospective FGID prevalence data using the Rome IV criteria for children up to 18 years, and the exclusion criteria were: cohorts with known gastrointestinal or organic conditions. The data were presented as a percentage of children experiencing at least one FGID, as well as in individual categories. The searches identified 376 papers, with 20 included in the final analysis, providing a pooled cohort of 18,935 children. The median prevalence of FGID for children aged up to four years was 22.2% (range 5.8-40%), and aged four-eighteen years was 21.8% (range 19-40%). The most common FGID for children aged 0-12 months was infant regurgitation, the most common FGID for those aged 13-48 months were functional constipation and cyclic vomiting, and, for those aged over four years, functional constipation, functional dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome. This reported overall incidence of FGID may be used as a benchmark of normative data among the general population and comparative data for those with comorbid disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angharad Vernon-Roberts
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand; (I.A.); (A.S.D.)
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Nakamura M, Matsumura K, Ohnuma Y, Yoshida T, Tsuchida A, Hamazaki K, Inadera H. Association of cesarean birth with prevalence of functional constipation in toddlers at 3 years of age: results from the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:419. [PMID: 34556067 PMCID: PMC8459474 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02885-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between delivery mode and subsequent development of diseases is a growing area of research. Cesarean delivery affects the diversity of the microbiota in the infant gut, which may be associated with gastrointestinal disorders, including functional constipation, in infants. In this study, we investigated the association between delivery mode and prevalence of functional constipation in 3-year-old Japanese toddlers. METHODS This study used data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study, an ongoing nationwide birth cohort study. We analyzed 71,878 toddler-mother pairs. The presence of functional constipation was determined according to the Rome III diagnostic criteria. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS The prevalence of functional constipation in 3-year-old Japanese toddlers was estimated to be 12.3%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the prevalence of functional constipation was higher in toddlers born by cesarean delivery (13.1%) compared with those born by vaginal delivery (12.1%), independent of 22 confounders (adjusted odds ratios = 1.064, 95% confidence interval = 1.004-1.128). CONCLUSIONS We determined the prevalence of functional constipation in 3-year-old Japanese toddlers and found that delivery mode was associated with the prevalence of functional constipation in Japanese toddlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Nakamura
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Kenta Matsumura
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.,Toyama Regional Center for JECS, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Ohnuma
- Toyama Regional Center for JECS, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan
| | - Taketoshi Yoshida
- Division of Neonatology, Maternal and Perinatal Center, Toyama University Hospital, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Akiko Tsuchida
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.,Toyama Regional Center for JECS, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan
| | - Kei Hamazaki
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.,Toyama Regional Center for JECS, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan.,Department of Public Health, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi City, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Hidekuni Inadera
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan. .,Toyama Regional Center for JECS, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama City, Toyama, 930-8555, Japan.
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