Gastroenteritis - Parasitic

Definition

Parasitic gastroenteritis in children is an intestinal infection caused by protozoa or helminths, leading to diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and malabsorption, often with chronic or recurrent course.

Epidemiology

• Common in children living in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe water
• Higher prevalence in tropical and subtropical regions
• Peak incidence in children under 5 years
• Transmission primarily via fecal-oral route, contaminated food or water
• Reinfection is common due to environmental exposure

Etiology

• Protozoa: Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium spp.
• Helminths: Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworms, Strongyloides
• Contaminated water or food sources
• Poor hygiene practices and inadequate handwashing
• Close contact in daycare or school settings

Pathophysiology

• Parasites adhere to or invade the intestinal mucosa, causing inflammation
• Disruption of absorptive surfaces leads to malabsorption and diarrhea
• Toxins released by parasites contribute to mucosal injury
• Intestinal motility may be altered, leading to cramping and vomiting
• Chronic infections can result in nutritional deficiencies and growth retardation
• Immune response may cause further tissue damage and systemic symptoms