Infecciones por Clostridioides difficile en pediatría. La visión del laboratorio a partir del diagnóstico microbiológico / Clostridioides difficile infections in pediatrics. The view of the laboratory based on microbiological diagnosis

La infección por Clostridioides difficile (ICD) es la principal responsable de diarreas nosocomiales en adultos. En los últimos años se registró un aumento en la incidencia de la ICD en la población adulta que, en cambio, no fue bien caracterizado en pediatría. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar los datos resultantes del diagnóstico microbiológico de ICD en el Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan". Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo observacional descriptivo que abarcó desde el 01/01/2018 hasta el 31/12/2021. El diagnóstico se realizó mediante enzimoinmunoensayo para glutamato deshidrogenasa (GDH) y toxinas en materia fecal (MF). Cuando sólo se detectó GDH, se realizó un cultivo toxigénico (CT) de la MF para la detección de toxinas in vitro. Se registraron: edad, sexo y procedencia de los pacientes y recurrencias de las ICD. Se efectuaron estudios de sensibilidad de 387 cepas de C. difficile a metronidazol (MTZ) y vancomicina (VAN). Resultados: en 6632 muestras (1764 pacientes) se registraron 649 estudios positivos (9,8%) (139 pacientes), la mayoría correspondieron a pacientes internados en áreas no críticas. Edad promedio: 7 años (7 ± 4,7). Sexo: 55% masculino. Recurrencias: 62 (45%). Positivos detectados mediante CT: 43%. Sensibilidad antibiótica: 100% a MTZ y 99,7% a VAN. Conclusión: Nuestra población presenta un bajo porcentaje de positividad. Se destaca el rendimiento del CT que permitió el diagnóstico de más de un tercio de los casos. MTZ y VANCO tuvieron excelente actividad in vitro frente a C. difficile (AU)

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is the main cause of nosocomial diarrhea in adults. In recent years there has been an increase in the incidence of CDI in the adult population; however, CDI has not been well characterized in pediatrics. The aim of this study was to analyze the data resulting from the microbiological diagnosis of CDI at Hospital de Pediatría Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan. Materials and methods: a retrospective, observational and descriptive study was conducted from 01/01/2018 to 12/31/2021. Diagnosis was made using enzyme immunoassay for glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and toxins in stools. When only GDH was detected, toxigenic culture (TC) of stools was performed for in vitro toxin detection. The age, sex and origin of patients and CDI recurrences were recorded. Sensitivity studies of 387 strains of C. difficile to metronidazole (MTZ) and vancomycin (VAN) were performed. Results: In 6,632 samples (1,764 patients), 649 positive results (9.8%) were recorded (139 patients), most of which corresponded to patients hospitalized in noncritical areas. Mean age: 7 years (7 ± 4.7). Sex: 55% male. Recurrences: 62 (45%). TC-positive results: 43%. Antibiotic sensitivity: 100% to MTZ and 99.7% to VAN. Conclusion: A low percentage of positivity was found in our population. The performance of TC was outstanding, allowing for the diagnosis of more than one third of the cases. MTZ and VANCO had excellent in vitro activity against C. difficile (AU)

Principales agentes etiológicos de las enfermedades diarreicas agudas infantiles en Chimborazo, Ecuador / Main etiological agents of childhood acute diarrheal diseases in Chimborazo, Ecuador

Las enfermedades diarreicas constituyen la principal causa de morbimortalidad en niños menores de cinco años, con alrededor de 1.700 millones de casos y 1,5 millones de muertes por año a nivel mundial. Para el año 2010, en la Sierra de Ecuador se registró un alto porcentaje de infantes fallecidos a causa de enfermedades diarreicas agudas (EDA), incluyendo la provincia de Chimborazo; mientras que, para el año 2016, se registraron en Ecuador 590.523 casos de EDA, siendo más afectados los niños de sectores de mayor pobreza. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en pacientes pediátricos con episodios diarreicos que acudieron a centros de salud de los cantones rurales de la provincia Chimborazo. Se realizó análisis coprológico y coproparasitológico en 258 muestras; se identificaron bacterias enteropatógenas mediante pruebas bioquímicas y de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana, se realizó diagnóstico parasitológico mediante análisis macroscópico y microscópico y para detección de virus se emplearon pruebas inmunológicas. Se observó un mayor número de casos de EDA en los cantones Alausí (50%) y Chunchi (19%). De los pacientes con EDA, los rotavirus son el principal agente etiológico aislado (24,8%), seguido por Shigella (17,8%); mientras que Giardia intestinalis (8,5%) y Salmonella (10,1%) son los microorganismos que se aislaron con menor frecuencia en las muestras. Los resultados del presente estudio, permiten tener un panorama etiológico de las EDA en la provincia de Chimborazo y contribuir en la vigilancia epidemiológica, ejecución de programas sanitarios y de vacunación, para disminuir la vulnerabilidad de la población infantil ante dichas infecciones(AU)

Diarrheal diseases are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in children under five years of age, with around 1.7 billion cases and 1.5 million deaths per year worldwide. For the year 2010, in the Sierra de Ecuador a high percentage of infants died due to acute diarrheal diseases (ADD), including the province of Chimborazo; while, for the year 2016, 590,523 cases of ADD were registered in Ecuador, with children from the poorest sectors being more affected. A descriptive study was carried out in pediatric patients with diarrheal episodes who attended health centers in the rural cantons of Chimborazo province. Coprological and coproparasitological analysis was performed on 258 samples; Enteropathogenic bacteria were identified by biochemical and antimicrobial susceptibility tests, a parasitological diagnosis was made by macroscopic and microscopic analysis, and immunological tests were used to detect viruses. A greater number of ADD cases was observed in the Alausí (50%) and Chunchi (19%) cantons. Of patients with ADD, rotaviruses are the main etiological agent isolated (24.8%), followed by Shigella (17.8%); while Giardia intestinalis (8.5%) and Salmonella (10.1%) are the microorganisms that were isolated less frequently in the samples. The results of this study allow us to have an etiological panorama of EDA in the province of Chimborazo and contribute to epidemiological surveillance, execution of health and vaccination programs, to reduce the vulnerability of the child population to these infections(AU)

