Encopresis
Alternative Names
Soiling; Incontinence - stoolSymptoms
- Inability to retain feces (bowel incontinence)
- Passing stool in inappropriate places (generally in the child's clothes)
- Secretive behavior associated with bowel movements
- Constipation and hard stools
- Occasional passage of very large stool that almost blocks up the toilet
Exams and Tests
Digital examination of the rectal area may show a fecal impaction. An abdominal x-ray may confirm impacted stool in the colon.
References
Behrman RE. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.
Ferri FF. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2007: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2007.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.