Genetics of diarrhea disorders in children

Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. Some common causes include infections, drugs, and some types of sugar. It often lasts just a couple of days. But, sometimes it can last longer. When this happens, it may mean be a sign of something more serious. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration (always feeling thirsty), fever, or blood in stools. Children with diarrhea that lasts longer than 2 days may need a doctor. Sometimes, we don’t know what causes diarrhea. Researchers think changes in certain genes may play a role. Scientists will use BioVU to look for children with diarrhea of unknown cause. Then they will check if they have any of these gene changes. They will compare the gene changes in children with diarrhea to healthy children. The goal is to find gene changes that may explain this type of diarrhea. The results of this study may help us better treat children with diarrhea. It could also help us know who might be at risk.