Pediatric Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Management

Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs), also recently referred to as disorders of gut-brain interaction, are common in the pediatric population and vary according to age groups, i.e., neonatal/toddler and child/adolescent FGIDs. Pediatric FGIDs tend to evolve and persist into adulthood, contributing to financial burdens and psychological problems. Despite several decades of progress and advancements in molecular biology and medical sciences, the exact pathophysiology remains unknown, although genetic, psychosocial, gut dysbiosis, visceral hypersensitivity, and neuroimmune causes have been implicated. The ROME IV criteria facilitate easier and earlier diagnosis of FGIDs, excluding organic causes while minimizing unnecessary investigations. Dietary, psychosocial, neuro-stimulatory, and pharmacological management methods exist, although fewer trials have focused on pediatric drug-based management. Early identification and appropriate treatment hold the potential for cure and improvement in quality of life.