Misplaced Pages

Gastroenteritis

Article snapshot taken from Wikipedia with creative commons attribution-sharealike license. Give it a read and then ask your questions in the chat. We can research this topic together.
#429570

138-404: Gastroenteritis , also known as infectious diarrhea , is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract including the stomach and intestine . Symptoms may include diarrhea , vomiting , and abdominal pain . Fever , lack of energy, and dehydration may also occur. This typically lasts less than two weeks. Although it is not related to influenza , in the U.S. and U.K., it is sometimes called

276-399: A chemotactic gradient created by the local cells to reach the site of injury. The loss of function ( functio laesa ) is probably the result of a neurological reflex in response to pain. In addition to cell-derived mediators, several acellular biochemical cascade systems—consisting of preformed plasma proteins—act in parallel to initiate and propagate the inflammatory response. These include

414-401: A lipid storage disorder, is now understood as a chronic inflammatory condition involving the arterial walls. Research has established a fundamental role for inflammation in mediating all stages of atherosclerosis from initiation through progression and, ultimately, the thrombotic complications from it. These new findings reveal links between traditional risk factors like cholesterol levels and

552-561: A low level of potassium in the blood . An abnormally low level of sodium in the blood is often encountered in Guillain–Barré syndrome. This has been attributed to the inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone , leading to relative retention of water. In many cases, magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord is performed to distinguish between Guillain–Barré syndrome and other conditions causing limb weakness, such as spinal cord compression . If an MRI scan shows enhancement of

690-413: A tracheostomy ). Nutritional support may be provided by the team and by dietitians . Psychologists may provide counselling and support. Psychological interventions may also be required for anxiety, fear, and depression. Ongoing specialist community support, information, advice, and guidance is available from a range of Charities , Non-Government Organisations (NGOs), and Patient Advisory Groups around

828-623: A combination of the two is not significantly better than either alone. Plasmapheresis speeds recovery when used within four weeks of the onset of symptoms. IVIG works as well as plasmapheresis when started within two weeks of the onset of symptoms, and has fewer complications. IVIG is usually used first because of its ease of administration and safety; the risks include occasionally causing liver inflammation , or in rare cases, kidney failure. Glucocorticoids alone have not been found to be effective in speeding recovery and could potentially delay recovery. Respiratory failure may require intubation of

966-427: A complication. GBS cases occurred in 362 patients during the 6 weeks after influenza vaccination of 45 million persons, an 8.8-fold increase over normal rates. The 1976 swine flu vaccination-induced GBS was an outlier; small increases in incidence have been observed in subsequent vaccination campaigns, but not to the same extent. The 2009 flu pandemic vaccine against pandemic swine flu virus H1N1/PDM09 did not cause

1104-454: A construction site – for the purpose of aiding phagocytic debridement and wound repair later on. Some of the exuded tissue fluid is also funneled by lymphatics to the regional lymph nodes, flushing bacteria along to start the recognition and attack phase of the adaptive immune system . Acute inflammation is characterized by marked vascular changes, including vasodilation , increased permeability and increased blood flow, which are induced by

1242-410: A day to over two weeks to reach maximum severity, and then becomes steady. In one in five people, the weakness continues to progress for as long as four weeks. The muscles of the neck may also be affected, and about half experience involvement of the cranial nerves that supply the head and face; this may lead to weakness of the muscles of the face , swallowing difficulties and sometimes weakness of

1380-410: A few days. Cytokines and chemokines promote the migration of neutrophils and macrophages to the site of inflammation. Pathogens, allergens, toxins, burns, and frostbite are some of the typical causes of acute inflammation. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize microbial pathogens. Acute inflammation can be a defensive mechanism to protect tissues against injury. Inflammation lasting 2–6 weeks

1518-410: A fifth are unable to walk unaided after six months, and many experience chronic pain , fatigue and difficulty with work, education, hobbies and social activities. HRQL improves significantly in the first year. In Western countries, the number of new episodes per year has been estimated to be between 0.89 and 1.89 cases per 100,000 people. Children and young adults are less likely to be affected than

SECTION 10

#1732787229430

1656-511: A form of Guillain–Barré syndrome is a matter of dispute; this is a rare occurrence compared to GBS with muscle weakness but no sensory symptoms. Plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) are the two main immunotherapy treatments for GBS. Plasmapheresis attempts to reduce the body's attack on the nervous system by filtering antibodies out of the bloodstream. Similarly, administration of IVIG neutralizes harmful antibodies and inflammation. These two treatments are equally effective, but

1794-414: A full recovery within three to eight days. However, in poor countries treatment for severe infections is often out of reach and persistent diarrhea is common. Dehydration is a common complication of diarrhea . Severe dehydration in children may be recognized if the skin color and position returns slowly when pressed. This is called "prolonged capillary refill " and "poor skin turgor ". Abnormal breathing

1932-606: A group of substances found in peripheral nerves. A ganglioside is a molecule consisting of ceramide bound to a small group of hexose -type sugars and containing various numbers of N -acetylneuraminic acid groups. The key four gangliosides against which antibodies have been described are GM1 , GD1a, GT1a, and GQ1b, with different antiganglioside antibodies being associated with particular features; for instance, GQ1b antibodies have been linked with Miller Fisher variant GBS and related forms including Bickerstaff encephalitis. The production of these antibodies after an infection probably

2070-407: A likely cause. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis (through a lumbar spinal puncture ) and nerve conduction studies are supportive investigations commonly performed in the diagnosis of GBS. Testing for antiganglioside antibodies is often performed, but their contribution to diagnosis is usually limited. Blood tests are generally performed to exclude the possibility of another cause for weakness, such as

2208-464: A progressive shift in the type of cells present at the site of inflammation, such as mononuclear cells , and involves simultaneous destruction and healing of the tissue. Inflammation has also been classified as Type 1 and Type 2 based on the type of cytokines and helper T cells (Th1 and Th2) involved. The earliest known reference for the term inflammation is around the early 15th century. The word root comes from Old French inflammation around

