Encopresis treatment outcome: long-term follow-up of 45 cases.

Abstract

Among children diagnosed and treated for encopresis (N = 88) at either of two incontinence clinics between 1986 and 1994, 45 could be assessed for long-term (>12 months) outcome. Measures consisted of retrospective analysis of clinical charts and parent report of child soiling status. At follow-up (mean duration 53 months, range 15 to 99 months), 26 children (58%) were in remission, 13 (29%) were improved, and six (13%) showed no improvement. Logistic regression showed that children who presented with no previous encopresis treatment(s) (odds ratio 5.88, 95% confidence interval 1.61 to 21.55, p < .01) and/or children who presented with fecal retention (odds ratio 17.8, 95% confidence interval 2.70 to 153.37, p < .01) were more likely to be in remission. The interval between treatment and follow-up was significantly longer (mean 62 months, range 26 to 94) for children in remission than for children still soiling (mean 45 months, range 15 to 75) (p < .01). At follow-up 1 year or more after treatment for encopresis, a significant number of children may continue to soil. Previous encopresis treatment(s) and/or nonretentive encopresis may be risk factors for persistent soiling. The chances of complete remission of encopresis tend to increase with the passage of time.

• Authors: R M Rockney, W H McQuade, A L Days, H E Linn, A J Alario
• Journal: Journal of developmental and behavioral pediatrics : JDBP (J Dev Behav Pediatr) Vol. 17 Issue 6 Pg. 380-5 (Dec 1996) ISSN: 0196-206X [Print] United States
• PMID: 8960566 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Cathartics

Topics

• Behavior Therapy
• Cathartics (administration & dosage)
• Child
• Combined Modality Therapy
• Encopresis (psychology, therapy)
• Enema
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Male
• Retrospective Studies
• Treatment Outcome