Aceptabilidad de un atole fortificado con 21 micronutrientes e impacto en la salud y nutrición de niños menores de 6 años de edad en la ciudad de guatemala / Acceptability of a 21 micronutrient-fortified atole and its impact on health and nutrition in children under 6 years of age from guatemala city

Con el objetivo de reducir la desnutrición crónica de niños que asisten 6 jardines infantiles en la Ciudad de Guatemala, se utilizó una bebida a base de soya y maíz como vehículo para el aporte de 21 micronutrientes con niveles elevados de hierro (12mg) y zinc (9mg) y se ofreció a 747 niños entre los 6 meses y 6 años. Se realizó seguimiento antropométrico cada 3m, Hb cada 6m y se registró el número de episodios de enfermedad diarreica aguda e infección respiratoria aguda a lo largo de la intervención. Un ANOVA longitudinal de medidas repetidas demostró que la media de la Hb mejoró de manera significativa a los 6 y 12m de recibir la bebida fortificada (11,26, 11,64, y 11,89g/dL, respectivamente), p<0,01; la prevalencia de anemia disminuyó 44,2% después de 12m, p<0,01; la media del puntaje z de talla para la edad también mejoró, -1,25 (0m) y -1,07 (12m), p<0.01; la prevalencia de retardo del crecimiento disminuyó 25% a los 12m. Se observó una disminución significativa en la prevalencia de infección respiratoria aguda y no se observaron cambios en la prevalencia de diarrea. Un estudio de aceptabilidad demostró que los niños consumen más del 98% del producto. Los resultados sugieren que la intervención con el atole fortificado mejora el estado nutricional y de salud de los niños. El producto es aceptado por los niños y el personal de los jardines infantiles(AU)

With the aim to reduce chronic undernutrition in children that attended 6 Guatemala City daycare centers, a corn and soy-based beverage was used as a vehicle to provide 21 micronutrients and high concentrations of iron (12mg) and zinc (9 mg) and was provided to747 children aged 6 to 72 months. Children were followed for anthropometry every 3m, hemoglobin every 6m, and episodes of acute diarrhea and respiratory tract infections were registered throughout the intervention. A longitudinal Repeated Measures ANOVA demonstrated that mean hemoglobin significantly improved at 6 and 12m of receiving the beverage (11.26, 11.64, and 11.89g/dL, respectively), p<0.01; the prevalence of anemia decreased by 44.2% after 12m, p<0.01; mean height-for-age z score improved from -1.25 (0m) to -1.07 (12m), p<0.01; the prevalence of stunting decreased by 25% after 12m. A significant decrease in the prevalence of acute respiratory infection was observed. No changes were observed in the prevalence of diarrhea. Moreover, an acceptability study showed that children consumed more than 98% of the atole. These results suggest that this nutrition intervention with the fortified atole improves the health and nutritional status of children. The product is widely accepted by the children and staff at the nurseries(AU)

Eosinophilic colitis in infants / Colite eosinofílica em lactentes

OBJECTIVE: To review the literature for clinical data on infants with allergic or eosinophilic colitis. DATA SOURCE: MEDLINE search of all indexes was performed using the words ''colitis or procto-colitis and eosinophilic'' or ''colitis or proctocolitis and allergic'' between 1966 and February of 2013. All articles that described patients' characteristics were selected. DATA SYNTHESIS: A total of 770 articles were identified, of which 32 met the inclusion criteria. The 32 articles included a total of 314 infants. According to the available information, 61.6% of infants were male and 78.6% were younger than 6 months. Of the 314 patients, 49.0% were fed exclusively breast milk, 44.2% received cow's milk protein, and 6.8% received soy protein. Diarrheal stools were described in 28.3% of patients. Eosinophilia was found in 43.8% (115/263) of infants. Colonic or rectal biopsy showed infiltration by eosinophils (between 5 and 25 perhigh-power field) in 89.3% (236/264) of patients. Most patients showed improvement with theremoval of the protein in cow's milk from their diet or the mother's diet. Allergy challenge tests with cow's milk protein were cited by 12 of the 32 articles (66 patients). CONCLUSIONS: Eosinophilic colitis occurs predominantly in the first six months of life and in males. Allergy to cow's milk was considered the main cause of eosinophilic colitis. Exclusion of cow'smilk from the diet of the lactating mother or from the infant's diet is generally an effective therapeutic measure. .

OBJETIVO: Revisão da literatura sobre dados clínicos de lactentes com colite eosinofílica oualérgica. FONTE DOS DADOS: Pesquisa no Medline de todas as indexações com as palavras ''colitis or proc-tocolitis and eosinophilic'' ou ''colitis or proctocolitis and allergic'' entre 1966 e fevereiro de 2013. Foram selecionados todos os artigos que descreviam as características dos pacientes. SÍNTESE DOS DADOS: Foram identificados 770 artigos dos quais 32 preenchiam os critérios de inclusão. Os 32 artigos incluíram o total de 314 lactentes. Conforme as informações disponíveis, 61,6% dos lactentes eram do sexo masculino e 78,6% apresentavam idade inferior a 6 meses. Dos 314 pacientes, 49,0% encontrava-se em aleitamento natural exclusivo, 44,2% recebiam proteína do leite de vaca e 6,8% proteína da soja. Fezes diarreicas foram descritas em 28,3% dos pacientes. Eosinofilia foi encontrada em 43,8% (115/263) dos lactentes. Biópsia retal ou colônica mostrou infiltração por eosinófilos (entre 5 e 25 por campo de grande aumento) em 89,3% (236/264) dos pacientes. A maioria dos pacientes apresentou melhora com a retirada da proteína do leite de vaca da sua dieta ou das suas mães. Teste de desencadeamento com proteína do leite de vaca foi citado em 12 dos 32 artigos (66 pacientes). CONCLUSÕES: Colite eosinofílica ocorre predominantemente nos primeiros seis meses de vida e no sexo masculino. Alergia ao leite de vaca foi considerada a principal causa de colite eosinofílica. Dieta de exclusão do leite de vaca da mãe lactante ou da dieta do lactente é uma medidate rapêutica geralmente eficaz. .

