Delayed Gastric Emptying in Functional Dyspepsia: A Study on Prevalence, Etiological Factors, and Clinical Implications in Adults at BSMMU

Abstract

Background: Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) significantly contributes to functional dyspepsia (FD), a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder affecting quality of life and increasing healthcare burdens globally. Objective: To investigate the prevalence, etiological factors, and clinical implications of DGE in functional dyspepsia among adults at BSMMU, Dhaka. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2022 in the Department of Gastroenterology, BSMMU. Thirty-five dyspeptic patients underwent detailed clinical evaluations, laboratory testing, upper GI endoscopy, and gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES). Data analysis included descriptive statistics and inferential testing. Results: The mean age of patients was 43.7 ± 8.5 years, with 51.4% aged between 41-50 years. DGE was identified in 42.9% of participants. Common symptoms included postprandial fullness (85.7%) and early satiety (77.1%). Etiological analysis revealed Helicobacter pylori infection in 48.6% of cases, while 34.3% exhibited significant psychological stress. Gastric emptying times showed a mean delay of 23.5 ± 4.2 minutes in affected patients. Additionally, females were disproportionately affected, comprising 62.9% of the DGE subgroup. Symptom severity and quality of life scores correlated significantly with gastric emptying rates (p<0.05). Conclusions: DGE is a prevalent finding in functional dyspepsia at BSMMU, with significant implications for symptom burden and quality of life. Early identification and targeted management strategies are essential to improve outcomes.