Encopretic children: experience with fifty cases
Bulut, M.; Tekant, G.
Turkish Journal of Pediatrics 33(3): 167-172
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-4301 PMID: 1792696 Document Number: 371358
Encopresis is defined as the deposition of stools in a child's underwear despite normal defecation control mechanisms. Fifty children with encopresis were admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Department of Sisli Children's Hospital [Istanbal, Turkey] between October 1, 1987 and January 1, 1990. Two treatment regimens were used. Thirteen patients received mineral oil and glycerine suppositories and 37 patients received rectal irrigations and Lactulose. Five patients were lost to follow-up and 40 patients have completed their six month treatment schedule. The results of our study suggest that encopresis is a complex abnormal motility disorder, requiring a multidiciplinary approach. Best results will be obtained by good parent-child-doctor cooperation and close follow-up.