2346-852: A prolonged capillary refill , poor skin turgor , and abnormal breathing. Other useful findings (when used in combination) include sunken eyes, decreased activity, a lack of tears, and a dry mouth. A normal urinary output and oral fluid intake is reassuring. Laboratory testing is of little clinical benefit in determining the degree of dehydration. Thus the use of urine testing or ultrasounds is generally not needed. Other potential causes of signs and symptoms that mimic those seen in gastroenteritis that need to be ruled out include appendicitis , volvulus , inflammatory bowel disease , urinary tract infections , and diabetes mellitus . Pancreatic insufficiency , short bowel syndrome , Whipple's disease , coeliac disease , and laxative abuse should also be considered. The differential diagnosis can be complicated somewhat if

2484-443: A reduced risk. The tropical flaviviral infections dengue fever and Zika virus have also been associated with episodes of GBS. Previous hepatitis E virus infection has been found to be more common in people with GBS. An increased incidence of Guillain–Barré syndrome followed influenza immunization that followed the 1976 swine flu outbreak (H1N1 A/NJ/76); 8.8 cases per million (0.0088 per 1000) recipients developed it as

2622-540: A role in many military campaigns and is believed to be the origin of the term "no guts no glory". Gastroenteritis is the main reason for 3.7 million visits to physicians a year in the United States and 3 million visits in France. In the United States gastroenteritis as a whole is believed to result in costs of US$ 23 billion per year, with rotavirus alone resulting in estimated costs of US$ 1 billion

2760-448: A significant clinical benefit. Antibiotics are not usually used for gastroenteritis, although they are sometimes recommended if symptoms are particularly severe or if a susceptible bacterial cause is isolated or suspected. If antibiotics are to be employed, a macrolide (such as azithromycin ) is preferred over a fluoroquinolone due to higher rates of resistance to the latter. Pseudomembranous colitis , usually caused by antibiotic use,

2898-399: A significant increase in cases. In fact, "studies found a small increase of approximately 1 case per million vaccines above the baseline rate, which is similar to that observed after administration of seasonal influenza vaccines over the past several years." Natural influenza infection is a stronger risk factor for the development of GBS than is influenza vaccination and the vaccination reduced

SECTION 20

#1732787229430

3036-448: A smaller increase in IgG in the blood two weeks after administration is associated with poorer mobility outcomes at six months than those whose IgG level increased substantially. If the disease continues to progress beyond four weeks, or there are multiple fluctuations in the severity (more than two in eight weeks), the diagnosis may be chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy , which

3174-406: A specific cell type. Such an approach may limit side effects that are unrelated to the tumor of interest, and may help preserve vital homeostatic functions and developmental processes in the organism. There is some evidence from 2009 to suggest that cancer-related inflammation (CRI) may lead to accumulation of random genetic alterations in cancer cells. In 1863, Rudolf Virchow hypothesized that

3312-529: A subtype of Miller Fisher syndrome and have similar antiganglioside antibody patterns. Other diagnostic entities are often included in the spectrum of Guillain–Barré syndrome. Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis (BBE), for instance, is part of the group of conditions now regarded as forms of Miller Fisher syndrome (anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome), as well as a related condition labelled "acute ataxic hypersomnolence" where coordination problems and drowsiness are present but no muscle weakness can be detected. BBE

3450-403: A systemic response known as anaphylaxis . Inflammatory myopathies are caused by the immune system inappropriately attacking components of muscle, leading to signs of muscle inflammation. They may occur in conjunction with other immune disorders, such as systemic sclerosis , and include dermatomyositis , polymyositis , and inclusion body myositis . Due to the central role of leukocytes in

3588-474: A urethral infection because urethral microbial invasion is the most common cause of urethritis. However, the inflammation–infection distinction is crucial in situations in pathology and medical diagnosis that involve inflammation that is not driven by microbial invasion, such as cases of atherosclerosis , trauma , ischemia , and autoimmune diseases (including type III hypersensitivity ). Biological: Chemical: Psychological: Acute inflammation

3726-608: A vascular phase that occurs first, followed by a cellular phase involving immune cells (more specifically myeloid granulocytes in the acute setting). The vascular component of acute inflammation involves the movement of plasma fluid , containing important proteins such as fibrin and immunoglobulins ( antibodies ), into inflamed tissue. Upon contact with PAMPs, tissue macrophages and mastocytes release vasoactive amines such as histamine and serotonin , as well as eicosanoids such as prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4 to remodel

3864-471: A vast variety of human diseases. The immune system is often involved with inflammatory disorders, as demonstrated in both allergic reactions and some myopathies , with many immune system disorders resulting in abnormal inflammation. Non-immune diseases with causal origins in inflammatory processes include cancer, atherosclerosis , and ischemic heart disease . Examples of disorders associated with inflammation include: Atherosclerosis, formerly considered

4002-435: A very favorable safety profile but as a result of rare case reports of Guillain–Barré syndrome was withdrawn from the market. The nerve dysfunction in Guillain–Barré syndrome is caused by an immune attack on the nerve cells of the peripheral nervous system and their support structures. The nerve cells have their body (the soma) in the spinal cord and a long projection (the axon ) that carries electrical nerve impulses to

4140-667: A warning to the patients and healthcare providers. The incidence of GBS following the vaccination with the Oxford–AstraZeneca vaccine was originally reported as being lower than the incidence of GBS following a COVID-19 infection. More recent studies, however, found no measurable link between COVID-19 infection and GBS, while correlations with a first dose of AstraZeneca or Janssen vaccines were still positive. COVID-19 has been reported as causing peripheral neuropathy and more recently some evidence of aggravation of autoimmune disorders including GBS. Zimelidine , an antidepressant, had

4278-606: A wide variety of animals. There are a number of non-infectious causes of inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Some of the more common include medications (like NSAIDs ), certain foods such as lactose (in those who are intolerant), and gluten (in those with celiac disease ). Crohn's disease is also a non-infectious cause of (often severe) gastroenteritis. Disease secondary to toxins may also occur. Some food-related conditions associated with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea include: ciguatera poisoning due to consumption of contaminated predatory fish, scombroid associated with

Gastroenteritis - Misplaced Pages Continue

4416-803: A worse sense of smell during a cold, or having difficulty breathing when bronchitis is present. Loss of function has multiple causes. The process of acute inflammation is initiated by resident immune cells already present in the involved tissue, mainly resident macrophages , dendritic cells , histiocytes , Kupffer cells and mast cells . These cells possess surface receptors known as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which recognize (i.e., bind) two subclasses of molecules: pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). PAMPs are compounds that are associated with various pathogens , but which are distinguishable from host molecules. DAMPs are compounds that are associated with host-related injury and cell damage. At

