Colonoscopy as a Diagnostic method in Paediatric Lower Gastrointestinal Diseases
Nadira Musabbir *
Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Fahmida Begum
Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Md. Wahiduzzaman Mazumder
Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To observe the indications, findings and effectiveness of colonoscopy in paediatric patients having gastrointestinal symptoms.
Study Design: Retrospective study
Place and duration of study: Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Bangabandhu sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, between January, 2022 and December, 2022.
Methodology: We included 105 patients, aged ≤ 16 years, who had their first colonoscopy and their demographic data, indications and extent of colonoscopy, abnormal colonoscopy findings, definite diagnosis and complications following the procedure were recorded.
Results: Out of 105 patients, 57.1% were in 5-10 year age group with 61% male and 39% female. The most common indication for colonoscopy was lower GI bleeding (64.76%) followed by chronic diarrhea (15.23%) and chronic abdominal pain (10.48%). Colo-rectal polyp was most frequently diagnosed (34.28%) followed by IBD (17.14%) and intestinal tuberculosis (12.38%). The diagnostic yield of colonoscopy for chronic diarrhoea was 87.5 %, hematochezia 82.36 %, and chronic abdominal pain 72.72 %. Ileal intubation was done in 26.67% cases. Only one patient developed procedure related complication.
Conclusion: Paediatric colonoscopy is useful diagnostic tool for evaluating hematochezia, chronic diarrhoea or chronic abdominal pain in children.
Keywords: Colonoscopy, children, diagnostic yield