Campylobacteriosis
Campylobacteriosis: Excerpt from Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition)
Campylobacteriosis is an intestinal infection caused by the Campylobacter organism, a spiral-shaped bacteria that invades and destroys the epithelial cells of the jejunum, ileum, and colon. It may spread to the bloodstream in persons with compromised immune systems, causing a life-threatening infection.
Causes and incidence
Campylobacteriosis is transmitted by the consumption of contaminated food, such as raw poultry, fresh produce, water, or unpasteurized milk; and through contact with an infected person's stool. Transmission is also possible through contact with infected pets and wild animals. Risk factors include recent family infection with C. jejuni and travel to an area with poor hygiene or sanitation practices.
Campylobacteriosis, which is more common in the summer months, is the most common bacterial cause of diarrheal illness in the United States.
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms usually develop 2 to 4 days after exposure to Campylobacter. The patient's history typically reveals consumption of contaminated food or water, followed by an acute onset of mild or severe diarrhea. There may also be a history of recent close contact with a person experiencing diarrhea.
On examination, the patient may complain of cramping, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Fever may be present, and there may be traces of blood in the stool. Complications associated with campylobacteriosis include bacteremia; severe dehydration and electrolyte disturbances; Guillain-Barré syndrome; and Reiter’s syndrome. Patients with campylobacteriosis who are immunocompromised are more susceptible to sepsis, endocarditis, meningitis, and thrombophlebitis because of the spread of the bacteria into the bloodstream.
Diagnosis
CONFIRMING DIAGNOSIS Stool culture identifying Campylobacter confirms the diagnosis of campylobacteriosis.
History and physical examination help in diagnosing campylobacteriosis.
Treatment
Campylobacteriosis typically resolves on its own and isn’t usually treated with antibiotics unless severe signs and symptoms are present. If severe symptoms are present, antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin and azithromycin may be ordered. Fluid and electrolyte imbalances are corrected with increased fluid intake or I.V. fluid replacement, as indicated.
Special considerations
❑Monitor the patient's intake and output and vital signs. Assess for signs of dehydration, such as tachycardia, tachypnea, and decreased urine output.
❑Monitor the patient's electrolyte levels and assess the effects of replacement electrolyte therapy and I.V. fluids.
❑Observe standard precautions.
❑Instruct the patient and his family on hand-hygiene techniques and preventive measures, including the proper handling and preparing of foods.
Book Source Details
- Book Title: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition)
- Author(s): Springhouse
- Year of Publication: 2005
- Copyright Details: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), Copyright © 2005 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
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Copyright notice for book excerpts: Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. All rights reserved.
» Next page: Escherichia coli and other Enterobacteriaceae infections (Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition))
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