Correlación entre las características clínicas y el tipo de agente enteropatógeno bacteriano en menores de 5 años con diarrea aguda, atendidos en el Hospital de Emergencias Pediátricas durante el año 2013 / Correlation between clinical characteristics and the type of agent bacterial enteropathogens in children less than 5 years with acute diarrhea attended at the Hospital of Pediatric Emergency in 2013

Determinar la correlación entre las características clínicas y el tipo de agente enteropatógeno bacteriano en menores de 5 años con diarrea aguda infecciosa atendidos en el Hospital de Emergencias Pediátricas durante el año 2013. Metodología: El estudio es observacional, analítico comparativo, retrospectivo y transversal. Se realizó la investigación sobre la muestra de 362 niños menores de 5 años con diagnóstico de Diarrea Aguda. Para relacionar las variables se utilizó la prueba Chi-cuadrado. Resultados: De las características generales de los pacientes pediátricos en estudio, la edad promedio fue 30.02±21.7 meses (2 años y medio), en su mayoría masculino (55.5 por ciento), gran parte vive en el distrito de San Juan de Lurigancho, con un nivel socioeconómico medio y con mayor frecuencia estos cuadros diarreicos ocurren en primavera. Con respecto a las características nutricionales, el peso actual de los pacientes menores de 5 años con diarrea aguda fue de 12.8±8.12 kg en promedio. Además, sólo el 3.6 por ciento manifestó que su alimentación fue adecuada. Las características sintomatológicas más frecuentes que presentaron los menores fueron fiebre (68.8 por ciento), palidez (61 por ciento), dolor abdominal (54.1 por ciento) y vómito (46.4 por ciento); y los menos frecuentes fueron disentería y convulsiones. El grado de deshidratación fue mayormente leve (67.1 por ciento). En cuanto al tiempo de evolución de la diarrea este fue de 47.7±52.7 horas, el promedio de deposiciones fue de 3.9 veces al día y el promedio de vómitos fue 2.8 veces al día. Entre los principales enteropatógenos responsables de la diarrea aguda en niños menores de 5 años fueron Campylobacter (57.5 por ciento) y Shigella (34.3 por ciento), y en menor porcentaje el E. Coli y la Salmonella. Además, el dolor abdominal, la fiebre, el vómito los escalofríos y el grado de deshidratación estuvieron relacionados con algún tipo de bacteria (p<0.05). Por otro lado, la mayoría de pacientes...

To determine the correlation between clinical characteristics and the type of bacterial enteropathogen in children younger than 5 years with acute infectious diarrhea treated at the Pediatric Emergency Hospital during 2013. Methodology: Observational, comparative, retrospective, analytical, transversal study. The sample was 362 children younger than 5 years diagnosed with Acute Diarrhea. To relate the variables, the chi-square test was used. Results: The general characteristics of pediatric patients studied were: the mean age was 30.02±21.7 months (2 1/2 years), mostly male (55.5 per cent), Most live in the district of San Juan de Lurigancho, with middle socioeconomic level and most often these diarrheas occur in spring. Regarding the nutritional characteristics, current weight of patients younger than 5 years with acute diarrhea was 12.8 ± 8.12 kg on average. Furthermore, only 3.6 per cent said that their food was adequate. The most frequent symptomatology characteristics that children had were fever (68.8 per cent), pallor (61 per cent), abdominal pain (54.1 per cent) and vomiting (46.4 per cent); and least frequent were dysentery and seizures. The degree of dehydration was mostly mild (67.1 per cent). Regarding the duration of the diarrhea was 47.7±52.7 hours, the average deposition was 3.9 times per day and the average of vomiting was 2.8 times a day. The main enteropathogens responsible for acute diarrhea in children younger than 5 years were Campylobacter (57.5 per cent) and Shigella (34.3 per cent) and in the lowest percentage E. Coli and Salmonella. In addition, abdominal pain, fever, chills, vomiting and degree of dehydration were related to some type of bacteria (p<0.05). Moreover, the majority of patients (51.9 per cent) had more than 100 fecal leukocytes per field; also the stool was positive in 98.9 per cent of patients. In addition, fecal leukocytes per field were related to some kind of enteropathogenic bacteria (p<0.001)...

