Continuous or recurrent uncontrolled passage of fecal material (>10 mL) for at least one month in an individual older than 3 or 4 years old

Considering definitions used among various studies, it is reasonable to divide fecal incontinence into major and minor:

Prevalence estimated between 11-15% of community-dwelling adults and up to 40% among nursing home residents

Often mistaken as ‘diarrhea’; A detailed history of diarrhea should include questions about fecal incontinence

Anal sphincter injury (i.e. obstetrical trauma or post surgical)

Neurological (Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Stroke, Diabetic neuropathy, Cauda equine)

Pudendal nerve injury/neuropathy (may be due to obstetric trauma, or severe constipation resulting in the nerve being stretched)

Other: perianal sepsis, systemic scleroisis (fibrosis of internal anal sphincter), radiation proctitis (stiff rectum overwhelms normal continence)

Physiology of defecation: Begins with colonic high-amplitude propagated contraction » Rectal distention: