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Gastroenteritis among children in Riyadh: a prospective analysis of 254 hospital admissions
Insights
This study on pediatric gastroenteritis in Saudi Arabia found that infants under one year old, especially those bottle-fed and malnourished, faced the highest risks. Mortality was significantly higher in malnourished infants and those with hypernatraemic dehydration.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Gastroenteritis is a significant cause of childhood illness and mortality globally.
- Understanding local epidemiological patterns is crucial for effective public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical features and outcomes of pediatric gastroenteritis in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- To identify risk factors associated with severe illness and mortality.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 254 infants and children admitted with gastroenteritis.
- Data collected on age, feeding practices, nutritional status, dehydration, and causative agents.
- Analysis of mortality rates and associated factors.
Main Results:
- 80% of patients were under one year old, with peak incidence in the 0-5 months age group.
- Severe malnutrition (38.9%) and hypernatraemic dehydration (12.6%) were prevalent.
- Salmonella and enteropathogenic E. coli were common pathogens; isolation rate was 23.8%.
- Mortality rate was 9.1%, higher in malnourished, hypernatraemic, and younger children.
Conclusions:
- Infants, particularly those under one year, are most vulnerable to severe gastroenteritis.
- Malnutrition and hypernatraemic dehydration are critical risk factors for mortality.
- Targeted interventions for infant nutrition and hydration are essential in this region.
Abstract:
A prospective study was undertaken of 254 infants and children admitted with gastroenteritis to the Children's Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during the period 1 September 1980 to 1 February 1981. Analysis of data showed that 80% of the admissions were less than one year of age. The peak incidence occurred in the 0-five months age group. 65.4% were on bottle feeding. The incidence of second- and third-degree malnutrition was 38.9%. Marasmus was the commonest type of severe malnutrition seen. Hypernatraemic dehydration occurred in 12.6% of the cases. The parasitic and bacterial isolation rate was 23.8%, salmonella and entero-pathogenic E. coli being the commonest organisms. The mortality rate was 9.1% and was higher among malnourished patients, those with hypernatraemia and in the younger age groups.