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.