4554-433: A year. The first usage of "gastroenteritis" was in 1825. Before this time it was commonly known as typhoid fever or "cholera morbus", among others, or less specifically as "griping of the guts", "surfeit", "flux", "colic", "bowel complaint", or any one of several other archaic names for acute diarrhea. Cholera morbus is a historical term that was used to refer to gastroenteritis rather than specifically cholera . Many of

4692-467: Is a generic response, and therefore is considered a mechanism of innate immunity , whereas adaptive immunity is specific to each pathogen. Inflammation is a protective response involving immune cells , blood vessels , and molecular mediators. The function of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out damaged cells and tissues, and initiate tissue repair. Too little inflammation could lead to progressive tissue destruction by

4830-469: Is a short-term process, usually appearing within a few minutes or hours and begins to cease upon the removal of the injurious stimulus. It involves a coordinated and systemic mobilization response locally of various immune, endocrine and neurological mediators of acute inflammation. In a normal healthy response, it becomes activated, clears the pathogen and begins a repair process and then ceases. Acute inflammation occurs immediately upon injury, lasting only

4968-471: Is a variation in the rate and extent of recovery. The prognosis of Guillain–Barré syndrome is determined mainly by age (those over 40 may have a poorer outcome), and by the severity of symptoms after two weeks. Furthermore, those who experienced diarrhea before the onset of the disease have a worse prognosis. On the nerve conduction study, the presence of conduction block predicts poorer outcome at 6 months. In those who have received intravenous immunoglobulins,

5106-778: Is another sign of severe dehydration. Repeat infections are typically seen in areas with poor sanitation, and malnutrition . Stunted growth and long-term cognitive delays can result. Reactive arthritis occurs in 1% of people following infections with Campylobacter species. Guillain–Barré syndrome occurs in 0.1%. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) may occur due to infection with Shiga toxin -producing Escherichia coli or Shigella species. HUS causes low platelet counts , poor kidney function , and low red blood cell count (due to their breakdown) . Children are more predisposed to getting HUS than adults. Some viral infections may produce benign infantile seizures . Viruses (particularly rotavirus (in children) and norovirus (in adults)) and

5244-775: Is associated with a 30% increased risk of developing major depressive disorder, supporting the link between inflammation and mental health. An allergic reaction, formally known as type 1 hypersensitivity , is the result of an inappropriate immune response triggering inflammation, vasodilation, and nerve irritation. A common example is hay fever , which is caused by a hypersensitive response by mast cells to allergens . Pre-sensitised mast cells respond by degranulating , releasing vasoactive chemicals such as histamine. These chemicals propagate an excessive inflammatory response characterised by blood vessel dilation, production of pro-inflammatory molecules, cytokine release, and recruitment of leukocytes. Severe inflammatory response may mature into

5382-497: Is believed to be introduced to pigs by wild birds and there is no specific treatment available. It is not transmissible to humans. Inflammation Inflammation (from Latin : inflammatio ) is part of the biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens , damaged cells, or irritants . The five cardinal signs are heat, pain, redness, swelling, and loss of function (Latin calor , dolor , rubor , tumor , and functio laesa ). Inflammation

5520-407: Is characterized by the rapid onset of ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and disturbance of consciousness, and may be associated with absent or decreased tendon reflexes and as well as Babinski's sign . The course of the disease is usually monophasic, but recurrent episodes have been reported. MRI abnormalities in the brainstem have been reported in 11%. Whether isolated acute sensory loss can be regarded as

5658-411: Is common in people with Guillain–Barré syndrome, studies comparing different types of pain medication are insufficient to make a recommendation as to which should be used. Following the acute phase, around 40% of people require intensive rehabilitation with the help of a multidisciplinary team to focus on improving activities of daily living (ADLs). Studies into the subject have been limited, but it

Gastroenteritis - Misplaced Pages Continue

5796-445: Is designated subacute inflammation. Inflammation is characterized by five cardinal signs , (the traditional names of which come from Latin): The first four (classical signs) were described by Celsus ( c.  30 BC –38 AD). Pain is due to the release of chemicals such as bradykinin and histamine that stimulate nerve endings. Acute inflammation of the lung (usually in response to pneumonia ) does not cause pain unless

5934-458: Is involved in the control of body functions such as heart rate and blood pressure , is affected in two-thirds of people with Guillain–Barré syndrome, but the impact is variable. Twenty percent may experience severe blood-pressure fluctuations and irregularities in the heart beat , sometimes to the point that the heart beat stops and requires pacemaker-based treatment . Other associated problems are abnormalities in perspiration and changes in

6072-935: Is likely that intensive rehabilitation improves long-term symptoms. Teams may include physical therapists , occupational therapists , speech language pathologists, social workers, psychologists , other allied health professionals and nurses . The team usually works under the supervision of a neurologist or rehabilitation physician directing treatment goals. Physiotherapy interventions include strength, endurance, and gait training with graduated increases in mobility, maintenance of posture and alignment as well as joint function. Occupational therapy aims to improve everyday function with domestic and community tasks as well as driving and work. Home modifications, gait aids, orthotics , and splints may be provided. Speech-language pathology input may be required in those with speech and swallowing problems, as well as to support communication in those who require ongoing breathing support (often through

6210-409: Is managed by discontinuing the causative agent and treating it with either metronidazole or vancomycin . Bacteria and protozoans that are amenable to treatment include Shigella Salmonella typhi , and Giardia species. In those with Giardia species or Entamoeba histolytica , tinidazole treatment is recommended and superior to metronidazole. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends

6348-416: Is mediated by mononuclear cells such as monocytes and lymphocytes . Various leukocytes , particularly neutrophils, are critically involved in the initiation and maintenance of inflammation. These cells must be able to move to the site of injury from their usual location in the blood, therefore mechanisms exist to recruit and direct leukocytes to the appropriate place. The process of leukocyte movement from

