Viral GI infections

Question 1

Viral causes of gastroenteritis

Answer 1

• Adenovirus (DNA)
• Enterovirus (RNA)
• Rotavirus (RNA)
• Norovirus (RNA)
• Astrovirus (RNA)
• Hepatitis A and E (RNA)

Question 2

Tests used to detect viruses in stool

Answer 2

• EIA (enzyme immunoassay)
• RT PCR
• Diagnostic testing only done for rotavirus and adenovirus

Question 3

Nosocomial etiologies of gastroenteritis in children

Answer 3

• Rotavirus causes the majority of severe gastroenteritis in infants and children
• Diarrhea usually lasts 3-7 days w/ an incubation period of 1-3 days
• Hepatitis A virus usually infects young children but can also infect adults
• Children <HEV)

Question 4

Viruses that cause gastroenteritis and hepatitis

Answer 4

• Hepatitis A and E viruses
• Very long duration (incubation times >25 days), lasting over a month
• Both cause gastroenteritis and icterus

Question 5

Summary of GI viruses

Answer 5

• Majority are transmitted by fecal-oral route (P2P or food contamination), many water borne
• Rx is supportive, complications: dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, acidosis
• Diagnostic tests only for rotavirus and adenovirus
• All have short duration, except hepatitis (HAV<HEV)
• All cause gastroenteritis, hepatitis viruses also cause icterus (hepatitis)
• Only vaccines are for rotavirus and HAV