Encopresis review.

Functional fecal incontinence or encopresis is a condition commonly seen in children, and as such, pediatricians and health care providers who care for children should be familiar with this diagnosis. Encopresis refers to the passage or leakage of feces in inappropriate settings. There is a high prevalence of associated behavioral symptoms in children who have encopresis. Treatment involves patient and family education, behavioral strategies for stool regulation, disimpaction of stool in children who have constipation, and long-term maintenance of regular bowel habits. This discussion reviews the definition, epidemiology, clinical presentation, and treatment of children who have encopresis.