6486-601: Is most common, but Entamoeba histolytica , Cryptosporidium spp., and other species have also been implicated. As a group, these agents comprise about 10% of cases in children. Giardia occurs more commonly in the developing world, but this type of illness can occur nearly everywhere. It occurs more commonly in persons who have traveled to areas with high prevalence, children who attend day care , men who have sex with men , and following disasters . Transmission may occur from drinking contaminated water or when people share personal objects. Water quality typically worsens during

6624-468: Is named after the French neurologists Georges Guillain and Jean Alexandre Barré , who, together with French physician André Strohl , described the condition in 1916. The first symptoms of Guillain–Barré syndrome are numbness, tingling, and pain, alone or in combination. This is followed by weakness of the legs and arms that affects both sides equally and worsens over time. The weakness can take half

6762-415: Is not currently known how this process escapes central tolerance to gangliosides, which is meant to suppress the production of antibodies against the body's own substances. Not all antiganglioside antibodies cause disease, and it has recently been suggested that some antibodies bind to more than one type of epitope simultaneously (heterodimeric binding) and that this determines the response. Furthermore,

6900-438: Is not recommended in children, however, as it may cross the immature blood–brain barrier and cause toxicity. Bismuth subsalicylate , an insoluble complex of trivalent bismuth and salicylate, can be used in mild to moderate cases, but salicylate toxicity is theoretically possible. It is estimated that there were two billion cases of gastroenteritis that resulted in 1.3 million deaths globally in 2015. Children and those in

7038-511: Is often used for studies, and some agents have shown promise: glatiramer acetate , quinupramine , fasudil (an inhibitor of the Rho-kinase enzyme), and the heart drug flecainide . An antibody targeted against the anti-GD3 antiganglioside antibody has shown benefit in laboratory research. Given the role of the complement system in GBS, it has been suggested that complement inhibitors (such as

SECTION 50

#1732787229430

7176-417: Is preceded by activation of a group of blood proteins known as complement . In contrast, the axonal variant is mediated by IgG antibodies and complement against the cell membrane covering the axon without direct lymphocyte involvement. Various antibodies directed at nerve cells have been reported in Guillain–Barré syndrome. In the axonal subtype, these antibodies have been shown to bind to gangliosides ,

7314-400: Is recommended. Electrolytes and kidney function should also be checked when there is a concern about severe dehydration. A determination of whether or not the person has dehydration is an important part of the assessment, with dehydration typically divided into mild (3–5%), moderate (6–9%), and severe (≥10%) cases. In children, the most accurate signs of moderate or severe dehydration are

7452-434: Is recommended. For more severe cases, intravenous fluids may be needed. Fluids may also be given by a nasogastric tube . Zinc supplementation is recommended in children. Antibiotics are generally not needed. However, antibiotics are recommended for young children with a fever and bloody diarrhea. In 2015, there were two billion cases of gastroenteritis, resulting in 1.3 million deaths globally. Children and those in

7590-469: Is reversible conduction failure) and therefore changes to these criteria have been proposed. Sometimes, repeated testing may be helpful. A number of subtypes of Guillain–Barré syndrome are recognized. Despite this, many people have overlapping symptoms that can make the classification difficult in individual cases. All types have partial forms. For instance, some people experience only isolated eye-movement or coordination problems; these are thought to be

7728-467: Is significantly higher (30–65%). This may be related to the exposure to different kinds of infection, but also the genetic characteristics of that population. Miller Fisher variant is thought to be more common in Southeast Asia. Jean-Baptiste Octave Landry first described the disorder in 1859. In 1916, Georges Guillain , Jean Alexandre Barré , and André Strohl diagnosed two soldiers with

7866-475: Is the cause of about 10% of cases in children. In some countries, Campylobacter jejuni is the primary cause of bacterial gastroenteritis, with half of these cases associated with exposure to poultry . In children, bacteria are the cause in about 15% of cases, with the most common types being Escherichia coli , Salmonella , Shigella , and Campylobacter species. If food becomes contaminated with bacteria and remains at room temperature for several hours,

8004-402: Is the most common cause of gastroenteritis in children, and produces similar rates in both the developed and developing world . Viruses cause about 70% of episodes of infectious diarrhea in the pediatric age group. Rotavirus is a less common cause in adults due to acquired immunity. Norovirus is the cause in about 18% of all cases. Generally speaking, viral gastroenteritis accounts for 21–40% of

8142-516: Is the result of molecular mimicry , where the immune system is reacting to microbial substances, but the resultant antibodies also react with substances occurring naturally in the body. After a Campylobacter infection, the body produces antibodies of the IgA class; only a small proportion of people also produce IgG antibodies against bacterial substance cell wall substances (e.g. lipooligosaccharides) that cross react with human nerve cell gangliosides. It

8280-489: Is treated differently. In research studies, the outcome from an episode of Guillain–Barré syndrome is recorded on a scale from 0 to 6, where 0 denotes completely healthy; 1 very minor symptoms but able to run; 2 able to walk but not to run; 3 requiring a stick or other support; 4 confined to bed or chair; 5 requiring long-term respiratory support; 6 death. The health-related quality of life (HRQL) after an attack of Guillain–Barré syndrome can be significantly impaired. About

8418-657: Is typically diagnosed clinically, based on a person's signs and symptoms. Determining the exact cause is usually not needed as it does not alter the management of the condition. However, stool cultures should be performed in those with blood in the stool, those who might have been exposed to food poisoning , and those who have recently traveled to the developing world. It may also be appropriate in children younger than 5, old people, and those with poor immune function. Diagnostic testing may also be done for surveillance. As hypoglycemia occurs in approximately 10% of infants and young children, measuring serum glucose in this population

SECTION 60

#1732787229430

8556-719: Is useful in treating abdominal pain . The primary treatment of gastroenteritis in both children and adults is rehydration . This is preferably achieved by drinking rehydration solution, although intravenous delivery may be required if there is a decreased level of consciousness or if dehydration is severe. Drinking replacement therapy products made with complex carbohydrates (i.e. those made from wheat or rice) may be superior to those based on simple sugars. Drinks especially high in simple sugars, such as soft drinks and fruit juices, are not recommended in children under five years of age as they may increase diarrhea. Plain water may be used if more specific ORT preparations are unavailable or