Conocimiento materno sobre estrategias básicas de prevención en enfermedad diarreica aguda / Maternal knowledge of basic prevention strategies in acute diarrheal disease

El impacto socioeconómico y la mortalidad que producen la enfermedad diarreica aguda (EDA) ha sido preocupación delas organizaciones internacionales. La prevención en EDA agrupa estrategias básicas de saneamiento ambiental y atención primaria. Unasolución es promover la educación en la población de riesgo. Estimar el conocimiento materno sobre estrategias primarias deprevención de diarrea. Se realizó un estudio observacional de corte transversal, tipo encuesta a madres que acuden a losservicios de pediatría del Instituto Autónomo Hospital Universitario de Los Andes durante el lapso noviembre – marzo 2012. Se utilizóChi cuadrado de Pearson (p <0,05) para el análisis estadístico. Resultados Se incluyeron 111 madres: 50,4% tenían entre 20 y 35 añosde edad, 40,6% provenientes del distrito sanitario Mérida, de estratos sociales Graffar IV-V; 33.3% tenían enseñanza secundaria. Sinembargo, solo 14,4% tuvo conocimiento adecuado sobre estrategias primarias de prevención en diarrea, 85% con desconocimiento de laexistencia de la vacuna antirotavirus. Solo 28% utiliza suero oral. Se estableció asociación significativa entre bajo nivel de instrucciónmaterna y nivel socioeconómico, con pobre conocimiento en prevención en EDA (p=0,002). El desconocimiento maternode estrategias de prevención en EDA tuvo relación directa con bajos niveles de instrucción materna y nivel socioeconómico; por ello lascampañas de educación deben dirigirse a estos grupos. Alimentación, rehidratación oral y vacunas son tópicos a reforzar. El saneamientoy la promoción de la higiene con participación de la comunidad pueden llevar a una reducción significativa de la incidencia de diarreaen niños

Socioeconomic impact and mortality caused by acute diarrheal disease (ADD) has been a concern of international organizations. One solution is to promote education in the population at risk. ADD prevention basic strategies include measures such as hand washing, food hygiene, proper disposal of excreta and vaccination. To determine maternal knowledge in primary strategies for preventing diarrhea. This is a cross-sectional observational survey study that included mothers attending pediatric services at the Instituto Autónomo Hospital Universitario de Los Andes, November - March 2012. Pearson Chi-square was utilized (p < 0,05) for statistical analysis. 111 mothers were included, 50.4% were between 20 - 35 years of age; 40.6% were from the sanitary district of Merida and were classified as social strata Graffar IV-V; 33.3% had high school education. However, only 14.4% had adequate knowledge in regard to strategies in primary prevention in diarrhea, with lack of knowledge in 85% of the availability of the vaccine anti-rotavirus. Only 28% had employed oral hydration solutions. A significant association between low maternal education level and socioeconomic level with poor knowledge in prevention in ADD was found (p = 0.002). Lackof maternal knowledge of prevention in ADD strategies is in direct relation with low level of maternal education and socio-economic level, which emphasizes the importance of educational campaigns directed to these groups. Food, oral rehydration and vaccines are topics to reinforce. Sanitation and promoting hygiene with community participation may lead to a significant reduction of the incidence of diarrhea in children

Frequência de Escherichia coli e sua sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos em menores de cinco anos hospitalizados por diarreia aguda / The frequency of Escherichia coli and its sensitivity to antimicrobials in children aged under five years admitted to hospital for treatment of acute diarrhea

Determinar a frequência de Escherichia coli diarreiogênica e sua sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos em menores de cinco anos hospitalizados por diarreia aguda. MÉTODOS: estudo prospectivo tipo corte transversal realizado no Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira, entre janeiro de 2010 e fevereiro de 2011. Foram excluídas as crianças com diagnóstico de imunodeficiência ou usando antimicrobianos. Para cada paciente foi feito uma única coleta de swab retal nas primeiras 24 horas de internação. Os patógenos foram identificados na coprocultura e sorotipagem. Os antibiogramas foram obtidos por disco-difusão. RESULTADOS: 140 crianças foram arroladas, em sua maioria provinham de famílias de baixa renda da Região Metropolitana do Recife. Foram isolados 99 microorganismos: 9 (6,4 por cento) E. coli enteropatogênica (EPEC) e 4 (2,9 por cento) E. coli enteroinvasora (EIEC) e 80 (57,1 por cento) outras E.coli não EPEC, não EIEC, 3 (2,1 por cento) Shigella spp e 3 (2,1 por cento) Salmonella spp. O perfil de sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos demonstrou níveis elevados de resistência à ampicilina e sulfametoxazol-trimetoprima. CONCLUSÕES: a baixa frequência de EPEC observada pode estar associada às condições de saneamento básico favoráveis apresentadas pelos pacientes do estudo. A análise local do perfil da sensibilidade da E. coli aos antimicrobianos reforça a recomendação da Organização Mundial de Saúde para o uso racional dessas drogas visando prevenção da resistência bacteriana...

To determine the frequency of diarrheic Escherichia coli and its sensitivity to antimicrobials in children aged under five years admitted to hospital for treatment of acute diarrhea. METHODS: a prospective cross-sectional study was carried out at the Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira, between January 2010 and February 2011. Children were excluded if they had been diagnosed as immunodeficient or were using antimicrobials. A single rectal swab was taken from each patient during the first 24 hours of hospitalization. The pathogens were identified in the coproculture and serotyping. Antibiograms were obtained using disc-diffusion. RESULTS: 140 children were recruited. Most were from low-income families in the Metropolitan Region of Recife. Ninety-nine micro-organisms were isolated: 9 (6.4 percent) enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and 4 (2.9 percent) enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC) and 80 (57.1 percent) other E.coli that are neither EPEC nor EIEC, 3 (2.1 percent) Shigella spp and 3 (2.1 percent) Salmonella spp. The profile of sensitivity to antimicrobials showed high levels to resistance to ampicillin and sulfametho-xazol-trimetropime. CONCLUSIONS: the low frequency of EPEC found may be associated with basic sanitary conditions among the patients in the study. The local analysis of the profile of sensitivity of E. coli to antimicrobials corroborates the World Health Organization recommendation that these drugs be used prudently to ensure prevention of resistance in bacteria...

