Pediatric Functional Constipation in Clinical Practice: The Continuous Search for the Light at the End of the Tunnel

Abstract

Functional constipation (FC) has a pooled world prevalence of 9.5%, a clear definition by Rome IV Criteria, and the NAPGHAN/ESPGHAN guidelines recommendation for management. With well-defined parameters, this commentary discusses the paths followed by the literature to implement different therapeutic modalities over time. The text will prioritize information based on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or reviews. Recently, an Editorial exploring gastrointestinal diseases across the Lifespan linked constipation as a “vexing issue that, unfortunately, has the potential to impair Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL).” Indeed, The Rome Foundation recommended that HRQOL scores may assist in diagnosis, management, prognosis, and therapeutic decisions. Therefore, it can be helpful for clinicians, psychologists, and researchers and could be used to support health services that want to implement an HRQOL program. The final idea is to propose HRQOL as a secondary outcome for Pediatric FC monitoring this disorder.