Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders

What is the most common cause of persistent diarrhea?

Giardia (correct)

E. histolytica

C. difficile

Campylobacter

What diagnostic procedure may be indicated if stool studies are unrevealing?

Endoscopy with duodenal aspirates and biopsies

Colonoscopy with biopsies

Abdominal CT scan

All of the above (correct)

What is the key feature of Brainerd diarrhea?

Subtle inflammation of the distal small intestine or proximal colon

Associated with antibiotic use

Acute onset diarrhea lasting 1-3 years

Both a and b (correct)

What is the primary goal in treating acute diarrhea?

Fluid and electrolyte replacement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a recommended approach for fluid replacement in severe acute diarrhea?

Oral sugar-electrolyte solutions Signup and view all the answers

When might structural examination of the gastrointestinal tract be appropriate in patients with persistent diarrhea?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is used to treat diarrhea associated with IBS?

Both rifaximin and eluxadoline Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential side effect of eluxadoline?

Sphincter of Oddi spasm and acute pancreatitis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an important component of management for patients with chronic diarrhea?

Fluid and electrolyte repletion Signup and view all the answers

What additional management may be necessary for patients with chronic steatorrhea?

Replacement of fat-soluble vitamins Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about constipation is true?

Most persons have at least three bowel movements per week Signup and view all the answers

What should be analyzed in detail to ascertain what a patient means by 'constipation' or 'difficulty' with defecation?

The individual patient's symptoms Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate prevalence rate for chronic constipation in the U.S. population?

12-19% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the gender differences in chronic constipation is true, according to the text?

Women are affected twice as often as men, reaching parity at 70 years of age. Signup and view all the answers

Based on the information provided, which of the following statements about diarrhea and constipation is correct?

They account for nearly 50% of referrals to gastroenterologists. Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate cost per patient for constipation or hemorrhoids, compared to controls?

About double the cost of controls Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about diarrhea and constipation is true, according to the text?

They can range from mild to severe or life-threatening. Signup and view all the answers

What is the reason stated for the importance of clinicians understanding the pathophysiology and management of diarrhea and constipation?

To deliver rational and cost-effective care Signup and view all the answers