Functional nonretentive fecal incontinence in children

Fecal incontinence, the loss of feces in the underwear after age 4 years, is a frustrating phenomenon for children and their parents. It is difficult to treat, presenting as a single symptom without any organic cause or signs of constipation. This review addresses the definition of functional nonretentive fecal incontinence and provides an overview of its epidemiology, patho-physiology, clinical features, diagnostic work-up and prognosis.