8694-459: Is usually a type of bacterial gastroenteritis, while the persistent form is usually parasitic. Acid-suppressing medication appears to increase the risk of significant infection after exposure to several organisms, including Clostridioides difficile , Salmonella , and Campylobacter species. The risk is greater in those taking proton pump inhibitors than with H 2 antagonists . A number of parasites can cause gastroenteritis. Giardia lamblia

8832-549: Is usually based on the signs and symptoms through the exclusion of alternative causes and supported by tests such as nerve conduction studies and examination of the cerebrospinal fluid . There are a number of subtypes based on the areas of weakness, results of nerve conduction studies, and the presence of certain antibodies . It is classified as an acute polyneuropathy . In those with severe weakness, prompt treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins or plasmapheresis , together with supportive care, will lead to good recovery in

8970-469: Is usually transmitted by contaminated water or food. Toxigenic Clostridioides difficile is an important cause of diarrhea that occurs more often in the elderly. Infants can carry these bacteria without developing symptoms. It is a common cause of diarrhea in those who are hospitalized and is frequently associated with antibiotic use. Staphylococcus aureus infectious diarrhea may also occur in those who have used antibiotics. Acute " traveler's diarrhea "

9108-595: The FDA required safety label changes from the manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline to include warnings for risk of Guillain–Barré syndrome. GBS has been reported in association with COVID-19 , and may be a potential neurological complication of the disease. GBS has been reported as a very rare side effect of the Janssen and Oxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines and the European Medicines Agency issued

9246-572: The bone marrow may result in abnormal or few leukocytes. Certain drugs or exogenous chemical compounds are known to affect inflammation. Vitamin A deficiency, for example, causes an increase in inflammatory responses, and anti-inflammatory drugs work specifically by inhibiting the enzymes that produce inflammatory eicosanoids . Additionally, certain illicit drugs such as cocaine and ecstasy may exert some of their detrimental effects by activating transcription factors intimately involved with inflammation (e.g. NF-κB ). Inflammation orchestrates

9384-424: The complement system activated by bacteria and the coagulation and fibrinolysis systems activated by necrosis (e.g., burn, trauma). Acute inflammation may be regarded as the first line of defense against injury. Acute inflammatory response requires constant stimulation to be sustained. Inflammatory mediators are short-lived and are quickly degraded in the tissue. Hence, acute inflammation begins to cease once

9522-435: The developing world are affected the most. In 2011, there were about 1.7 billion cases, resulting in about 700,000 deaths of children under the age of five. In the developing world, children less than two years of age frequently get six or more infections a year. It is less common in adults, partly due to the development of immunity . Gastroenteritis usually involves both diarrhea and vomiting . Sometimes, only one or

9660-437: The developing world are most commonly affected. As of 2011, in those younger than five, there were about 1.7 billion cases resulting in 0.7 million deaths, with most of these occurring in the world's poorest nations. More than 450,000 of these fatalities are due to rotavirus in children under five years of age. Cholera causes about three to five million cases of disease and kills approximately 100,000 people yearly. In

9798-521: The microenvironment around tumours, contributing to proliferation, survival and migration. Cancer cells use selectins , chemokines and their receptors for invasion, migration and metastasis. On the other hand, many cells of the immune system contribute to cancer immunology , suppressing cancer. Molecular intersection between receptors of steroid hormones, which have important effects on cellular development, and transcription factors that play key roles in inflammation, such as NF-κB , may mediate some of

9936-735: The nerve roots , this may be indicative of GBS. In children, this feature is present in 95% of scans, but it is not specific to Guillain–Barré syndrome, so other confirmation is also needed. Cerebrospinal fluid envelops the brain and the spine, and lumbar puncture or spinal tap is the removal of a small amount of fluid using a needle inserted between the lumbar vertebrae . Characteristic findings in Guillain–Barré syndrome are an elevated protein level, usually greater than 0.55 g/L, and fewer than 10 white blood cells per cubic millimeter of fluid ("albuminocytological dissociation"). This pattern distinguishes Guillain–Barré syndrome from other conditions (such as lymphoma and poliomyelitis ) in which both

10074-469: The neuromuscular junction , where the impulse is transferred to the muscle. Axons are wrapped in a sheath of Schwann cells that contain myelin . Between Schwann cells are gaps ( nodes of Ranvier ) where the axon is exposed. Different types of Guillain–Barré syndrome feature different types of immune attacks. The demyelinating variant (AIDP, see below) features damage to the myelin sheath by white blood cells ( T lymphocytes and macrophages ); this process

10212-800: The reactivity of the pupils . Autonomic nervous system involvement can affect even those who do not have severe muscle weakness. Two-thirds of people with Guillain–Barré syndrome have experienced an infection before the onset of the condition. Most commonly, these are episodes of gastroenteritis or a respiratory tract infection . In many cases, the exact nature of the infection can be confirmed. Approximately 30% of cases are provoked by Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, which cause diarrhea. A further 10% are attributable to cytomegalovirus (CMV, HHV-5). Despite this, only very few people with Campylobacter or CMV infections develop Guillain–Barré syndrome (0.25–0.65 per 1000 and 0.6–2.2 per 1000 episodes, respectively). The strain of Campylobacter involved may determine

10350-411: The rotavirus vaccine be offered to all children globally. Two commercial rotavirus vaccines exist and several more are in development. In Africa and Asia these vaccines reduced severe disease among infants and countries that have put in place national immunization programs have seen a decline in the rates and severity of disease. This vaccine may also prevent illness in non-vaccinated children by reducing

10488-405: The " stomach flu ". Gastroenteritis is usually caused by viruses ; however, gut bacteria , parasites , and fungi can also cause gastroenteritis. In children, rotavirus is the most common cause of severe disease. In adults, norovirus and Campylobacter are common causes. Eating improperly prepared food, drinking contaminated water or close contact with a person who is infected can spread

10626-452: The 14th century, which then comes from Latin inflammatio or inflammationem . Literally, the term relates to the word "flame", as the property of being "set on fire" or "to burn". The term inflammation is not a synonym for infection . Infection describes the interaction between the action of microbial invasion and the reaction of the body's inflammatory response—the two components are considered together in discussion of infection, and

