[Cryptosporidiosis in children]
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Abstract:
During January through June 1988, oocysts of Cryptosporidium were identified in fecal samples of 83 (7.7%) of 1073 children who presented with acute gastroenteritis. Other intestinal pathogens were less common: Salmonella 4.2%, E. coli 1.9%, Shigella 2.6% and Campylobacter jejuni 5.0%. Cryptosporidiosis (C) was more common under the age of 5 years than over (8.4% vs 1.8%, respectively, p less than 0.01). In 6 (7.2%) children with C, another stool pathogen was found. Frequent signs of C were diarrhea (85.4%), vomiting (36.3%) and fever (32.7%). Although no anticryptosporidial treatment was given, most children recovered within 5-9 days, but 6 had to be hospitalized: 4 were dehydrated and 5 had electrolyte imbalance. Repeated examination showed persistence of oocysts in the stools for up to 19 days. We conclude that C is a significant cause of gastroenteritis in Israeli children under the age of 5 years which occasionally requires hospitalization. We therefore recommend routine examination for C in cases of acute gastroenteritis.
Insights
Cryptosporidium (C) is a common cause of acute gastroenteritis in Israeli children under five years old. Routine testing for C is recommended due to its prevalence and potential for hospitalization.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
Context:
- Acute gastroenteritis is a common childhood illness.
- Identifying the causative agent is crucial for effective management.
- Previous data on Cryptosporidium prevalence in Israeli children was limited.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in children with acute gastroenteritis in Israel.
- To compare the incidence of Cryptosporidium with other common enteric pathogens.
- To describe the clinical presentation and outcomes of cryptosporidiosis in children.
Summary:
- Cryptosporidium oocysts were found in 7.7% of 1073 children with acute gastroenteritis between January and June 1988.
- The prevalence was significantly higher in children under five years old (8.4%) compared to older children (1.8%).
- Diarrhea, vomiting, and fever were common symptoms; hospitalization was occasionally required for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Impact:
- Cryptosporidiosis is a significant cause of pediatric gastroenteritis in Israel, particularly in young children.
- The findings support the recommendation for routine Cryptosporidium screening in cases of acute gastroenteritis.
- Understanding the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium aids in public health strategies and clinical decision-making.