Paediatric Gastroenterology

Paediatric gastroenterology is a specialist field that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of diseases of the digestive system, liver, pancreas and bile ducts in children, from newborns through to adolescence. The most common conditions encountered in paediatric gastroenterology departments include reflux, coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, constipation, lactose intolerance and functional abdominal pain.

The diagnostic process involves blood tests, endoscopic procedures and imaging techniques, whilst treatment is carried out through dietary adjustments, medication and, where necessary, surgical interventions. The primary objective of this department is to ensure children’s healthy growth and to improve their quality of life.

References:

• World Health Organization. Child and Adolescent Health – Digestive System Diseases Resources.

• Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. Elsevier.

• Turkish Paediatric Society. Clinical guidelines and informational publications on paediatric gastroenterology.