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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Small Child, Loose Stools. Taking Cefixime. Stool Analysis Shows Occult Blood, Pus Cells. Suggestions?

My baby is 5 months old, she is having loose stool and passing motion 2-3 times minimum daily. Her stool analysis showed occult blood (++), bacteria (+), RBCs (present), Pus cells (+), Vegetable cells (present). She is having loose stools for almost 3 weeks. she was given cefixime (100mg) antibiotic dose for 7 days. Still her condition has not improved... Plz give some suggestions
Fri, 14 Dec 2012
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Pediatrician, Cardiology 's  Response
Hello
As her condition did not improve after 7 days of antibiotic, a repeat stool examination should be done. You have not mentioned about the feeding of the baby.Occult blood in stool may also be due to milk protein allergy.
Soy based formula ( lactose free) will help in loose stool of such a long duration, as in most of the cases there is also some lactose intolerance .
Give her Zinc syrup and some probiotic.
Even after taking all these measures if her condition does not improve, then intravenous antibiotic along with antiprotozoal may be needed.
So I would suggest you to give her soy based formula along with zinc syrup and probiotic. Get a repeat stool test done and if needed consult your doc for any change in treatment.
Reagrds
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Pediatrician Dr. Sudha Shree Venkataraman's  Response
Hi

You say the frequency is just 2 to 3 times a day. This frequency is quite normal. What is the consistency? If its watery, its a matter of concern.

But occult blood and pus cells are a matter of concern. Good that you completed the entire course of antibiotics- which well would have covered most of the infection- if that would have been the cause. And some infants after recovery from such an episode, can continue with slightly increased frequency for few days.

You have not mentioned about the feeds your child is on.
Breast feeding infants can pass pasty stools.

If she is on formula, was there any change of formula?
Did you introduce any new food? Did you introduce cow`s milk?
These both may be the reason too.

Check her weight gain, activity and food intake. If they are okay, you can wait. Just give her probiotic sachets like Econorm and Zinc syrups after discussing with your doctor.

But if its watery. she is losing weight, activity is poor- you must get her stool investigated further for reducing substances etc.

Hope you find my answer helpful.
Wish your daughter good health.
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Small Child, Loose Stools. Taking Cefixime. Stool Analysis Shows Occult Blood, Pus Cells. Suggestions?

Hello As her condition did not improve after 7 days of antibiotic, a repeat stool examination should be done. You have not mentioned about the feeding of the baby.Occult blood in stool may also be due to milk protein allergy. Soy based formula ( lactose free) will help in loose stool of such a long duration, as in most of the cases there is also some lactose intolerance . Give her Zinc syrup and some probiotic. Even after taking all these measures if her condition does not improve, then intravenous antibiotic along with antiprotozoal may be needed. So I would suggest you to give her soy based formula along with zinc syrup and probiotic. Get a repeat stool test done and if needed consult your doc for any change in treatment. Reagrds