Campylobacter infections
Campylobacter infections, also known as campylobacteriosis, are acute bacterial infections primarily affecting the gastrointestinal system. Caused mainly by consuming contaminated food or water, or through contact with infected feces, these infections commonly manifest through symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, headache, and vomiting. Most infections are caused by specific species, including Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli. Symptoms typically last from two to five days, with full recovery expected within one to two weeks.
While many cases resolve spontaneously, severe instances, particularly in vulnerable populations like young children or those with weakened immune systems, may require antibiotic treatment. Prevention strategies emphasize good hygiene practices, such as thorough handwashing and safe food handling. Notably, Campylobacter infections have been on the rise globally, posing significant health risks, particularly in developing countries where they are a leading cause of mortality in young children. Understanding these infections is crucial for effective prevention and management.
Campylobacter infections
ALSO KNOWN AS: Campylobacteriosis, food poisoning
ANATOMY OR SYSTEM AFFECTED: Abdomen, gastrointestinal system, intestines, stomach
DEFINITION: An acute disease, often spontaneously resolving, caused by bacterial infection; sometimes called food poisoning.
CAUSES: Contaminated food or water, contact with infected feces
SYMPTOMS: Cramps, diarrhea, fever, headache, vomiting
DURATION: Symptoms last two to five days; full recovery within a week to ten days
TREATMENTS: Often resolves on its own; may be treated with antibiotics
Causes and Symptoms
Campylobacter refers to a class of bacteria of which there are sixteen species and six subspecies. The most common types related to human disease are Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli,Campylobacter laridis, and Campylobacter upsaliensis.
Infection with Campylobacter is one of the most common causes of problems. It usually results from contact with contaminated food or water, though the bacteria may be transmitted through fecal matter, such as from changing diapers for an infected child. These bacteria exist in the digestive system of many animals, and domestic animals or pets can transmit the bacteria through feces. Usually, babies (under one year of age), teens, and young adults are affected.
These bacteria attack the lining of the intestines, and infection causes symptoms such as diarrhea, cramps, fever, headache, or vomiting. In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause bacteremia, which needs to be treated with antibiotics. Untreated Campylobacter infections may also cause hepatitis, pancreatitis, or in pregnant women. These bacteria have also been linked to and Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder. To make a definitive diagnosis, a doctor may send a to a laboratory for analysis.
Treatment and Therapy
Often, Campylobacter infection will spontaneously resolve. If the patient is a young child or someone who is immunocompromised, or if the symptoms are severe and do not go away, then antibiotics may be prescribed. If the symptoms are relatively mild, then treatment involves drinking plenty of fluids and monitoring the patient for signs of dehydration. Good handwashing and the careful handling of raw foods (particularly poultry), drinking water, and nonhomogenized milk can help prevent future bouts with this bacterial infection.
Perspective and Prospects
For unknown reasons, cases of Campylobacter infections have been increasing, both in the developed and in the developing world. These infections are a major cause of death in children under age two in developing countries.
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