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Examination in child with constipation

Authoring team

Use table below to establish a positive diagnosis of idiopathic constipation by excluding underlying causes. If a child or young person has any 'red flag' symptoms do not treat them for constipation. Instead, refer them urgently to a healthcare professional with experience in the specific aspect of child health that is causing concern

Key components

Findings and diagnostic clues that indicate idiopathic constipation

'Red flag' findings and diagnostic clues that indicate an underlying disorder or condition: not idiopathic constipation

Inspection of perianal area: appearance, position, patency, etc

  • normal appearance of anus and surrounding area
  • abnormal appearance/position/patency of anus: fistulae, bruising, multiple fissures, tight or patulous anus, anteriorly placed anus, absent anal wink

Abdominal examination

  • soft abdomen. Flat or distension that can be explained because of age or excess weight
  • gross abdominal distension

Spine/lumbosacral region/gluteal examination

  • normal appearance of the skin and anatomical structures of lumbosacral/gluteal regions
  • abnormal: asymmetry or flattening of the gluteal muscles, evidence of sacral agenesis, discoloured skin, naevi or sinus, hairy patch, lipoma, central pit (dimple that you can't see the bottom of), scoliosis

Lower limb neuromuscular examination including tone and strength

  • normal gait. Normal tone and strength in lower limbs
  • deformity in lower limbs such as talipes
  • abnormal neuromuscular signs unexplained by any existing condition, such as cerebral palsy

Lower limb neuromuscular examination: reflexes (perform only if 'red flags' in history or physical examination suggest new onset neurological impairment)

  • reflexes present and of normal amplitude
  • abnormal reflexes

If the history-taking and/or physical examination show evidence of faltering growth treat for constipation and test for coeliac disease and hypothyroidism

Reference:

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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