Abstract
The purpose of this literature review is to address the diagnosis and treatment of upper gastrointestinal (GI) disorders in patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Manifestations of upper GI dysmotility and disorders include dysphagia, pulmonary aspiration, malnutrition, gastroesophageal reflux, and gastritis, all of which can impact a person’s quality of life and lead to chronic, life-threatening conditions. This article will explore the existing diagnostic methods and treatments for gastrointestinal disorders as they relate to patients with IDD.
Highlights
Backgroundintellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills
IDD is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills
Dysmotility of the upper gastrointestinal tract represents a severe constellation of symptoms resulting from malfunction of the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine [3]
Summary
IDD is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. Chronic upper gastrointestinal (UGI) dysmotility problems for patients with IDD include dysphagia (60%), pulmonary aspiration (41%), malnutrition (33%), gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) (32%), and gastritis (32%). In the assessment of dysphagia and chronic aspiration, a barium swallow or a modified barium swallow study should be performed to further elucidate the cause This is preferable to invasive testing such as upper endoscopy, which can have an increased risk if the patient is not fully cooperative. If utilizing diet modifications is impractical or unsuccessful, such as in patients with extremely severe oropharyngeal dysphagia, using a gastrostomy or jejunostomy tube may be practical This provides the benefit of delivering adequate amounts of nutrition to patients while potentially decreasing aspiration risk. Chronic use warrants consideration of drug-drug interactions and electrolyte imbalances and should only be considered in patients with clear indications for their use
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