10764-557: The Miller Fisher variant of Guillain–Barré syndrome (see below), a triad of weakness of the eye muscles, abnormalities in coordination , as well as absent reflexes can be found. The level of consciousness is normally unaffected in Guillain–Barré syndrome, but the Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis subtype may feature drowsiness, sleepiness, or coma. A quarter of all people with Guillain–Barré syndrome develop weakness of

10902-407: The actions of various inflammatory mediators. Vasodilation occurs first at the arteriole level, progressing to the capillary level, and brings about a net increase in the amount of blood present, causing the redness and heat of inflammation. Increased permeability of the vessels results in the movement of plasma into the tissues, with resultant stasis due to the increase in the concentration of

11040-703: The bacteria Escherichia coli and Campylobacter species are the primary causes of gastroenteritis. There are, however, many other infectious agents that can cause this syndrome including parasites and fungus . Non-infectious causes are seen on occasion, but they are less likely than a viral or bacterial cause. Risk of infection is higher in children due to their lack of immunity . Children are also at higher risk because they are less likely to practice good hygiene habits. Children living in areas without easy access to water and soap are especially vulnerable. Rotaviruses , noroviruses , adenoviruses , and astroviruses are known to cause viral gastroenteritis. Rotavirus

11178-402: The bacteria multiply and increase the risk of infection in those who consume the food. Some foods commonly associated with illness include raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs; raw sprouts; unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses; and fruit and vegetable juices. In the developing world, especially sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, cholera is a common cause of gastroenteritis. This infection

11316-909: The blood to the tissues through the blood vessels is known as extravasation and can be broadly divided up into a number of steps: Extravasated neutrophils in the cellular phase come into contact with microbes at the inflamed tissue. Phagocytes express cell-surface endocytic pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that have affinity and efficacy against non-specific microbe-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Most PAMPs that bind to endocytic PRRs and initiate phagocytosis are cell wall components, including complex carbohydrates such as mannans and β- glucans , lipopolysaccharides (LPS), peptidoglycans , and surface proteins. Endocytic PRRs on phagocytes reflect these molecular patterns, with C-type lectin receptors binding to mannans and β-glucans, and scavenger receptors binding to LPS. Upon endocytic PRR binding, actin - myosin cytoskeletal rearrangement adjacent to

11454-419: The body to harmful stimuli, and is achieved by the increased movement of plasma and leukocytes (in particular granulocytes ) from the blood into the injured tissues. A series of biochemical events propagates and matures the inflammatory response, involving the local vascular system , the immune system , and various cells in the injured tissue. Prolonged inflammation, known as chronic inflammation , leads to

11592-460: The breathing muscles leading to respiratory failure , the inability to breathe adequately to maintain healthy levels of oxygen , and/or carbon dioxide in the blood. This life-threatening scenario is complicated by other medical problems such as pneumonia , severe infections , blood clots in the lungs , and bleeding in the digestive tract in 60% of those who require artificial ventilation. The autonomic or involuntary nervous system , which

11730-486: The cases of infectious diarrhea in developed countries. Norovirus is the leading cause of gastroenteritis among adults in America accounting for about 90% of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks. These localized epidemics typically occur when groups of people spend time proximate to each other, such as on cruise ships , in hospitals, or in restaurants. People may remain infectious even after their diarrhea has ended. Norovirus

11868-498: The cells within blood – a condition characterized by enlarged vessels packed with cells. Stasis allows leukocytes to marginate (move) along the endothelium , a process critical to their recruitment into the tissues. Normal flowing blood prevents this, as the shearing force along the periphery of the vessels moves cells in the blood into the middle of the vessel. * non-exhaustive list The cellular component involves leukocytes , which normally reside in blood and must move into

12006-425: The consumption of certain types of spoiled fish, tetrodotoxin poisoning from the consumption of puffer fish among others, and botulism typically due to improperly preserved food. In the United States, rates of emergency department use for noninfectious gastroenteritis dropped 30% from 2006 until 2011. Of the twenty most common conditions seen in the emergency department, rates of noninfectious gastroenteritis had

12144-524: The developing and developed world by as much as 30%. Alcohol-based gels may also be effective. Food or drink that is thought to be contaminated should be avoided. Breastfeeding is important, especially in places with poor hygiene, as is improvement of hygiene generally. Breast milk reduces both the frequency of infections and their duration. Due to both its effectiveness and safety, in 2009 the World Health Organization recommended that

12282-484: The developing world, children less than two years of age frequently get six or more infections a year that result in significant gastroenteritis. It is less common in adults, partly due to the development of acquired immunity . In 1980, gastroenteritis from all causes caused 4.6 million deaths in children, with the majority occurring in the developing world. Death rates were reduced significantly (to approximately 1.5 million deaths annually) by 2000, largely due to

12420-567: The developing world. Antiemetic medications may be helpful for treating vomiting in children. Ondansetron has some utility, with a single dose being associated with less need for intravenous fluids, fewer hospitalizations, and decreased vomiting. Metoclopramide might also be helpful. However, the use of ondansetron might possibly be linked to an increased rate of return to hospital in children. The intravenous preparation of ondansetron may be given orally if clinical judgment warrants. Dimenhydrinate , while reducing vomiting, does not appear to have

12558-438: The development and propagation of inflammation, defects in leukocyte functionality often result in a decreased capacity for inflammatory defense with subsequent vulnerability to infection. Dysfunctional leukocytes may be unable to correctly bind to blood vessels due to surface receptor mutations, digest bacteria ( Chédiak–Higashi syndrome ), or produce microbicides ( chronic granulomatous disease ). In addition, diseases affecting

12696-685: The development of pathogenic antibodies may depend on the presence of other strains of bacteria in the bowel. It has been suggested that a poor injection technique may also cause a direct injury to the axillary nerves adjacent to the injection site in deltoid muscle that may lead to peripheral neuropathy. The consequent vaccine transfection and translation in the nerves may spur an immune response against nerve cells potentially causing an autoimmune nerve damage, leading to conditions like Guillain–Barré syndrome. The diagnosis of Guillain–Barré syndrome depends on findings such as rapid development of muscle paralysis, absent reflexes, absence of fever, and absence of

12834-525: The diagnosis can be difficult and the condition is often initially mistaken (sometimes for up to two weeks) for other causes of pains and difficulty walking, such as viral infections, or bone and joint problems. On neurological examination , characteristic features are the reduced strength of muscles and reduced or absent tendon reflexes ( hypo- or areflexia , respectively). However, a small proportion have normal reflexes in affected limbs before developing areflexia, and some may have exaggerated reflexes. In

