

Others have been unable to confirm the association. 7, 8 The implication is that some constipated patients may have a genetic basis for their condition. Further work has suggested an association with chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction.

3, 4 Two studies have linked early onset constipation with an abnormal frequency of simple arches, 5, 6 with early onset being described as under 10 years old and within the first few months of life respectively. 2 It would be valuable to predict these non-responders early.įingerprint patterns are genetically determined and conditions such as trisomy 18 or 21 are associated with unusual dermatoglyphics. Arch positivity did not identify children with prolonged transit times, nor those who required colectomy.Ĭonclusions: Fingerprint patterns are not associated with severe childhood constipation, do not aid their management, and do not support a genetic aetiology for this problem.Ĭonstipation is common in children, 1 and though most cases respond to dietary manipulation and laxatives, some have constipation and soiling into adulthood.

Arch positivity was commoner among relatives of arch positive (6/6) than arch negative children (14/54), regardless of bowel history. Results: At least one simple arch was found in similar numbers of constipated children (13%) and their families (16%), and control children (7%) and their families (13%). Colonic transit times and clinical outcomes were also evaluated among constipated children. Methods: Fingerprints were classified by two blinded assessors in 30 children requiring surgery for refractory constipation, and 30 children with appendicitis, and the first degree relatives of both groups. If real, this association might be useful to predict which children have a poor prognosis.Īim: To see how many severely constipated children have simple arches, compared to non-constipated controls and their first degree relatives. Background: It has been suggested that there is an association between simple arch fingerprint patterns and severe childhood constipation.
