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[Study of intestinal microflora in children with acute and persistent diarrhea]

Y Garcia Cristia1, T Fragoso Arbelo, M Valdes-Dapena Vivanco

  • 1Instituto de Ciencias Médicas de la Habana.

Insights

Altered enteric microflora, including bacterial overgrowth, is a significant risk factor for persistent diarrhea in infants. Microbiological analysis of duodenal content revealed both quantitative and qualitative changes in gut flora.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Persistent diarrhea in infants often has multifactorial or unidentified causes.
  • The role of enteric microflora alterations as a risk factor for diarrhea duration requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if changes in enteric microflora contribute to the persistence of diarrhea in infants.
  • To correlate duodenal microflora composition with clinical outcomes and nutritional status.

Main Methods:

  • Studied 30 infants with acute diarrhea and 30 with persistent diarrhea.
  • Collected duodenal content samples using a double-lumen tube for microbiological analysis.
  • Examined for enteric microorganisms, anaerobes, and Candida, correlating findings with nutritional status and stool cultures.

Main Results:

  • Identified quantitative and qualitative alterations in duodenal flora in both acute and persistent diarrhea groups.
  • Bacterial overgrowth in the duodenum was found to be a significant factor in persistent diarrhea.
  • Duodenal microflora analysis provided insights into the pathogenesis of prolonged diarrhea.

Conclusions:

  • Alterations in duodenal microflora, including bacterial overgrowth, play a crucial role in the persistence of diarrhea in infants.
  • Microbiological assessment of the gut flora is important for understanding and managing persistent diarrhea.
  • Further research into enteric microflora's impact on infant diarrhea is warranted.

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