Treatment of acute diarrhea in children

In the past decade a number of studies have systematically addressed the questions that existed regarding optimal ways to rehydrate and then refeed infants and children with diarrhea. Two very thorough papers are the highlights of the past year's publications in the topic of acute gastroenteritis in children. One summarizes the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the other questions, with a background of past research and experience, the need to estimate fluid deficit in order to determine the fluid needs of each individual patient. Oral rehydration seems to be here to stay. Abundant literature supports its advantages over intravenous therapy in otherwise healthy children. Early refeeding also seems to be widely accepted, without a need for bowel rest, formula dilution, or systematic elimination of lactose. Age-appropriate staple foods are also indicated along the refeeding process.