Integration of Biomedical and Psychosocial Treatments in Pediatrics Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Abstract

Pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are disorders of the brain-gut axis. Pathophysiological factors include alterations in gut motility, microbiota, immune system, central nervous system, and psychosocial factors. Given the complex pathophysiology of FGIDs, many patients are in need of integrative treatment approaches that may include a combination of biomedical, nutritional, and psychological approaches. In this article, we examine goals of treatment; give a brief overview of biomedical, nutritional, and psychological approaches; and finally discuss the integrative management of pediatric FGIDs.

Keywords: Biopsychosocial model; Cognitive behavioral treatment; Functional abdominal pain; Functional constipation; Functional gastrointestinal disorders; Irritable bowel syndrome; Pediatrics; Psychological treatments.