Fecal incontinence in childhood
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - R15
What is fecal incontinence in childhood?
The loss of stool in children over the age of four, without control, may be a sign of fecal incontinence. It can be organic, meaning an inability to coordinate bowel movements. However, at this age, the child is expected to have control, so this condition usually occurs after or as a result of congenital abnormalities.
Causes
The most common causes are anorectal malformations, congenital megacolon and congenital spinal cord abnormalities.
Symptoms
- loss of stool during physical effort
- dry or pellet-like stools
- dermatitis associated with incontinence (diaper rash)
- underwear soiled with fecal material
Treatment
Fecal incontinence in childhood can negatively impact quality of life and should be addressed to minimize its severity.
Treatment includes guidance on dietary habits; use of dietary fiber supplements; toilet training; pharmacological approach; fecal disimpaction; physical therapy with pelvic floor muscle training using electromyographic biofeedback; evacuating enemas and use of appendicostomy.
The Pediatric Specialty Clinic at Einstein has state-of-the-art biofeedback equipment for treating constipation and a specialized team for proper care.