The initial diagnostic scheme for patients with chronic diarrhea
- The scheme in the below image is based on obtaining a careful history, looking for specific physical findings, and obtaining simple laboratory data to help classify the diarrhea as watery, fatty, or inflammatory.
- The value of obtaining a quantitative (as opposed to a spot) stool collection is debated among experts.
- A quantitative collection over 48 or 72 hours permits a better estimation of fluid, electrolyte, and fat excretion, but is not absolutely necessary for the appropriate classification of diarrhea.
