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Gastroenteritis in children

Jacqueline R Dalby-Payne1, Elizabeth J Elliott

  • 1The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.

BMJ Clinical Evidence
|July 28, 2011
PubMed

Insights

This systematic review examines interventions for preventing and treating acute gastroenteritis in children. It found rotavirus vaccines effective for prevention and highlighted rehydration solutions, probiotics, and zinc for treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Acute gastroenteritis is a common gastrointestinal infection, primarily viral, causing diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
  • Management focuses on fluid replacement to prevent or treat dehydration, regardless of the causative agent.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of interventions for preventing acute gastroenteritis in children.
  • To assess treatments for acute gastroenteritis in children, including rehydration, nutritional support, and medications.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of 42 studies, including systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and observational studies.
  • Searched major databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library) up to March 2010.
  • Included harms alerts from regulatory agencies (FDA, MHRA).

Main Results:

  • Rotavirus vaccines demonstrate effectiveness in preventing gastroenteritis.
  • Enteral rehydration solutions, lactose-free feeds, probiotics, and zinc are effective for treating gastroenteritis.
  • Ondansetron is effective for managing vomiting associated with gastroenteritis.

Conclusions:

  • Rotavirus vaccination is a key preventive strategy for childhood gastroenteritis.
  • Evidence supports the use of specific interventions for managing gastroenteritis symptoms and preventing dehydration.
  • The review provides a comprehensive overview of evidence-based practices for pediatric gastroenteritis.
Abstract

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