We describe the long-term (mean 6.8 years) follow-up of 43 children treated
medically for chronic constipation and encopresis. Overall outcome was quite
good. Thirty children (70%) were entirely asymptomatic at follow-up.
Intermittent mild constipation persisted in 13 patients; only two required
persistent but infrequent laxative therapy. Encopresis persisted in three of 17
children who initially reported this symptom, and was associated with
significant behavioral problems.
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