A 1 month old infant, exclusively breastfed, consults because he has a bowel movement every 5 or 6 days with straining but with a soft consistency, what would our attitude be?
The correct answer is 4. The normal range of stool output in young infants is very wide. To suspect aganglionic megacolon there is usually a delay in the evacuation of meconium and often other associated symptoms such as abdominal distension, difficulty in gaining weight, etc.
Start laxative treatment.
Supplement breastfeeding with anti-constipation formula.
Start daily rectal stimulation.
It is considered normal intestinal rhythm.
Refer to Pediatric Digestive to rule out aganglionic megacolon.
The normal range of stool output in young infants is very wide.
To suspect aganglionic megacolon there is usually a delay in the evacuation of meconium and often other associated symptoms such as abdominal distension, difficulty in gaining weight, etc.