Faecal incontinence: Retentive, non‐retentive and when to suspect organic pathology

Abstract

SummaryBackgroundFaecal incontinence is a highly prevalent and very distressing condition that occurs throughout the entire paediatric age.AimTo summarise advances in the understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, evaluation and treatment of children with faecal incontinence due to either disorders of gut–brain interaction or organic diseases.MethodsLiterature review on prevalence, impact, diagnosis and treatment options for children with faecal incontinence, interspersed with observations from the author's lifelong career focused on evaluation of children with motility disorders.ResultsFaecal incontinence in children is most commonly due to unrecognised or insufficiently treated functional constipation with overflow incontinence. Non‐retentive faecal incontinence (NRFI) is probably more common than previously thought and is particularly challenging to treat. Organic diseases such as anorectal malformations (ARMs), Hirschsprung disease and spinal defects are often associated with faecal incontinence; in these conditions, faecal incontinence has a profound impact on quality of life. Recognition of the different pathophysiologic mechanisms causing the incontinence is essential for a successful treatment plan. A thorough physical examination and history is all that is needed in the diagnosis of the causes of faecal incontinence related to disorders of gut–brain interaction. Colonic transit studies or x‐rays may help to differentiate retentive from NRFI. Manometry tests are helpful in determining the mechanisms underlying the incontinence in children operated on for ARMs or Hirschsprung diseases. Multiple behavioural, medical and surgical interventions are available to lessen the severity of faecal incontinence and its impact on the daily life of affected individuals.ConclusionsRecent advances offer hope for children with faecal incontinence.