Increased Prevalence of Sensory Processing Issues in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Patient Population

BACKGROUND: Sensory processing dysfunction in children has been linked to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, feeding disorders, and functional abdominal pain. However, little is known about sensory processing in the broader pediatric gastroenterology population. OBJECTIVE: To characterize frequency and type of sensory processing dysfunction seen in pediatric gastroenterology compared to a general pediatric population. METHODS: The Short Sensory Profile 2 was administered to the parents of children ranging 3–14 years, being seen in a pediatric gastrointestinal (GI) subspecialty clinic or general pediatric clinic. Short Sensory Profile 2 scores from age- and gender-matched groups were compared with nonparametric statistics. RESULTS: Sensory processing dysfunction was increased in children seen in the GI clinic compared to children in the general pediatric clinic. Short Sensory Profile 2 quadrant analysis revealed greatest differences in avoiding, primarily in young females of the GI population. CONCLUSION: Children presenting to a pediatric GI clinic demonstrate greater sensory processing dysfunction compared to children in a general pediatric practice.