12972-442: The different types of Guillain–Barré syndrome. Needle electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies may be performed. In the first two weeks, these investigations may not show any abnormality. Neurophysiology studies are not required for the diagnosis. Formal criteria exist for each of the main subtypes of Guillain–Barré syndrome (AIDP and AMAN/AMSAN, see below), but these may misclassify some cases (particularly where there

13110-642: The disease . Treatment is generally the same with or without a definitive diagnosis, so testing to confirm is usually not needed. For young children in impoverished countries, prevention includes hand washing with soap, drinking clean water , breastfeeding babies instead of using formula , and proper disposal of human waste . The rotavirus vaccine is recommended as a prevention for children. Treatment involves getting enough fluids. For mild or moderate cases, this can typically be achieved by drinking oral rehydration solution (a combination of water, salts and sugar). In those who are breastfed, continued breastfeeding

13248-417: The efficacy of the phagocytic process, enhancing the lysosomal elimination of the infective agent. * non-exhaustive list Specific patterns of acute and chronic inflammation are seen during particular situations that arise in the body, such as when inflammation occurs on an epithelial surface, or pyogenic bacteria are involved. Inflammatory abnormalities are a large group of disorders that underlie

13386-473: The elderly: the relative risk increases by 20% for every decade of life. Men are more likely to develop Guillain–Barré syndrome than women; the relative risk for men is 1.78 compared to women. The distribution of subtypes varies between countries. In Europe and the United States, 60–80% of people with Guillain–Barré syndrome have the demyelinating subtype (AIDP), and AMAN affects only a small number (6–7%). In Asia and Central and South America, that proportion

13524-683: The exception that foods high in simple sugars should be avoided. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast and tea) is no longer recommended, as it contains insufficient nutrients and has no benefit over normal feeding. A Cochrane Review from 2020 concludes that probiotics make little or no difference to people who have diarrhea lasting 2 days or longer and that there is no proof that they reduce its duration. They may be useful in preventing and treating antibiotic associated diarrhea . Fermented milk products (such as yogurt ) are similarly beneficial. Zinc supplementation appears to be effective in both treating and preventing diarrhea among children in

13662-441: The eye muscles . In 8%, the weakness affects only the legs (paraplegia or paraparesis). Involvement of the muscles that control the bladder and anus is unusual. In total, about a third of people with Guillain–Barré syndrome continue to be able to walk. Once the weakness has stopped progressing, it persists at a stable level ("plateau phase") before improvement occurs. The plateau phase can take between two days and six months, but

13800-430: The factors that promote chronic inflammation. A 2014 study reported that 60% of Americans had at least one chronic inflammatory condition, and 42% had more than one. Common signs and symptoms that develop during chronic inflammation are: As defined, acute inflammation is an immunovascular response to inflammatory stimuli, which can include infection or trauma. This means acute inflammation can be broadly divided into

13938-513: The form featuring pure ataxia and the type causing pharyngeal-cervical-brachial weakness. The axonal subtype was first described in 1986. Diagnostic criteria were developed in the late 1970s after the series of cases associated with swine flu vaccination. These were refined in 1990. The case definition was revised by the Brighton Collaboration for vaccine safety in 2009, but is mainly intended for research. Plasma exchange

14076-468: The function of the autonomic nervous system , which can lead to dangerous abnormalities in heart rate and blood pressure . Although the cause is unknown, the underlying mechanism involves an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves and damages their myelin insulation. Sometimes this immune dysfunction is triggered by an infection or, less commonly, by surgery, and by vaccination . The diagnosis

14214-421: The harmful stimulus (e.g. bacteria) and compromise the survival of the organism. However inflammation can also have negative effects. Too much inflammation, in the form of chronic inflammation, is associated with various diseases, such as hay fever , periodontal disease , atherosclerosis , and osteoarthritis . Inflammation can be classified as acute or chronic . Acute inflammation is the initial response of

14352-588: The illness and described the key diagnostic abnormality—albuminocytological dissociation—of increased spinal fluid protein concentration but a normal cell count. C. Miller Fisher described the variant that bears his name in 1956. British neurologist Edwin Bickerstaff described the encephalitis type in 1951 and made further contributions with another paper in 1957. Guillain had reported on some of these features before their full description in 1938. Further subtypes have been described since then, such as

14490-400: The inflamed tissue via extravasation to aid in inflammation. Some act as phagocytes , ingesting bacteria, viruses, and cellular debris. Others release enzymatic granules that damage pathogenic invaders. Leukocytes also release inflammatory mediators that develop and maintain the inflammatory response. In general, acute inflammation is mediated by granulocytes , whereas chronic inflammation

14628-483: The inflammation involves the parietal pleura , which does have pain-sensitive nerve endings . Heat and redness are due to increased blood flow at body core temperature to the inflamed site. Swelling is caused by accumulation of fluid. The fifth sign, loss of function , is believed to have been added later by Galen , Thomas Sydenham or Rudolf Virchow . Examples of loss of function include pain that inhibits mobility, severe swelling that prevents movement, having

14766-434: The initial symptoms are changes in sensation or pain often in the back along with muscle weakness, beginning in the feet and hands, often spreading to the arms and upper body. The symptoms may develop over hours to a few weeks. During the acute phase, the disorder can be life-threatening, with about 15% of people developing weakness of the breathing muscles requiring mechanical ventilation . Some are affected by changes in

14904-597: The introduction and widespread use of oral rehydration therapy . In the US, infections causing gastroenteritis are the second most common infection (after the common cold ), and they result in between 200 and 375 million cases of acute diarrhea and approximately ten thousand deaths annually, with 150 to 300 of these deaths in children less than five years of age. Gastroenteritis is associated with many colloquial names, including " Montezuma's revenge ", "Delhi belly", "la turista", and "back door sprint", among others. It has played

15042-464: The largest decrease in visits in that time period. Gastroenteritis is defined as vomiting or diarrhea due to inflammation of the small or large bowel , often due to infection. The changes in the small bowel are typically noninflammatory, while the ones in the large bowel are inflammatory. The number of pathogens required to cause an infection varies from as few as one (for Cryptosporidium ) to as many as 10 (for Vibrio cholerae ). Gastroenteritis

