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Pathophysiology of diarrheal disorders
1Department of Medicine, University Hospital, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44106.
Reviews of Infectious Diseases
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Most travelers' diarrhea cases are mild, causing rare severe fluid loss. Systemic symptoms like fatigue and nausea are common, impacting travel plans due to intestinal processes and inflammatory mediators.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is a common illness affecting tourists and business travelers.
- Most TD cases are mild to moderate, but systemic symptoms can cause significant morbidity.
- Understanding the mechanisms behind TD and its associated symptoms is crucial for prevention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of travelers' diarrhea.
- To discuss the mechanisms underlying systemic symptoms associated with TD.
- To highlight the impact of TD on travelers' well-being and ability to participate in travel.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on travelers' diarrhea.
- Analysis of the roles of secretory, osmotic, and inflammatory processes in TD.
- Discussion of the involvement of the enteric nervous system, neuropeptides, hormones, and inflammatory mediators.
Main Results:
- Majority of travelers' diarrhea cases present with mild to moderate symptoms.
- Severe fluid and electrolyte losses are infrequent.
- Systemic symptoms (malaise, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, fever) are common and contribute to morbidity.
Conclusions:
- Travelers' diarrhea, while often mild, can lead to significant systemic symptoms impacting travel.
- Emerging understanding of the enteric nervous system and inflammatory pathways offers insights into TD's mechanisms.
- Further research into these mechanisms can inform better strategies for managing and preventing TD.