title: [Value of rectal sensitivity test in chronic childhood constipation].
abstract: The rectal sensitivity test evaluates the distension volume for which the initial transient sensation occurs on defecation (conscious rectal sensitivity threshold). The conscious rectal sensitivity threshold (S.S.R.C.) was performed on 10 normal controlled subjects and 103 children with chronic constipation, functional megarectum and normal rectoanal inhibitory reflex. Children were between 5 and 14 years old. S.S.R.C. was increased in children with chronic constipation. Encopresis was proportionally increased with relation to S.S.R.C. increase. A therapeutical protocol was applied in all patients. Fifteen patients are still being treated: 87 obtained a normal function within 8 to 23 months of treatment; in one case the treatment was unsuccessful. The period of treatment was proportional to S.S.R.C. increase. Physiopathological background of a correct management is discussed.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001003:Anal Canal / Q000294:innervation; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003248:Constipation / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D003672:Defecation; D004688:Encopresis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008365:Manometry; D009434:Neural Pathways; D012007:Rectum / Q000294:innervation / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012684:Sensory Thresholds
vernacular_title: Valore del test di sensitività rettale nelle stipsi croniche in età pediatrica.