Shigellosis (Shigella Infection)
Description
An intestinal disease caused by the bacteria shigella. The main sign of infection is diarrhea, which is often bloody. The infection is acquired through direct contact with infected stool, or obtained by eating contaminated food, or drinking contaminated water. Young children are most susceptible. Patients with normal immune systems will generally recover without treatment. Shigella can result in severe dehydration, seizures, toxic megacolon, rectal prolapse and hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Symptoms
Diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Cultures of the stool establish the diagnosis. Blood tests may be performed to define the extent of dehydration.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- UA
Treatment
Most patients are treated with antibiotics. Dehydration is treated with intravenous fluids, and any body chemistry abnormalities (electrolytes) will be corrected.
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