Chronic diarrhea physical examination
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Omodamola Aje B.Sc, M.D. [2]
Overview
Some of the physical findings of chronic diarrhea are orthostatic hypotension, dehydration, neuropathy, muscle wasting, edema, malnutrition, urticaria pigmentosa, dermatographism, pinch purpura, macroglossia, hyperpigmentation, Addison's disease, and migratory necrotizing erythema.
Physical examination
There are several features that can be identified on the physical examination of a patient with chronic diarrhea. These features can help to identify the cause and management of the disease.[1]
Appearance of the patient
- Patient may appears ill, lethargic, or dehydrated depending on the severity of the underlying disease.
Vital Signs
Skin
- Hyperpigmentation seen with Addison's disease
- Dermatitis herpetiformis seen with celiac disease
- Migratory necrotizing erythema seen with glucagonoma
- Flushing seen with carcinoid syndrome
Neck
- Thyroid nodule
- Lymphadenopathy in case of hyperthyroidism
Lungs
Heart
Abdomen
Genitourinary
- Anal sphincter weakness
Extremities
- Lid lag seen with hyperthyroidism
Neuromuscular
References
- ↑ Schiller, Lawrence R. (2012). "Definitions, pathophysiology, and evaluation of chronic diarrhoea". Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology. 26 (5): 551–562. doi:10.1016/j.bpg.2012.11.011. ISSN 1521-6918.