Síndrome de Pearson: Reporte de un caso / Pearson syndrome: Case report

Entre las etiologías de anemias en la infancia, las citopatías mitocondriales son poco frecuentes. El síndrome de Pearson se diagnostica principalmente durante etapas iniciales de la vida y es caracterizado por anemia sideroblástica refractaria con vacuolización de células progenitoras en la médula ósea, disfunción del páncreas exocrino y variables alteraciones neurológicas, hepáticas, renales y endocrinas. En el siguiente informe reportamos un nuevo caso de lactante mayor femenino de 14 meses de edad, evaluada de forma multicéntrica con diagnostico clínico y molecular de síndrome de Pearson, con la deleción común de 4.977 pares de bases del ADN mitocondrial. Esta entidad ha sido asociada a diversos fenotipos dentro del amplio espectro clínico de las enfermedades mitocondriales.

Among the etiologies of anemia in the infancy, the mitochondrial cytopathies are infrequent. Pearson syndrome is diagnosed principally during the initial stages of life and it is characterized by refractory sideroblastic anemia with vacuolization of marrow progenitor cells, exocrine pancreatic dysfunction and variable neurologic, hepatic, renal and endocrine failures. We report the case of a 14 month-old girl evaluated by a multicentric study, with clinic and molecular diagnosis of Pearson syndrome, with the 4,977-base pair common deletion of mitochondrial DNA. This entity has been associated to diverse phenotypes within the broad clinical spectrum of mitochondrial disease.

Escherichia coli enteroagregativa como agente provocador de diarreia persistente: modelo experimental utilizando microscopia óptica de luz / Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli as a cause of persistent diarrhea: an experimental model using light microscopy

OBJETIVO: Avaliar interações de amostras de Escherichia coli enteroagregativa com tecido intestinal humano, a fim de documentar potenciais alterações em diferentes regiões do trato digestivo. MÉTODOS: Amostras de Escherichia coli enteroagregativa isoladas das fezes de crianças com diarreia persistente e a amostra protótipo 042, isolada de uma criança com diarreia em Lima, no Peru (controle positivo), foram analisadas por microscopia óptica de luz após semeadura em cultura de orgão in vitro de fragmentos de mucosa ileal e colônica. Foram analisadas as interações entre as diferentes cepas de Escherichia coli enteroagregativa e as mucosas ileal e colônica. RESULTADOS: A análise por microscopia óptica de luz indicou associação destes micro-organismos com o epitélio, provocando alterações. As cepas estudadas aderiram a ambas as regiões avaliadas (intestino delgado distal e grosso) e causaram alterações, especialmente naquelas áreas onde interagiram diretamente com o epitélio. No íleo, algumas regiões mostraram internalização secundária. CONCLUSÕES: Esses agentes podem causar diarreia persistente por meio de alterações no intestino delgado, no qual ocorrem as funções digestivo-absortivas. As lesões inflamatórias descritas na mucosa colônica poderiam explicar a colite mostrada em algumas crianças infectadas por Escherichia coli enteroagregativa.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the interactions of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains with small and large intestinal mucosa, in order to detect potential alterations in both regions of the digestive tract. METHODS: Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains, isolated from stools of infants with persistent diarrhea and the prototype strain 042 (O44:H18), isolated from a child with diarrhea in Lima, Peru (positive control), were analised by light microscopy after in vitro organ culture assay of ileal and colonic mucosa. The interactions between the different enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains and the ileal and colonic mucosa were analysed. RESULTS: Light microscopy analysis suggested an association of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains with the epithelium, inducing alterations. These bacteria adhered to both small and large bowel mucosa. The enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains induced alterations in those areas where they were directly interacting with the epithelium. In the ileum, some areas showed a secondary internalization. CONCLUSIONS: The enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains could cause persistent diarrhea inducing alterations in the small intestinal structures, where the digestive-absorptive functions take place. Inflammatory lesions observed in colons could justify the colitis described in some children infected by enteroaggregative Escherichia coli.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar interacciones de muestras de Escherichia coli enteroagregativa (EAEC) con tejido intestinal humano, a fin de documentar potenciales alteraciones en distintas regiones del tracto digestivo (intestino delgado distal e intestino grueso) y definir, con eso, su rol en la persistencia del proceso diarreico. MÉTODOS: Muestras de EAEC aislada de las heces de niños con diarrea persistente y la muestra prototipo 042, aislada de un niño con diarrea en Lima, Perú (control positivo) fueron analizadas por microscopía óptica de luz (ML) después de siembra en cultura de órgano in vitro de fragmentos de mucosa ileal y del colon. Fueron analizadas las interacciones entra las distintas cepas de EAEC y las mucosas ileal y del colon. RESULTADOS: El análisis por ML indicó asociación de estos microorganismos con el epitelio, provocando alteraciones. Las cepas estudiadas adhirieron a ambas regiones evaluadas: intestino delgado distal y grueso y causaron alteraciones, especialmente en aquellas áreas donde interactuaron directamente con el epitelio. En el íleo, algunas regiones mostraron internalización secundaria. CONCLUSIÓN: Estos agentes pueden causar diarrea persistente mediante alteraciones en el intestino delgado, donde ocurren las funciones digestivo-absortibas. Las lesiones inflamatorias descritas en la mucosa del colon podrían explicar la colitis descrita en algunos niños infectados por EAEC.

Zinc and childhood diseases

Zinc is an essential component of various enzyme molecules, other proteins and bio-membranes. Zinc deficiency is shown to be one of the leading causes of illness and disease in low-income countries. Zinc is necessary for the normal function of the immune system. Zinc supplementation decreases the duration and severity of acute diarrhea and hastens the recovery of persistent diarrhea. It prevents diarrhea, pneumonia and malaria. Zinc supplement improves growth especially height and weight. It decreases child mortality mainly form diarrhea and pneumonia

Periorificial and acral dermatitis in a newborn having milk intolerence.

