Optimal Treatment of Campylobacter Dysentery

Abstract

A 9 day old Caucasian female infant was admitted to a general pediatric floor from an outside hospital for a 23 hour observation and treatment of dehydration associated with severe diarrhea. Parents reported frequent stools for 4 days prior to admission with possible hematochezia 1 day prior to admission. Stools were occurring every 15 to 20 minutes at times. No vomiting or fever accompanied the diarrheal episodes. The child’s formula was changed 3 days prior to admission with no improvement in symptoms. Her birth history included an uncomplicated vaginal delivery at 38 weeks, with a birth weight of 2.93 kg. No medical problems or abnormalities had been identified prior to this hospital admission. She had no previous contact with sick individuals or exposure to pets. The patient’s mother has alpha I antitrypsin deficiency, but no other pertinent family history was identified. On admission, the patient weighed 2.77 kg and the physical exam revealed soft and flat fontanelles, and pink, wet oral mucosa. Bowel sounds were present throughout and the abdomen was soft and non-distended. Stools were sent to the lab for culture and sensitivity. The