Gastroenterology Constipation in pediatrics

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal disorder in children, with a global prevalence of ۱۴.۴% based on Rome IV criteria. The prevalence of constipation in Iranian children varies across studies, but it's generally considered high. Studies report prevalence rates ranging from ۱۵.۶۴% to ۴۳%. Constipation in children is usually functional constipation without an organic cause. Organic causes of constipation in children, which include Hirschsprung disease, cystic fibrosis, and spinal cord abnormalities, hypothyroidism, electrolyte imbalance (hypercalcemia, hypokalemia), food allergy commonly present with red flag signs and symptoms. History and physical examination can diagnose functional constipation using the Rome IV diagnostic criteria.