A 2-week-old infant born at 36-week gestation developed diarrhea and metabolic acidosis when he was put on formula feeding. He was treated for sepsis and was screened for metabolic diseases. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid cultures were clear. The diarrhea and metabolic acidosis settled but recurred when formula feeding was resumed. He developed a florid erythematous rash involving the palms, feet, perioral and perineal regions. Zinc deficiency was confirmed and zinc replacement resulted in prompt resolution of the skin rash. The patient was put on Pepti-Junior and remained well. This case illustrates that zinc deficiency must be sought and treated in an infant with a typical rash involving the palms, feet and body orifices.

Mortalidad por enfermedad diarreica en menores, antes y después de la introducción de la vacuna contra el rotavirus / Analysis of the mortality due to diarrhea in younger children, before and after the introduction of rotavirus vaccine

Objetivo. Analizar la mortalidad por diarrea en menores de cinco años en México, antes y después de la vacunación contra el rotavirus. Material y métodos. Se compararon defunciones y mortalidad por diarrea mediante diferencias porcentuales anuales por grupo etario, antes (2000-2005) y después (2006-2007) de la vacunación. Resultados. Entre 2000 y 2007 la mortalidad por diarrea disminuyó 42%. En los estados con vacunación, la mortalidad se redujo 15.8 y 27.7% en menores de uno y de uno a cuatro años, respectivamente, en el periodo de 2006 a 2007. Discusión. La reducción observada en la mortalidad por diarrea en menores de cinco años después de 2005 puede atribuirse en parte a la vacunación contra el rotavirus.

Objective. To analyze the mortality due to acute diarrhea in children younger than five years old, before and after the introduction of rotavirus vaccine in Mexico. Material and Methods. Number of deaths and mortality rates due to acute diarrhea were compared by children’s age and states’ vaccine status using annual percentage differences before (2000-2005) and after (2006-2007) the introduction of the HRV. Results. From 2000-2007, deaths due to acute diarrhea in children under five years of age dropped 42%. In those states that received the HRV early in 2006, diarrhea mortality decreased between 2006-2007 15.8% in children younger than one year old and 22.7% in children 1-4 years old. Discussion. The observed reduction in mortality due to acute diarrhea in children under five years of age after 2005 can be, in part, attributed to the HRV.

Composición de las soluciones caseras usadas en ninos con diarrea sin deshidratación: Mérida-Venezuela: [revisión] / Composition of home made solutions used in children with diarrhea without dehydration: [review]

La diarrea es una causa principal de morbi-mortalidad en niños y el uso de la terapia de rehidratación oral (uso de suero oral más líquidos caseros) puede prevenir la deshidratación. Identificar las soluciones caseras utilizadas en los niños con diarrea sin deshidratación, analizar su composición bioquímica y proponer las más adecuadas. Se entrevistaron 167 madres, en consultas pediátricas, seleccionadas al azar, durante los años 2004-2006, en Mérida-Venezuela; es un estudio epidemiológico, analítico, prospectivo y concurrente. Se identificaron cinco grupos de soluciones caseras: agua de arroz, sopa de plátano, sopa de cambur (banana), infusiones de hierbas y jugos de frutas. El análisis bioquímico se realizó mediante un pH metro, espectroscopia de absorción atómica (Na y K), argentometría (Cl), osmómetro (osmolaridad), glucosa peroxidasa (glucosa), hidrovolumetría por neutralización (bicarbonato) y bandas de absorción (citrato), procesadas en la Facultad de Ciencias de la Universidad de Los Andes. Todas las soluciones estudiadas tienen un pH ácido, con excepción del suero casero con bicarbonato. las concentraciones de electrolitos fueron mínimas en el agua de arroz, las infusiones de hierbas y los jugos de frutas, mientras que fueron más elevadas en las sopas de plátano y banana. (Na y Cl más elevado). Las osmolaridad fue baja en todas las soluciones y alta en los jugos de frutas. Ninguna de las soluciones reúne las concentraciones planteadas por la OMS, aunque en el niño con diarrea sin deshidratación la sopas de plátano y banana pueden ser utilizadas debido a la buena aceptación y al bajo costo. No se recomiendan los jugos de fruta por su alta osmolaridad.

Diarrhoea continues to be one the main causes of morbidity-mortality in latin american countries due to dehydration. this is why the most important strategy to avoid deaths due to dehydration is oral rehydration therapy (oral rehydration solution plus homemade solutions) which may vary according to each region of the country. To identify the most frequently used homemade solutions for preventing dehydration in children with acute diarrhoea within the community in Mérida, Venezuela; to analyze the biochemical composition of these solutions; to propose the use of the most adequate ones. By means o an epidemiological, analytical, prospective and concurrent study 167 inquiries were performed to mothers who sought medical help in the main assistance centers of the city. these mothers were selected randomly during 2004-2006. five groups of homemade solutions were identified: rice water (golden rice in esther grain or flour), plantain soup with or without chicken, banana soup, herbal infusions and fruit juices. Biochemical analysis was performed by means of: ohmmeters (pH), spectroscopy of atomic absorption (Na and K), argentometry (Cl), osmometer (osmolarity), glucose peroxidase (glucose), hidrovolumetry by neutralization (bicarbonate) and absorption bands (citrate) processed at the Science Faculty of the Universidad de Los Andes. All the homemade liquids have an acidic pH, except solutions with added bicarbonate. electrolytes concentrations were minimum except for the plantain and banana soups, which have a higher sodium and chloride concentration. The osmolarity of most solutions was low, with exception of fruit juices (orange and guava). Conclusions: none of the homemade solutions meet the requirements established by the World Health Organization as an ideal rehydration solution. However, plantain and banana soup may be used in children with diarrhea without dehydration due to their high availability.

