Intestinal obstruction syndromes in cystic fibrosis: meconium ileus, distal intestinal obstruction syndrome, and constipation

H.P.J. van der Doef, F.T.M. Kokke, C.K. van der Ent, R.H.J. Houwen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Meconium ileus at birth, distal intestinal obstruction syndrome (DIOS), and constipation are an interrelated group of intestinal obstruction syndromes with a variable severity of obstruction that occurs in cystic fibrosis patients. Long-term follow-up studies show that today meconium ileus is not a risk factor for impaired nutritional status, pulmonary function, or survival. DIOS and constipation are frequently seen in cystic fibrosis patients, especially later in life; genetic, dietary, and other associations have been explored. Diagnosis of DIOS is based on suggestive symptoms, with a right lower quadrant mass confirmed on abdominal radiography, whereas symptoms of constipation are milder and of longer standing. In DIOS, early aggressive laxative treatment with oral laxatives (polyethylene glycol) or intestinal lavage with balanced osmotic electrolyte solution and rehydration is required, which now makes the need for surgical interventions rare. Constipation can generally be well controlled with polyethylene glycol maintenance treatment.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)265-270
Number of pages6
JournalCurrent Gastroenterology Reports
Volume13
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2011

Keywords

  • Constipation
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Humans
  • Ileus
  • Intestinal Obstruction
  • Meconium
  • Risk Factors
  • Journal Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Intestinal obstruction syndromes in cystic fibrosis: meconium ileus, distal intestinal obstruction syndrome, and constipation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this