The returned traveller with diarrhoea.

Full Abstract

BACKGROUND:
Traveller's diarrhoea is among the most frequently reported problems for travellers. Prevention remains a challenge in travellers and the appropriate management of traveller's diarrhoea remains paramount.

OBJECTIVE:
This article provides an overview of the general approach to diarrhoea in the returned traveller, including identification of common causes and management.

DISCUSSION:
The most common causes of traveller's diarrhoea are bacterial contamination of food and water, particularly with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli. Most cases of traveller's diarrhoea are mild, are of short duration and do not require antibiotic treatment. Where the diarrhoea is severe, bloody and/or prolonged, then laboratory investigation is necessary. Where the patient is severely ill and possibly septicaemic, blood culture is mandatory. Presently, one of the most useful groups of the antibiotics routinely available for treatment is the fluoroquinolones.

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Author information

Author/s: Goldsmid, John M (JM); Leggat, Peter A (PA);

Affiliation: Discipline of Pathology, University of Tasmania, Australia. j.m.goldsmid(-atsign-)utas.edu.au

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Review

Journal: Australian family physician (Aust Fam Physician), published in Australia. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2007-May; vol 36 (issue 5) : pp 322-7

Dates: Created 2007/05/11; Completed 2007/06/29;

PMID: 17492065, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 12/26/2008)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Ambulatory Care - methods
Antidiarrheals - therapeutic use
Australia
Developing Countries
Diarrhea - drug therapy; microbiology; prevention & control

Family Practice - methods
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Patient Compliance
Self Care - methods
Travel

Associated Chemicals: Antidiarrheals (0)

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