Modern management of acute diarrhea and dehydration in children.

Advances in clinical and laboratory knowledge have led to new concepts in the management of acute infectious diarrhea in children. The major advance has been the development of oral rehydration therapy, which is effective for the treatment of diarrhea of any etiology in patients of any age. Optimal management of acute infectious diarrhea includes the following: (1) rapid rehydration (and maintenance of hydration) using an appropriate glucose-based or cereal-based oral rehydration solution; (2) early refeeding with a mixed diet and no interruption of breast feeding; (3) continuation of lactose-containing foods unless clinical signs of lactose intolerance develop, and (4) a staged laboratory evaluation, with the administration of antimicrobial therapy when indicated.