Encopresis
Encopresis
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Prevalence
Prevalence
It is estimated that approximately 1% of 5-year-olds have encopresis, and the disorder is more common in males than in females.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Genetic and physiological
Genetic and physiological
Painful defecation can lead to constipation and a cycle of withholding behaviors that make encopresis more likely.
Use of some medications (e.g., anticonvulsants, cough suppressants) may increase constipation and make encopresis more likely.
Symptoms
Symptoms
Repeated passage of feces into inappropriate places (e.g., clothing, floor), whether involuntary or intentional.
At least one such event occurs each month for at least 3 months.
Chronological age is at least 4 years (or equivalent developmental level).
The behavior is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., laxatives) or another medical condition except through a mechanism involving constipation.
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