True/False MCQ · Chronic Diarrhoea and Malabsorption
Regarding the definition and classification of chronic diarrhoea, the following statements are TRUE:
- AIt is defined as 3 or more loose or watery stools per day for more than 4 weeks
- BOsmotic diarrhoea typically stops with fasting
- CChronic diarrhoea is itself a final diagnosis
- DSecretory diarrhoea typically persists during fasting
- EInflammatory diarrhoea results from mucosal inflammation or ulceration
Show answers and explanation
- A. True
- B. True
- C. False: Chronic diarrhoea is not itself a final diagnosis; it is a clinical presentation whose underlying mechanism and cause must be identified.
- D. True
- E. True
Definition and classification
Chronic diarrhoea is classified by mechanism, which guides management.
Definition
- 3 or more loose/watery stools per day for more than 4 weeks.
Mechanisms
| Type | Feature |
|---|---|
| Osmotic | Poorly absorbed solutes; stops with fasting |
| Secretory | Active secretion; persists with fasting |
| Inflammatory | Mucosal inflammation/ulceration |
| Malabsorptive | Impaired digestion/absorption |
| Functional | Altered gut-brain interaction (IBS) |
Statement-by-statement verdict
Why A is true
The definition is 3 or more loose stools/day for over 4 weeks.
Why B is true
Osmotic diarrhoea stops with fasting.
Why C is false
Chronic diarrhoea is not itself a final diagnosis; it is a presentation to classify and investigate.
Why D is true
Secretory diarrhoea persists with fasting.
Why E is true
Inflammatory diarrhoea results from mucosal inflammation/ulceration.
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