Efecto de la educación sobre EDAS, impartido por el personal de salud a madres de niños menores de 5 años del Cantón Ramadas - Provincia Tapacarí (Tercer trimestre del 2008) / Effect of education on EDAS, provided by health personnel to mothers of children under 5 years of Guangzhou Ramadas - Tapacarí Province (third quarter of 2008)

La enfermedad diarreica aguda (EDAS) es la principal causa de morbi-mortalidad en niños menores de 5 años, es un problema que con mayor evidencia expresa las bajas condiciones de vida de la población junto a la crisis económica, déficit de servicios de saneamiento básico, malas prácticas de higiene, alimentación inadecuada y la deficiente promoción de los servicios de salud. El objetivo de esta investigación es conocer el efecto de la educación sobre (EDAS) en las madres de niños menores de 5 años. La investigación se realizó desde el enfoque cuantitativo con una muestra de 121 madres, las cuales representan el 100%. Para la recolección de datos se empleó el cuestionario mediante entrevista personal. Los resultados muestran que el 93% de las madres recibieron educación sobre (EDAS) por el personal de salud, de las cuales el 33% logró realizar un diagnóstico precoz y para tratarlas, el 14% realizó uso del suero de rehidratación oral, el 33% preparó remedios caseros y el 40% acudió al Centro de Salud. Así mismo, se identificó que el efecto de las actividades educativas no muestra resultados favorables; las madres todavía desconocen el empleo de medidas de prevención, lo cual se refleja en el aumento de casos de (EDAS) en menores de cinco años en el cantón de Ramadas de la provincia de Tapacarí del departamento de Cochabamba

Prevalencia de norovirus como agente etiológico de gastroenteritis en niños venezolanos / Prevalence of norovirus like gastroenteritis etiologic agent in venezuelan children

Las gastroenteritis representan una causa importante de morbimortalidad en el mundo y en Venezuela. Su etioligía en infantes es principalmente viral, encontrando a los Norovirus como agentes asociados. Considerando la escasa documentación al respecto, se realizó este estudio para evaluar la prevalencia de Norovirus en niños de 0 a 10 años con diarrea aguda que acudieron a la Policlínica Metropolitana en Caracas; verificando su asociación con otros factores etiológicos y demográficos. 102 muestras fecales fueron sometidas al análisis bacteriológico, parasitológico y viral, utilizando para la detección de Norovirus un ensayo ELISA RIDASCREEN Norwalk-like-Virus. Al análisis estadístico incluyó los índices O. R, y Chi Cuadrado para analizar las frecuencias de los agentes etiológicos, permitiendo además verificar si la diarrea por Norovirus era Independiente de otros patogénos, del sexo y grupos etareos. Se utilizó Excel y el paquete estadístico SPSS 1.0. Los resultados sugirieron que el riesgo de diarrea por Norovirus se sextuplicó en los niños de 1-2 años en comparación con los mayores a 5 años (O.R 5,8842 p:0,0070;x210,879 p:0,012). En los casos positivos, la prevalencia de Norovirus fue del 68,9% y 30% de ellos presentó coinfección con otros patógenos, pero la asociación no fue significativa (p>0,05). Considerando los casos de diarrea que quedan sin diagnósticar, sería lógico pensar que Norovirus circularía con una lata frecuencia en Venezuela, ya que la prevalencia fue superior a la resprtada en otras poblaciones (39,2% vs 5-33%). El impacto de las infecciones por Norovirus en Venezuela se desconece completamente y debe ser estudiado con mayor profundidad.

Gastroenteritis is a very important cause of mobility and mortality in Venezuela and the rest of the World. Their etiology on children is mainly caused by viruses, including Norovirus. Considering the lack of related documentarion in Venezuela, we performed a study in order to calculate the prevalence of Norovirus on children betwen 0 to 10 years old, with acute diarrhea treated on the Policlinica Metropolitna, Caracas; also we analyzed his association with other etiological and demographic factors. 102 stool samples were tested for bacteria parasitic and viruses. For Norovirus we used the ELISA RIDASCREEN Norwalk-like-Virus, (r-biopharm, Germany). The statistical calculations included O.R. and Chi Square ratios, in order to analyze the frequency of the different etiological agents and also to verify if the diarrheas for Norovirus were independent from other pathogenic agents, sex or age groups. We used Excel and SPSS 1.0 software for statistical calculations. The results suggested that the risk of getting a diarrhea caused for Norovirus was 6 times higher on children from 1 to 2 years old than those older that five years old. (OR 5,8842 p:0,0070;x210,879p:0,012) The prevalence for Norovirus was 68,9% and 30% of them presented simultaneous infection with other pathogenic agents, but this association wasn't significative (p>0,05). Considering the high number of diarrhea cases that lack of a proper etiological diagnostic, it's possible that the Norovirus are circulating with a high frequency in Venezuela, due the prevalence reported on this study is above the reported in other population studies (39,2% vs 5-33%). The actual impact of Norovirus in Venezuela is still unknown and must be study with more detail.

