Abstract

FRAGOSO ARBELO, Trini et al. Some physiopathological aspects of prevention and treatment of constipation in childhood. Rev Cubana Med Gen Integr [online]. 2004, vol.20, n.5-6, pp. 0-0. ISSN 1561-3038.

The topic of constipation in the child, including the definition of constipation, encopresis and fecal incontinence, is reviewed. Some physiopathological aspects, as well as the most frequent causes, clinical evaluation, indications of special tests and some aspects of treatments with diets, laxatives and training are dealt with. The clinicoepidemiological results in 115 outpatients treated by a multidisciplinary team at a specialized office are shown. It is concluded that constipation is a common disease in chldhood with a high prevalence in children under 5, among whom the bad habits in defecation and nutrition predominate. In the child under one year old, the anatomical causes that are not neurological should be taken into account. Therefore, the rectal manipulation is essential in the physical examination. It is proved that the multidisciplinary management, the interrelation with primary health care and the algorithm of diagnosis and treatment decrease during the time of evolution of the disease.

Keywords : Constipation; encopresis.