5 Questions
What is the classification of diarrhoea based on duration?
Acute (≤ 14 days), Persistent (≥ 14 days), Chronic (> 30 days)
What is the duration threshold for persistent diarrhoea?
≥ 14 days
What are the two main categories of pathophysiological classification of diarrhoea?
Inflammatory and Noninflammatory diarrhoea
What is the characteristic feature of diarrhoea?
Increased liquidity of the stool, and/or Increased loose or liquid stool frequency (>3 times/day)
What is the primary cause of inflammatory diarrhoea?
Presence of an inflammatory process (can be due to viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection), radiation injury, or inflammatory bowel disease
Study Notes
Classification of Diarrhoea
- Diarrhoea is classified based on duration into acute, persistent, and chronic categories.
- Acute diarrhoea lasts less than 14 days and is typically caused by infections or food toxins.
- Chronic diarrhoea persists for more than 30 days and may indicate underlying health issues.
Duration Threshold
- Persistent diarrhoea is defined as lasting between 14 and 30 days.
Pathophysiological Classification
- The two main categories are:
- Secretory diarrhoea, where the intestines secrete electrolytes and water, independent of food intake.
- Inflammatory diarrhoea, which involves damage to the intestinal lining, often related to infections or diseases.
Characteristic Feature
- The characteristic feature of diarrhoea is an increase in the frequency, fluidity, or volume of bowel movements compared to normal.
Primary Cause of Inflammatory Diarrhoea
- The primary cause of inflammatory diarrhoea is typically due to infections by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites that inflame the intestinal lining.
Test your knowledge of the management of diarrhoea and constipation with this quiz. Explore the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal disorders, mechanisms of drug-induced diarrhoea, and the role of water reabsorption in the body.
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