Diarrea, brote en menores de 5 años / Diarrheal diseases: an outbreak in children under 5 years old

Determinar el comportamiento de las enfermedades diarreicas agudas en menores de 5 años por grupos de edades, serie cronológica semanal y distribución por distritos. Identificar factores de riesgo y accionar. Se realizó una investigación-acción en la República de Nauru. Los datos se obtuvieron al realizar entrevistas a médicos, enfermeras, padres o tutores de los niños, se revisaron hojas de cargo, historias clínicas y se visitaron comunidades. Se introdujeron los datos en el programa EPI 6, se utilizaron los programas Epimap 2 para la estratificación por distritos y Excel para la confección de la serie cronológica y gráficos. Los datos se procesaron diariamente, se determinó frecuencias por grupos de edades, se calcularon tasas por 1 000 habitantes y se realizaron acciones comunitarias. En el brote se reportan 645 casos (510,7x 103 habitantes) con predominio en niños de 1 a 3 años, se incrementa significativamente en la semana estadística 18, con un pico máximo en la 21, los distritos Yaren y Anabar se afectan desde el comienzo. Las acciones médicas y comunitarias son efectivas. No se reportan fallecidos por este brote.

To determine the behavior of acute diarrheal diseases in children under 5 years old by age groups, weekly chronological series, and district distribution, as well as to identify the risk factors and the actions to be taken. A research-action plan was implemented in the Republic of Nauru. The data were collected from interviews to physicians, nurses, parents or tutors of the children. Charge sheets and clinical records were reviewed and communities were visited. The data were introduced in an EPI 6 program, and Epimap 2 programmes were used to stratify by district. Excel was utilized to design chronological series and graphics. Data were daily processed, and frequencies by age group were determined. Rates per 1 000 inhabitants were estimated, and community actions were executed. 645 cases were reported (510.7x 103 inhabitants) in the outbreak, with a predominance in children aged 1-3. A significant increase was observed in the 18th statistic week, with a maximum peak in the 21st week. Yaren and Anabar districts were affected from the beginning. Medical and community actions were effective. No deaths were reported due to this outbreak.

Viral, bacterial and parasitic etiology of pediatric diarrhea in Gaza, palestine

To determine the etiology of acute diarrhea in Palestinian children under 5 years of age and to improve knowledge of the etiology of gastrointestinal pathogens using traditional and molecular diagnostic techniques. Various common enteropathogens [viral, bacterial and parasites] associated with diarrhea were investigated by conventional and molecular techniques [PCR] in 150 children less than 5 years of age admitted to the Central Pediatric Hospital, Gaza Strip, Palestine. The occurrence of enteropathogens identified was as follows: rotavirus 42/150 [28%], Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 23/150 [15%], Shigella spp. 9/150 [6%], Campylobacter coli/jejuni and Escherichia coli O157:H7 7/150 [5%] each, Salmonella spp. 3/150 [2%], Giardia intestinalis 1/150 [1%], and Strongyloides stercoralis 1/150 [1%] of the samples. Shigella and Salmonella isolates were tested for their susceptibility to common antimicrobial agents and most of the isolates were resistant to ampicillin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. This study demonstrated that rotavirus, E. coli O157:H7 and Campylobacter, which are not routinely screened for in Gaza Strip, were significant enteropathogens. The results highlight the value of using a combination of traditional and PCR techniques in the diagnosis of enteropathogens related to gastroenteritis

Morbilidad por enfermedad diarreica aguda en lactantes contra lactancia materna / Morbidity by acute diarrheic disease in suckling children versus maternal breastfeeding

La Enfermedad Diarreica Aguda es un problema de salud común, sobre todo en los países en vías de desarrollo. Es una enfermedad autolimitada que obedece a múltiples etiologías. Entre sus causas no infecciosas más frecuentes se señalan la disalimentación, la mala manipulación y elaboración de los alimentos y las condiciones higiénico-sanitarias deficientes. A partir de la década de los 80 del pasado siglo, la UNICEF y la OMS han desarrollado múltiples programas con el objetivo de rescatar la lactancia materna, pues ésta práctica ofrece innumerables beneficios para la salud del lactante y disminuye la morbimortalidad en el primer año de vida. Por la frecuencia con que la EDA es causa de ingreso en nuestro servicio, sobre todo en lactantes; y por la frecuencia con que encontramos durante la anamnesis, la pérdida de la lactancia materna exclusiva desde edades tempranas y errores en la preparación de las leches artificiales de uso habitual, fue que realizamos este estudio, quizás preliminar, pero que pudiera dar paso a otros más ambiciosos. Se realiza estudio retrospectivo de los lactantes ingresados por EDA en el servicio de Terapia Intermedia durante el año 2006. Se concluye que el 30 por ciento de los lactantes ingresan por EDA, el 21 por ciento toma lactancia materna exclusiva, el 49 por ciento comete errores en la preparación de las leches, que de alguna manera influyó en el motivo del ingreso; la acidosis metabólica, la deshidratación y el vómito fueron los síntomas que más frecuente acompañaron a la diarrea y el 49 por ciento se concluyó como una EDA de etiología viral al egreso.

The acute diarrheic disease is a common health problem, especially in developing countries. It is an auto limited disease with multiple etiologies. Among its most frequent, non-infectious causes, there are disnourishing, bad food manipulation and preparing, and deficient hygienic-sanitary conditions. From the eighties of the last century, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have developed many programs with the objective of rescuing maternal breastfeeding, because it offers innumerable benefits for the suckling child's health, and diminishes the morbid-mortality during the first year of life. We made this study, may be preliminary, but that could open the way to other more ambitious studies, because of the frequency we find, during the anamnesis, lost of exclusive maternal breastfeeding since early ages and mistakes in preparing alternative kinds of milk of habitual use. We carried out a retrospective study of the suckling children entered by acute diarrheic diseases in the Intermediate Intensive Care Service during 2006. We concluded that 30 % of all the suckling children entered by acute diarrheic disease, 21 % had exclusive maternal breastfeeding; 49 % for committed mistakes when preparing alternative milks, which influenced in some way on the entering motive; the most frequent symptoms accompanying diarrhea were metabolic acidosis, dehydration and vomit; at the moment of discharging, 49 % of the cases were concluded as acute diarrheic disease of viral aetiology.