Constipation is a common problem in children worldwide. In this article we present a practical guide to the diagnostics and management of paediatric constipation. The efficacy of various therapeutic methods including diet, laxatives and probiotics are discussed.

Coeliac disease is an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by the exposure to dietary gluten. The disease affects 1 in 160 of the general population. The majority of cases remain undiagnosed. The paper presents a proposition of the new classification of gluten-related disorders and the revised nomenclature of different forms of coeliac disease (‘the Oslo definitions’). The author focuses on current knowledge of non-classical signs and conditions associated with the disease.

The colonization of the infant gastrointestinal tract influences the development and function of multiple organs and systems, including immunity and nervous system. Child’s intestinal microbiota is not as stable as in adults and depends on several environmental factors, like pregnancy, delivery, nutritionor antimicrobial therapy. Specific aberrations in intestinal microbiota composition in early life may contribute to necrotizing colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease or obesity. The use of probiotics plays a role in prevention of these diseases and may have beneficial impact for the development and overall health of the child. This article presents selected aspects of development of gut microbiota, its impact on immunity and neurodevelopment, and use of probiotics.

This paper contains the most important information concerning the activation of the immune system of the neonate and disturbances of this process inthe case of delivery by caesarean section.