Encopresis:: long-term clinical outcome of 67 cases

In this study we attempted to investigate the outcome of encopresis and to determine factors affecting prognosis. The sample consisted of 52 boys (77.6%) and 15 girls (22.4%) diagnosed as encopresis according to DSM IV diagnostic criteria. These patients were evaluated six years after their initial examination in the Department of Child Psychiatry. Clinical and demographical data were compared between initial and follow-up interviews and between patients with complete recovery and others. Fifty-six patients (83.6%) recovered completely and 11 (16.4%) continued to be encopretic after six years. Good school performance (p < 0.005), high levels of parental education (p < 0.005) and absence of constipation (p < 0.05) were associated with favorable outcome. In addition, secondary encopretics who were diagnosed within a year from onset of the symptom recovered significantly earlier (p < 0.001). Encopresis is a chronic disorder and complete recovery rates tend to increase with time. Families and primary health care providers should be informed about the treatment possibilities of encopresis for early intervention.