Diagnosis Dictionary

Encopresis (Symptoms)

Often caused by chronic constipation, encropresis is the passage of stools by a child age four or older into his or her clothing. It is not normally under the conscious control of the child.

The four symptoms used for diagnosis of encopresis are:

  • Repeated passage of feces into inappropriate places (such as clothing or the floor), whether involuntary or intentional.
  • At least one such event a month for at least three months.
  • Age is at least 4 years (or the equivalent developmental level).
  • The behavior is not due exclusively to the direct physical effects of a substance such as a laxative or a general medical condition, except constipation.
Next: Causes

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