Ped GI Disorders

GI Anatomy Overview: Mouth

infants use mouth to explore which can lead to infection

GI Components: Esophagus

shorter, meaning they often have acid reflux

GI Components: Stomach

smaller than adult

newborns can hold 10mL, by 1yr they can hold 200ml

important to not overfeed

GI Components: Intestines

peristalsis is faster

more water loss if they have diarrhea

GI Components

liver, gallbladder

Pedi Differences

smaller stomach

faster peristalsis

immature liver ~1yr (limited glycogen, takes longer for glucose to increase if hypoglycemic)

Diagnostic tests

abd ultrasound

Endoscopy/colonoscopy

Stool studies: culture, O&P, Hem-occult

Blood Tests: amylase, lipase, LFTs

HIDA scan for biliary function (gallbladder/pancreas)

Stool Collection Tips

Infants: wrap in diaper or use urine bag

Ambulatory: collect in clean container, avoid urine

Bedridden: use bedpan

Never mix stool w/urine; can change results

document amount, color, etc.