Adolescents with anorectal malformation: physical outcome, sexual health and quality of life.

BACKGROUND

The necessity of referring adolescents with anorectal malformation (ARM) from pediatric units to adult care is unclear. The issue requires knowledge about the health of the adolescent.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the physical outcome, sexual health and quality of life (QoL) in adolescents with ARM.

METHODS

At medical counseling, 24 adolescents with ARM, 15-21 years of age, answered questionnaires about physical outcome according to the Krickenbeck follow-up and QoL according to SF 36 and gastrointestinal quality of life (Giqli). Matched control groups were used; 15 adolescents participated in deep interviews about sexual health and body imaging.

RESULTS

Fecal soiling, constipation and gas incontinence were much higher for ARM patients compared with controls (p<0.05). QoL regarding large bowel function was lower for both genders compared with controls (p<0.05). Females scored lower in physically related QoL (p<0.05). Social and sexual adaption to the symptoms was obvious in the deep interviews.

CONCLUSION

Adolescents with ARM have considerable intestinal symptoms, which influence QoL and require adaption in intimate situations. A referral to adult care seems to be important, and continuous cooperation between the pediatric surgeon and adult care is suggested.