RESUMO
Constipation is a common problem encountered in the pediatric setting. For many children, constipation is functional in nature-potentially stemming from a pattern of stool output that is infrequent or not fully productive (ie, incomplete stool evacuation)-and includes behavioral concerns like stool withholding. In many cases of functional constipation (FC), the pattern may have started in the toddler years during or before toilet training and may now be well established. Additional factors often include inadequate fluids and fiber, or excess dietary dairy or carbohydrates. In a small percentage of cases, constipation is a symptom of an underlying organic disease process. Laboratory tests and imaging may be helpful in determining most organic concerns. In the absence of an organic process, FC can be treated by properly educating families about the nature of FC as well as careful attention to dietary fiber and fluid intake, use of stool softeners, laxatives, and behavioral modifications. [Pediatr Ann. 2021;50(8):e320-e324.].
