Diarrheal Diseases: A Review of Normal Physiology, Pathophysiology & Approach to Treatment (Milner-Fenwick Undergraduate Teaching Project, Unit 25) (Gastroenterology-Liver Disease Teaching Materials)

This is a broad, yet comprehensive unit that integrates basic principles of intestinal water and electrolyte transport with current concepts of pathophysiologic mechanisms of diarrheal diseases and diarrhea management. Normal physiology of intestinal salt and water transport is discussed in the context of cell structure and function, cell regulation and whole organ function. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying diarrhea associated with inflammation, enteric pathogens, hormone-producing tumors, solute malabsorption and diabetic diarrhea are covered. Suggested strategies for the evaluation and treatment of patients with acute and chronic diarrheal diseases are provided. Basic concepts of anti-diarrheal drug actions are also discussed.