758 Etilogy of Acute Diarrhea in Children in a Secondary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background and aims: Diarrhea refers to the passage of loose or watery stools, and occurs at some point in the life of nearly every child. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which alters the child's natural balance of water and electrolytes and can be serious if not treated promptly. Several factors can contribute to intestinal infections: duration of maternal breast feeding, food and enviromental contaminations, maternal education, home location, family income, access to treated water and basic sanitary conditions, seasonal variations and in special, the age of the host. Rotavirus is the most important etiologic agent of acute diarrhea in infants and young children. The aims of this study are: determine prevalence of acute diarrhea (AD) in children admitted to our hospital between January 2008 and December 2009 and determine etiologic viral agents of AD. Materials and Methods: Retrospective study of patients aged 0-16 years admitted between January 2008 and December 2009. Stool specimens were analyzed by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) for viral agents (Rotavirus and Adenovirus). Results: We studied 114 patients during 2 years. Rotavirus was detected in 56 cases. Adenovirus was detected in 4 cases. The mean age was 10 months. The AD was more frequent during winter months. The prevalence of AD was equivalent in both genders. The mean hospital stay was shorter in the last year. Conclusion: Acute diarrhea is an important cause of admission in our departament and Rotavirus is an important etiological agent of acute diarrhea in children. Preventive strategies must be implemented in our community.