in children, almost all diarrhea is due to an infectious agent
most etiologies are self-limited and do not need further evaluation except in the following conditions:
infants < 2 months of age
gross blood in stool
WBC's on microscopic exam of stool
toxic-appearance
immunocompromised child
diarrhea developing while an inpatient
therapy is aimed at oral rehydration and providing nutrional needs
ORT is best with commerical formulations specific for this as most other clear liquids (juice, sodas) are hypertonic and have excess glucose resulting in ongoing diarrhea-like stools
after rehydration, resume the child's normal diet.
