Review Article
Ali Khairallah Alzahrani
Abstract
Background: Congenital chloride-losing diarrhea is a medical emergency that become a mostly pediatric problem in many countries including Saudi Arabia. It is requiring early diagnostics and treatment to prevent severe dehydration and infant mortality. Aim of the review: To summarize data on congenital chloride diarrhea including: incidence, pathophysiology and management. Methods: Data are based on MEDLINE search for chloride losing diarrhea in addition to clinical experience in treatment of these cases. Results: Life-long salt substitution with NaCl and KCl stabilizes fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance. When early diagnosed and properly treated, the long-term outcome is favorable. Conclusions: This review summarizes data on congenital chloride diarrhea and provides guide lines of treatment.