Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine patient-reported burdensome experiences and research interests in children with acute recurrent pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis and their families. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Children with pancreatitis and their families completed a web-based survey. Subject prioritized rankings of symptoms or quality of life issues and topics for future research were assessed. Data are presented as family and children scores. RESULTS: Among 80 participants, 18 were children with pancreatitis and 62 were family members. Top 5 ranked symptoms or quality of life issues were as follows: 1) pain, 2) fatigue, 3) missing school, 4) upset stomach, and 5) not knowing when an attack will occur. Top 5 ranked future research topics were as follows: 1) how to prevent a pancreatitis attack, 2) how pancreatitis affects other parts of the body, 3) ways to treat or handle pain, 4) what is the cause of pancreatitis, and 5) teach doctors about pancreatitis. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the importance of patient and family input in caring for children with pancreatitis. The most bothersome symptoms were pain, fatigue, and upset stomach. Children with pancreatitis and families would like future research to primarily focus on prevention of pancreatitis attacks, pain therapy, and complications of pancreatitis.