University of Miami Division of Clinical Pharmacology therapeutic rounds: update on diagnosis and treatment of gastroparesis

Gastroparesis, defined as delayed gastric emptying because of abnormal gastric motility in the absence of mechanical outlet obstruction, is a common problem causing significant morbidity. Although many cases are caused by diabetes, more than 90 different conditions are known to interfere with normal gastric motor function (Scand J Gastroenterol 1995;30[suppl]:7-16). Patients may present with nausea, vomiting, heartburn, early satiety, or postprandial pain. The current gold standard for quantifying gastric emptying is nuclear scintigraphy. The main goal of treatment is to improve patient comfort by accelerating the rate of gastric emptying, which may be achieved through dietary changes and the use of prokinetic agents. In rare instances, relief can only be obtained with surgical intervention. This report reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment of patients with gastroparesis, an understanding of which will lead to more effective patient care.