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Incidence of Campylobacter enteritis in the midwestern United States
Abstract:
The incidence of Campylobacter enteritis was assessed in an 800-bed medical center in the midwestern United States. Stool specimens from 203 patients were cultured on a modified Skirrow's selective media and incubated for 48 hours at 42 C in a microaerophilic atmosphere. Campylobacter fetus ssp. jejuni was isolated from 10 patients for an incidence rate of 4.9 percent. All patients were symptomatic. The results suggest that clinical laboratories must establish methods to culture and identify this organism on a routine basis.
Insights
Campylobacter enteritis affects nearly 5% of symptomatic patients in a midwestern medical center. Routine laboratory methods are crucial for identifying this common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Campylobacter enteritis is a significant cause of bacterial gastroenteritis.
- Accurate incidence data is essential for public health surveillance and resource allocation.
- The role of Campylobacter fetus ssp. jejuni in enteritis requires ongoing investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of Campylobacter enteritis in a midwestern US medical center.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of standard laboratory culture methods for Campylobacter detection.
- To emphasize the need for routine identification of Campylobacter fetus ssp. jejuni.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving stool specimen culture from 203 patients.
- Use of modified Skirrow's selective media for Campylobacter isolation.
- Incubation at 42°C in a microaerophilic atmosphere for 48 hours.
Main Results:
- Campylobacter fetus ssp. jejuni was identified in 10 symptomatic patients.
- This represents an incidence rate of 4.9% within the study population.
- All positive cases were associated with patient symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Campylobacter enteritis is a relevant diagnosis in symptomatic patients presenting to healthcare facilities.
- Clinical laboratories should implement and maintain reliable methods for routine Campylobacter culture and identification.
- Early and accurate diagnosis facilitates appropriate patient management and epidemiological tracking.