Chemotherapy-induced constipation among children: An observational study

Objectives Chemotherapy-induced constipation [CIC] is a common and underreported morbidity among children. There is a lack of consensus about its reporting and management. Material and Methods A prospective observational study was conducted on children receiving chemotherapy for various malignancies. Exclusion was made for preexisting gastrointestinal disorders, children in intensive care, or in an altered sensorium. Constipation assessment and Bristol stool form scales were used to assess the incidence of CIC. Result A total of 90 children were observed and CIC was reported by 41 (45.5%) cases as self-declared as well as on the constipation assessment scale. On the Bristol stool form scale, 47 (52.3%) cases had some grade of CIC. CIC was associated with vincristine, cytarabine, and L-asparaginase chemotherapy schedules. Oral laxatives were the most common remedy used and only 11 cases required rectal enema. Despite interval admission noted among 12 cases and chemotherapy schedule modification among 22 cases, the impact of CIC on the quality of life was expressed by 26.6 % of caregivers only. Conclusion CIC is a common morbidity and it needs more active surveillance.