[Virusenteritis in childhood (author's transl)].

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Pediatrics
• Gastroenterology

Context:

• Bacterial infections account for approximately 20% of infantile enteritis cases.
• The majority of non-bacterial infantile enteritis cases are presumed to be viral in origin.
• Research into enterotropic viruses causing infantile gastroenteritis began in 1943, with significant advancements since the mid-1950s.

Purpose:

• To review the known viral agents responsible for infantile enteritis and gastroenteritis.
• To highlight the historical discovery and evolving understanding of enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and other viral pathogens.
• To emphasize the significant role of Rotavirus as a primary cause of acute infantile gastroenteritis worldwide.

Summary:

• Enteroviruses and adenoviruses have been identified as causative agents of infantile gastroenteritis.
• The Norwalk agent, discovered in 1973, primarily affects adults but underscores the diversity of enteritis-causing viruses.
• Rotavirus has emerged as the most prevalent cause of acute infantile gastroenteritis globally, implicated in 40-60% of cases.
• More recently, Coronaviruses and Astroviruses have been detected as potential causes of gastroenteritis in animals and humans.

Impact:

• Establishes Rotavirus as a major global pathogen in pediatric gastroenteritis.
• Provides a historical overview of viral enteritis research, identifying key discoveries.
• Suggests ongoing research into emerging viral agents like Coronaviruses and Astroviruses in human and animal health.