Disorders of infant feeding - Symptoms, Causes, Images, and Treatment Options

Diseases

Highlights & Basics

Key Highlights

Feeding disorders are common in infants and, if the underlying cause is not addressed, may persist into childhood.
Etiologies are usually multifactorial, and are best managed by a multidisciplinary team. Causes include prematurity; anatomic abnormalities; neuromuscular/neurodevelopmental conditions; gastrointestinal, genetic, cardiac, or respiratory conditions; and behavioral factors.
Diagnosis is usually clinical, with a consistent history supported by dietetic assessment. Complementary diagnostic tests and subsequent management are guided by physical findings and severity of symptoms.
Feeding disorders are usually subacute to chronic in nature. A sudden change in feeding habit may be associated with other conditions, notably infections, which need to be excluded.

H-type tracheoesophageal fistula. CXR/tubogram demonstrating dispersion of radiopaque dye into the lung field when injected into NG tube positioned in esophagus. Dye is also noted in stomach

From the collection of Dr Stephanie Gill

Quick Reference

History & Exam
- Key Factors
- Other Factors
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Diagnostics Tests
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Treatment Options
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Definition

Epidemiology

Etiology

Pathophysiology

Images

H-type tracheoesophageal fistula. CXR/tubogram demonstrating dispersion of radiopaque dye into the lung field when injected into NG tube positioned in esophagus. Dye is also noted in stomach
Immediate management of gastroschisis (congenital fissure of the abdominal wall): bowel loop contained within a preformed silo bag. Despite early surgical correction, these babies have a high risk of dysmotility and feeding problems
An infant with Pierre Robin sequence
Infant with tongue-tie (ankyloglossia)

Citations

Key Articles

Rommel N, De Meyer AM, Feenstra L, et al. The complexity of feeding problems in 700 infants and young children presenting to a tertiary care institution. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2003 Jul;37(1):75-84.[Abstract]
Arvedson JC. Assessment of pediatric dysphagia and feeding disorders: clinical and instrumental approaches. Dev Disabil Res Rev. 2008;14(2):118-27.[Abstract]
Delaney AL, Arvedson JC. Development of swallowing and feeding: prenatal through first year of life. Dev Disabil Res Rev. 2008;14(2):105-17.[Abstract]

Other Online Resources

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: feeding and swallowing disorders in children

Referenced Articles

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