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J Pediatr (Rio J). 2011 May-Jun 8;87(3):199-205. doi: 10.2223/JPED.2087.

Persistent diarrhea: still an important challenge for the pediatrician.

Jornal de pediatria

[Article in Portuguese]
Jacy Alves Braga de Andrade, Ulysses Fagundes-Neto

Affiliations

  1. Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.

PMID: 21660370 DOI: 10.2223/JPED.2087

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To provide recent guidelines to reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases. We discuss the definition, clinical aspects, pathophysiology, diagnosis, management, and prevention of persistent diarrhea.

SOURCES: Electronic search of the MEDLINE database, Google search.

SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Acute diarrhea may be caused by a variety of agents, including bacterial, viral, and protozoan pathogens. The top priority in treatment of diarrhea is replacement of fluid and electrolytes losses, particularly at the acute stage, and, under certain circumstances, eradication of the enteropathogenic agent. On the other hand, treatment of persistent diarrhea should focus on prevention and management of food intolerance and malnutrition.

CONCLUSIONS: Promotion of breastfeeding, adequate interventions in the treatment of acute diarrheal episodes, introduction of safe dietary strategies for prevention of malnutrition, and improvements in sanitation and hygiene conditions, including sewage and clean water, are essential measures for the reduction of diarrheal morbidity and mortality rates in children under 5 years of age.

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