Chronic diarrheahistorical perspective
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Omodamola Aje B.Sc, M.D. [2]
Overview
Historical Perspective
The word diarrhea derived from the Greek term "to flow through," is a common manifestation of gastrointestinal disease. Its definition has traditionally been based upon the frequency, volume, and consistency of stools. As a result of various inconsistencies in definition, the American Gastroenterological Association suggests that chronic diarrhea should be defined as a decrease in fecal consistency lasting for four or more weeks.