Bleeding per rectum in children is an infrequent presentation associated with a wide range of differential diagnoses, from benign to life-threatening. Irrespective of the underlying aetiology, it is typically a worrisome symptom for caregivers. Published data are limited, particularly for the UK population, from which to provide clear evidence-based guidance for assessment and management of infants, children and young people presenting with bleeding per rectum. In this Fifteen-Minute Consultation, we therefore explore the common aetiologies and combine opinions from acute paediatrics, paediatric gastroenterology and paediatric surgery to offer a structure for a diagnostic approach and initial management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in infants, children and young people.
Measurement of cerebrospinal fluid pressure through lumbar puncture (LP) manometry is an essential practical skill all paediatricians should possess competency in. The ability to perform manometry is crucial in the diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension and can provide critical information on raised (or lowered) intracranial pressure in other clinical scenarios. Practitioners should be familiar with the procedure and in particular with equipment available to them locally. In this article, we will describe an approach to LP manometry. The online supplemental material includes an instructional video as well as supporting practical information.
Constipation is common in childhood. It is a frequent presentation to primary care and common reason for referral to secondary and tertiary care. In the majority of cases, childhood constipation is idiopathic, with no significant underlying cause, but still presents a significant issue to patients, families and healthcare providers. We consider a case of idiopathic constipation, review the current evidence base for investigations and treatment and suggest practical management strategies.
Vomiting and diarrhoea is a common presenting complaint in paediatrics. Most often it is due to a benign and self-limiting infectious illness. Here, we explore the diagnostic journey of a 7-month-old infant with these symptoms presenting in a secondary care hospital and the overnight clinical problem solving involved in tackling the unexpected complexities.
This paper sets out the use and benefits of adopting a coaching style of conversation within our everyday practice. Here, we present two case examples within a paediatric setting which applies coaching skills to different contexts to help progress meaningful conversations.