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[Epidemiology and clinical aspects of Campylobacter enteritis in childhood]
Abstract:
Stool specimens of 478 children with enteritic symptoms were screened for enteropathogenic bacteria over a 5-month period. 28 cases of infection due to Campylobacter jejuni were found. The incidence of Campylobacter enteritis exceeded that of salmonella and shigella infections recorded over the same period (17 and 11 cases, respectively). Infected children-aged between 2 months and 15 1/2 years-presented with symptoms of mild gastroenteritis. 18 patients had bloody diarrhoea, whilst 4 children aged between 4 and 9 years with abdominal pain showed a clinical picture mimicking acute appendicitis. Two severely dehydrated infants required parenteral fluids, but in the remaining cases dietetic treatment alone proved satisfactory.
Insights
Campylobacter jejuni infections were common in children with enteritis, surpassing Salmonella and Shigella. This bacterial cause of gastroenteritis, including bloody diarrhea, requires prompt diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Enteric infections are a significant cause of childhood illness.
- Bacterial pathogens like Salmonella and Shigella are commonly implicated in pediatric gastroenteritis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of Campylobacter jejuni as a cause of enteritis in children.
- To compare the prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni with other common enteropathogens.
Main Methods:
- Screening of stool specimens from 478 children presenting with enteritic symptoms.
- Microbiological analysis to identify enteropathogenic bacteria over a 5-month period.
Main Results:
- 28 cases of Campylobacter jejuni infection were identified.
- Campylobacter enteritis incidence (28 cases) exceeded Salmonella (17 cases) and Shigella (11 cases).
- Symptoms ranged from mild gastroenteritis to bloody diarrhea and appendicitis-like presentations.
Conclusions:
- Campylobacter jejuni is a prevalent cause of enteritis in children.
- Clinical presentations vary, necessitating consideration in differential diagnoses.
- Effective management includes supportive care and, in severe cases, fluid resuscitation.