There are many causes of chronic diarrhea, however I like to classify them into two categories, those resulting from chronic inflammation and those from a disruption of the normal physiological processes. The noninfectious conditions would include granulomatous enteritis, lymphosarcoma, and even chronic sand ingestion. Changes in the normal physiological processes would be related to abnomal fermentation occuring in the large colon. Other organs may have some dysfunction resulting in diarrhea. Examples would include conditions such as congestive heart failure and chronic liver disease.
Treatment is usually empiric and dependent upon the results of the diagnostic tests.
The protocols include correction of the acid-base and electrolyte abnormalities and deworming using a larvicidal dosage. Antibiotics may be indicated. Rheaform is usually reserved when all else fails.