ASGE Annual GI Advanced Practice Provider Course (On-Demand) - Clinical Case-Based Learning (Day Two) | April 2023-Evaluation of Acute and Chronic Diarrhea

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discusses the definitions of acute and chronic diarrhea and the appropriate evaluation and testing for each. Acute diarrhea is defined as lasting 14 days or fewer and is most commonly caused by infectious agents. The video highlights various infectious causes, including viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. The evaluation for acute diarrhea involves assessing the duration, frequency, and characteristics of symptoms, as well as associated symptoms and potential exposures. Chronic diarrhea, lasting more than 30 days, requires a different approach to evaluation as the causes differ. The video outlines the categories of chronic diarrhea, including malabsorptive, secretory, inflammatory, motility-related, and osmotic causes. The evaluation for chronic diarrhea involves a meticulous history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, including blood work, stool studies, and imaging studies. The importance of ruling out alarm symptoms and considering red flags in patients with chronic diarrhea is emphasized. The video concludes with a case study and treatment options for microscopic colitis, a common cause of chronic diarrhea. The presenter also emphasizes the need for volume repletion and education on the use of anti-diarrheal medications for symptomatic relief.

Asset Subtitle

Jill Olmstead, DNPc, ANP-BC, CCS-P, FAANP

Keywords

acute diarrhea

chronic diarrhea

evaluation

infectious causes

diagnostic testing

microscopic colitis