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Travellers' diarrhoea caused by Campylobacter jejuni
Annals of Clinical Research
|April 1, 1982
Summary
Campylobacter jejuni is a significant cause of travellers' diarrhoea, presenting symptoms similar to other infections. This bacterium was identified in 5.8% of patients with diarrhoea during an 18-month study.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Travellers' diarrhoea is a common ailment affecting individuals travelling to different regions.
- Identifying the causative agents of diarrhoeal diseases is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
- Campylobacter jejuni is a known pathogen, but its prevalence in travellers' diarrhoea requires ongoing investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of Campylobacter jejuni in travellers with diarrhoea.
- To compare the prevalence of C. jejuni with other common bacterial causes of diarrhoea.
- To understand the clinical presentation and origin of imported C. jejuni infections.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study over 18 months at a Tropical Diseases Outpatient Department.
- Faecal sample analysis for bacterial pathogens in 2488 patients with diarrhoea.
- Data collection on patient travel history and symptoms.
Main Results:
- Campylobacter jejuni was isolated from 5.8% (19/329) of travellers with diarrhoea.
- Incidences of Salmonella, Shigella, and C. jejuni were similar in diarrhoeal patients.
- C. jejuni caused initial symptoms indistinguishable from other causes of travellers' diarrhoea.
- 48 patients had imported C. jejuni from 21 countries; 83% were tourists.
Conclusions:
- Campylobacter jejuni is a notable cause of travellers' diarrhoea with non-specific initial symptoms.
- Surveillance of imported C. jejuni infections is important, particularly among tourists.
- Further research into C. jejuni's role in diarrhoeal diseases among travellers is warranted.