FUNCTIONAL NONRETENTIVE FECAL SOILING AND STRESSFUL LIFE EVENTS

Abstract

Introduction: Functional non-retentive fecal soiling (FNRFS), or encopresis without constipation, is a common problem in pediatric age. FNRFS is associated with high levels of distress for both children and parents and with emotional disorders in about 30%-50% of affected children. This study aimed to evaluate stressors on a sample of children with FNRFS comparing to a group of typical devolpment children (TDC). Methods:154 subjects participated in the study: 56 FNRFS children (37 males; mean age 10.87 years ± 1.68); 98 TDC (65 males; mean age 11.3 years ± 1.85). All participants were evaluated for the presence of stressful events (LCU) using the Coddington Life Events Scales (CLES). Results: Both groups were similar for age (p = 0.155), and gender (p = 0.885). Children with FNRFS do not show a significant difference in the prevalence of stressful events than the control group (35.85% vs. 30.83%; CI95% -9.9363% to 20.5490%; Chi-square = 0.402; p = 0, 0.5258). Conclusions: These data suggest that FNRFS is a condition independent of stress factors. In fact, it itself represents a stress factor that can negatively influence the correct psychological and neuropsychological development in children.