Chronic diarrhea history and symptoms

Chronic diarrhea Microchapters
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Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Chronic diarrhea from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
Chest X Ray
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Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Omodamola Aje B.Sc, M.D. [2]

Overview

There are no criteria for the diagnosis of chronic diarrhea. However, in order to make an accurate diagnosis, it is important to be able to take a detailed history, physical exam and mostly from expert opinion and from experience in individual clinical centers. The use of these methods are subject to bias however, a specific diagnosis can be achieved in more than 90% of patients.

Diagnostic criteria

• History
  • Age
  • Duration, onset
  • Food
  • Family history
  • Pattern
  • Timing
  • Travel

• Physical examination
  • General
  • Eye
  • Skin
  • Abdomen
  • Anorectal

• Laboratory tests
  • Blood (Albumin and thyroid stimulating hormone levels, complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, liver function testing
  • Stool ( Bacteria, blood, fat, leukocytes, ova and parasite, pH tests, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium antigen test)
  • Celiac panel
  • Clostridium difficle toxin ( if indicated)
  • Laxative screen ( if indicated)

• Procedure
  • Anoscopy
  • Sigmoidoscopy
  • Colonoscopy and biopsy

References

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