The investigation of fecal retention using objective and patient-friendly tools can be important in the management of overactive bladder (OAB) in children.

A recent study published in Neurourology and Urodynamics aimed to evaluate the incidence and grade of fecal retention in children with OAB and to determine the effectiveness of laxative treatment for fecal retention in the management of OAB in children.

This study enrolled 88 children with OAB, 5-15 years of age. Fecal retention was defined as type 1 or 2 feces, according to the Bristol stool form scale or a Leech score above eight points. Constipation was determined according to the ROME III criteria. Among these pediatric patients, 71 children with fecal retention or constipation were treated with oral laxatives – polyethylene glycol 3,350/4,000 or lactulose, for 2 weeks, and their responses were assessed.

Among the children enrolled, 71.6% had a Leech score above eight points; 59.1% had type 1 or 2 feces (Bristol stool form scale); 27.3% had functional constipation; and 6.8% had neither of the above. Among those who received laxative treatment for 2 weeks, 81.7% reported an improvement in OAB symptoms. Furthermore, the number of children with a Leech score above eight points was significantly higher in the good response group than in the poor response group.

From the results, it was inferred that investigation of fecal retention with the Leech scoring system and laxative treatment might be helpful in the management of OAB in children.