Abstract

PIP: Acute diarrhea refers to diarrhea which persists for less than 2 weeks duration, while persistent diarrhea lasts for longer than 2 weeks. Recurrent and frequent attacks, such as may be experienced among people with AIDS, often seem to be one long episode of persistent diarrhea. Since acute and persistent diarrhea have different causes and treatments, it is important to ask patients with diarrhea when the diarrhea first began. Studies from Zaire, the Central African Republic, Uganda, and Tanzania suggest that 40-80% of people with AIDS will suffer from persistent diarrhea at some stage. The etiology of diarrhea in AIDS, treatment, and prevention are discussed based upon the author's experience working in Lusaka. Progress has been slow in addressing problems relevant to people with AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa and much remains to be learned in preventing and treating such diseases.