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Enterotoxigenic Aeromonas hydrophila and diarrhoea in adults
The Medical Journal of Australia
|January 8, 1983
Abstract:
Aeromonas hydrophila was isolated from the faeces of 32 patients during a nine month period in three hospitals in Western Australia. All 32 isolates produced enterotoxin which was detected by the suckling-mouse test, and all patients except one had diarrhoea. Treatment should be considered in patients with chronic diarrhoea and in those with malignant disease or with hepatobiliary disease who are at risk of developing aeromonas septicaemia.
Insights
Aeromonas hydrophila bacteria were found in 32 patients, causing diarrhea in most. Enterotoxin production was confirmed, highlighting risks for immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Aeromonas hydrophila is an opportunistic pathogen.
- Enterotoxigenic strains can cause gastrointestinal illness.
- Risk factors for severe Aeromonas infections include compromised immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Aeromonas hydrophila in patients with diarrhea.
- To determine the enterotoxigenicity of isolated strains.
- To identify patient groups at risk for Aeromonas-related complications.
Main Methods:
- Faecal samples were collected from 32 patients over nine months.
- Aeromonas hydrophila isolates were identified.
- Enterotoxin production was assessed using the suckling-mouse test.
Main Results:
- Aeromonas hydrophila was isolated from 32 patients.
- All 32 isolates produced enterotoxin.
- Diarrhea was present in 31 of the 32 patients.
Conclusions:
- Enterotoxigenic Aeromonas hydrophila is a cause of diarrhea in Western Australia.
- Patients with chronic diarrhea, malignancy, or hepatobiliary disease are at risk for Aeromonas septicaemia.
- Consideration of Aeromonas infection is important in at-risk patient populations.