title: Manometric assessment of idiopathic megarectum in constipated children.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Chronic constipation is a frequent finding in children. In this age range, the concomitant occurrence of megarectum is not uncommon. However, the definition of megarectum is variable, and a few data exist for Italy. We studied anorectal manometric variables and sensation in a group of constipated children with megarectum defined by radiologic criteria. Data from this group were compared with those obtained in a similar group of children with recurrent abdominal pain.
  
  
  METHODS
  Anorectal testing was carried out in both groups by standard manometric technique and rectal balloon expulsion test.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Megarectum patients displayed discrete abnormalities of anorectal variables and sensation with respect to controls. In particular, the pelvic floor function appeared to be impaired in most patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Constipated children with megarectum have abnormal anorectal function and sensation. These findings may be helpful for a better understanding of the pathophysiological basis of this condition.
authors.affiliation: Clinica di Gastroenterologia ed Epatologia Via Enrico Dal Pozzo, Padiglione W, Perugia 06100, Italy.
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Chiarioni
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: de Roberto
authors.forename: Alessandro
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mazzocchi
authors.forename: Antonio
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Morelli
authors.forename: Gabrio
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Bassotti
mesh_terms: D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002648:Child; D003248:Constipation / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008365:Manometry; D012007:Rectum / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D012677:Sensation