Symptoms of pediatric feeding disorders among individuals with 3q29 deletion syndrome

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate symptoms of pediatric feeding disorders in a sample of individuals with 3q29 Deletion Syndrome. Previous research has found that individuals with 3q29 deletion syndrome (3q29Del) may experience elevated feeding concerns in early childhood; however, the specificity of these feeding concerns in this pediatric population is not well understood. MethodsWe compared individuals with 3q29Del (n = 60) to matched controls (n = 59) using an 11-item survey that assessed commonly reported symptoms associated with pediatric feeding disorders. An exploratory analysis also examined individuals with 3q29Del with and without a comorbid autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis. ResultsCaregivers of 3q29Del cases reported higher incidences of feeding concerns on all 11 items included in the survey. This included statistically significant differences in food refusal behaviors, rejection of one or more food group, and a history of failure to thrive. Parents of children with comorbid autism were more likely to report concerns regarding rejection of one or more food group compared to children with 3q29Del without autism. ConclusionsResults suggest individuals with 3q29Del experience increased symptoms of pediatric feeding disorders. Future research should include a more thorough multidisciplinary evaluation to further document the severity and identify optimal remediation strategies.