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[Chronic diarrhea due to Cryptosporidium: the efficacy of spiramycin treatment]
G Galvagno1, G Cattaneo, E Reverso-Giovantin
1Divisione di Pediatria, Ospedale S. Croce, USL 32, Moncalieri, TO, Italia.
Abstract:
Cryptosporidium has received increasing attention as a pathogen in normal as well as immunocompromised persons. We report a case of cryptosporidiosis occurred in a 18-months-old-girl who was treated with spiramycin for 8 days with complete resolution of diarrhea within the first days of therapy; follow-up stool examination was negative for the protozoan. The incidence of diarrhea due to Cryptosporidium seems to be higher than it was reported before: so fecal samples, when negative for other etiological agents, should be examined for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Spiramycin seems to be an effective and well-tolerated drug: treatment is recommended in children with prolonged and/or severe diarrhea when Cryptosporidium seems to be the etiological cause of the disease.
Insights
Cryptosporidium infection can cause severe diarrhea in children. Spiramycin effectively treated an 18-month-old girl
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Cryptosporidium is an emerging protozoan pathogen affecting both healthy and immunocompromised individuals.
- Diarrheal diseases pose a significant health challenge, particularly in pediatric populations.
Observation:
- A case of cryptosporidiosis in an 18-month-old girl with prolonged diarrhea is presented.
- The patient received an 8-day course of spiramycin for the infection.
Findings:
- Complete resolution of diarrhea was observed within the initial days of spiramycin therapy.
- Follow-up stool examinations confirmed the absence of Cryptosporidium oocysts, indicating successful treatment.
- The study suggests an increasing incidence of Cryptosporidium-related diarrhea.
Implications:
- Fecal sample analysis for Cryptosporidium oocysts is recommended when other etiological agents are ruled out.
- Spiramycin demonstrates efficacy and good tolerability as a treatment for pediatric cryptosporidiosis.
- Treatment with spiramycin is advised for children experiencing severe or prolonged diarrhea attributed to Cryptosporidium.
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