Growth and dietary effects on gastrointestinal symptoms in children with Hirschsprung's disease.

Abstract

Purpose: Growth and diet are major concerns for patients with Hirschsprung's disease yet are rarely described. This study aimed to investigate self-reported growth and the dietary impact on gastrointestinal symptoms in children with Hirschsprung's disease.

Methods: This observational cross-sectional study used a validated self-report questionnaire. All children aged 1-18 years old (n = 85) with Hirschsprung's disease treated at a national center were invited to participate.

Results: In total, 71 children (84%) participated (median age 6 years [range 1-17]). Stunting was reported in 6 of 71 children (9%), with no significant difference between those with rectosigmoid and long-segment aganglionosis (4/58 [7%] vs. 2/13 [15%], p = 0.328). The majority (55/71; 77%) reported diet-induced gastrointestinal symptoms, again with no significant difference between the groups (43/58 [74%] vs. 12/13 [92%] p = 0.227). Of the 90 food items assessed, the most frequently reported to trigger symptoms were high in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs), free sugar and fat.

Conclusion: Diet-related gastrointestinal complaints are reported frequently in children with Hirschsprung's disease, regardless of aganglionic extent. The findings highlight the need to assess growth and dietary factors in follow-up care and support further interventional studies on dietary strategies.