Gut Abnormalities in Children with Functional Abdominal Pain and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Children with FAP/IBS have increased GI permeability and inflammation.

Functional abdominal pain (FAP) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have elusive pathophysiology and are frustrating problems in children. In a multicenter study, investigators examined gastrointestinal (GI) permeability (measured by recovery of various sugars) and GI inflammation (measured by fecal calprotectin concentration) in 109 children aged 7 to 10 years with FAP/IBS diagnosed using standardized (Rome II) criteria.

Compared with a control group of healthy children without GI complaints, children with FAP/IBS had greater proximal small bowel and colonic permeability. Total small intestinal permeability did not differ between groups. Mean fecal calprotectin concentration was significantly higher in patients with FAP/IBS than in controls.…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)