An Epidemiologic Surveillance of Shiga-like Toxin-producing Escherichia coli Infection in Argentinean Children

• DOI: 10.1097/inf.0b013e31822ea6cf
• Publication Date: 2011-08-09T04:48:04Z
• Authors: Eduardo L. López; Maria M. Contrini; Eduardo Glatstein; Silvia González A...; Roberto Santoro; Gustavo Ezcurra; Eduardo Teplitz; Yoichi Matsumoto; Hiroaki Sato; Kazuaki Sakai; Yasuhiro Katsuura; Satoru Hoshide; Takuya Morita; Ronald Harning; Sheldon Brookman
• Keywords: Shiga-like toxin

Background and Aims: Shiga-like toxin (Stx)-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infection is an ongoing health issue that can lead to serious complications, including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) death. This study assessed demographic epidemiologic information of STEC among Argentinean children. Methods: A prospective surveillance 2435 screened children (age, 0.5–15 years) presenting with watery diarrhea and/or bloody was undertaken evaluate the clinical course infection. Results: Prevalence 4.1% subjects for ≤5 days' duration, ≤36 hours' or both. Incidence significantly higher in diarrhea. Ninety-three STEC+ underwent further evaluation, whom 8 (8.6%) developed HUS. White blood cells, particularly neutrophils, were abnormally elevated at screening 5 HUS subjects. Quantifiable serum Stx-2 values noted within 24 48 hours after onset 3 using a validated chemiluminescence assay, levels quickly dissipating by onset. Conclusions: Results suggest young STEC-positive exhibiting neutrophilic leukocytosis early their are risk progression. The observation measurable concentrations post–bloody-diarrhea period rapid dissipation time requires evaluation.