gastroparesis
Pronunciation: gas-troe-pah-REE-sis
Delayed gastric emptying without mechanical obstruction, causing chronic digestive symptoms.
Full Definition
Gastroparesis is a chronic motility disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying in the absence of mechanical obstruction. In pediatric patients, the condition can be idiopathic, post-viral, or associated with underlying conditions such as diabetes mellitus, mitochondrial disorders, or previous surgery. Children with gastroparesis typically present with chronic nausea, vomiting, early satiety, abdominal pain, and poor weight gain. Diagnosis is confirmed through gastric emptying studies, which demonstrate prolonged retention of solid foods. Management involves dietary modifications, prokinetic medications, and in severe cases, surgical interventions such as gastrostomy tube placement or pyloric interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from mechanical obstruction; specify underlying etiology when known.
In Context
- "The gastric emptying study confirmed gastroparesis with 85% retention at four hours." — Nuclear medicine report
- "Dietary modification to frequent small meals helped manage the gastroparesis symptoms." — Nutritionist consultation