Abstract
Objective:
Posttraumatic feeding disorder (PTFD) is characterized by food refusal after traumatic events to oropharynx and/or esophagus (e.g., choking, vomiting, severe gagging, force-feeding, reflux and insertion of nasogastric or endotreacheal tubes). In this article, we reviewed studies on PTFD which is believed to be common in infants.
Method:
Studies onfeeding disorders of infancy and early childhood and PTFD were retrieved, and data about the definition, classification, diagnostic criteria, etiology, clinical features, differential diagnosis and treatment were evaluated.
Results:
Only a few children who experienced traumatic events develop feeding problems. This may be due to their increased sensitivity, anxiety andfear before the traumatic experience. Behavioral approaches including extinction and gradual desensitization seem to be effective in treatment of PTFD.
Discussion:
Further studies are needed to explore the temperamental characteristics, physiological reactivity, and comorbidity with anxiety disorders to better understand the phenomenon of PTFD. Early diagnosis and treatment in a multidisciplinary approach will improve the quality of life, and physiologic, psychological and health problems experienced by infants and their parents.
Keywords: child, feeding disorder, food refusal, infant, posttraumatic feeding disorder