15180-441: The leading bacterial causes of gastroenteritis worldwide. Gastroenteritis is usually an acute and self-limiting disease that does not require medication. The preferred treatment in those with mild to moderate dehydration is oral rehydration therapy (ORT). For children at risk of dehydration from vomiting, taking a single dose of the anti vomiting medication metoclopramide or ondansetron , may be helpful, and butylscopolamine

15318-513: The local vasculature. Macrophages and endothelial cells release nitric oxide . These mediators vasodilate and permeabilize the blood vessels , which results in the net distribution of blood plasma from the vessel into the tissue space. The increased collection of fluid into the tissue causes it to swell ( edema ). This exuded tissue fluid contains various antimicrobial mediators from the plasma such as complement , lysozyme , antibodies , which can immediately deal damage to microbes, and opsonise

15456-509: The majority of cases. Recovery may take weeks to years, with about a third having some permanent weakness. Globally, death occurs in approximately 7.5% of those affected. Guillain–Barré syndrome is rare, at 1 or 2 cases per 100,000 people every year. The illness that afflicted US President Franklin D. Roosevelt , and left him paralysed from the waist down, which was believed at the time to be polio , may in fact have been Guillain–Barré syndrome, according to more recent research. The syndrome

15594-511: The microbes in preparation for the cellular phase. If the inflammatory stimulus is a lacerating wound, exuded platelets , coagulants , plasmin and kinins can clot the wounded area using vitamin K-dependent mechanisms and provide haemostasis in the first instance. These clotting mediators also provide a structural staging framework at the inflammatory tissue site in the form of a fibrin lattice – as would construction scaffolding at

15732-543: The most common duration is a week. Pain-related symptoms affect more than half, and include back pain , painful tingling, muscle pain , and pain in the head and neck relating to irritation of the lining of the brain. Many people with Guillain–Barré syndrome have experienced the signs and symptoms of an infection in the 3–6 weeks before the onset of the neurological symptoms. This may consist of upper respiratory tract infection (rhinitis, sore throat), or diarrhea . In children, particularly those younger than six years old,

15870-406: The most critical effects of inflammatory stimuli on cancer cells. This capacity of a mediator of inflammation to influence the effects of steroid hormones in cells is very likely to affect carcinogenesis. On the other hand, due to the modular nature of many steroid hormone receptors, this interaction may offer ways to interfere with cancer progression, through targeting of a specific protein domain in

16008-553: The number of circulating infections. Since 2000, the implementation of a rotavirus vaccination program in the United States has substantially decreased the number of cases of diarrhea by as much as 80 percent. The first dose of vaccine should be given to infants between 6 and 15 weeks of age. The oral cholera vaccine has been found to be 50–60% effective over two years. There are a number of vaccines against gastroenteritis in development. For example, vaccines against Shigella and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), which are two of

16146-488: The onset of an infection, burn, or other injuries, these cells undergo activation (one of the PRRs recognize a PAMP or DAMP) and release inflammatory mediators responsible for the clinical signs of inflammation. Vasodilation and its resulting increased blood flow causes the redness ( rubor ) and increased heat ( calor ). Increased permeability of the blood vessels results in an exudation (leakage) of plasma proteins and fluid into

16284-411: The origin of cancer was at sites of chronic inflammation. As of 2012, chronic inflammation was estimated to contribute to approximately 15% to 25% of human cancers. Guillain%E2%80%93Barr%C3%A9 syndrome Guillain–Barré syndrome ( GBS ) is a rapid-onset muscle weakness caused by the immune system damaging the peripheral nervous system . Typically, both sides of the body are involved, and

16422-539: The other is present. This may be accompanied by abdominal cramps. Signs and symptoms usually begin 12–72 hours after contracting the infectious agent. If due to a virus, the condition usually resolves within one week. Some viral infections also involve fever , fatigue, headache and muscle pain . If the stool is bloody , the cause is less likely to be viral and more likely to be bacterial. Some bacterial infections cause severe abdominal pain and may persist for several weeks. Children infected with rotavirus usually make

16560-870: The person exhibits only vomiting or diarrhea (rather than both). Appendicitis may present with vomiting, abdominal pain, and a small amount of diarrhea in up to 33% of cases. This is in contrast to the large amount of diarrhea that is typical of gastroenteritis. Infections of the lungs or urinary tract in children may also cause vomiting or diarrhea. Classical diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) presents with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, but without diarrhea. One study found that 17% of children with DKA were initially diagnosed as having gastroenteritis. A supply of easily accessible uncontaminated water and good sanitation practices are important for reducing rates of infection and clinically significant gastroenteritis. Personal hygiene measures (such as hand washing with soap) have been found to decrease rates of gastroenteritis in both

16698-537: The person is not willing to drink them. A nasogastric tube can be used in young children to administer fluids if warranted. In those who require intravenous fluids, one to four hours' worth is often sufficient. It is recommended that breast-fed infants continue to be nursed in the usual fashion, and that formula-fed infants continue their formula immediately after rehydration with ORT. Lactose-free or lactose-reduced formulas usually are not necessary. Children should continue their usual diet during episodes of diarrhea with

16836-501: The phagolysosomes then kill microbes inside the phagocyte. Phagocytic efficacy can be enhanced by opsonization . Plasma derived complement C3b and antibodies that exude into the inflamed tissue during the vascular phase bind to and coat the microbial antigens. As well as endocytic PRRs, phagocytes also express opsonin receptors Fc receptor and complement receptor 1 (CR1), which bind to antibodies and C3b, respectively. The co-stimulation of endocytic PRR and opsonin receptor increases

16974-492: The plasma membrane occurs in a way that endocytoses the plasma membrane containing the PRR-PAMP complex, and the microbe. Phosphatidylinositol and Vps34 - Vps15 - Beclin1 signalling pathways have been implicated to traffic the endocytosed phagosome to intracellular lysosomes , where fusion of the phagosome and the lysosome produces a phagolysosome. The reactive oxygen species , superoxides and hypochlorite bleach within

17112-491: The protein and the cell count are elevated . Elevated CSF protein levels are found in approximately 50% of patients in the first 3 days after onset of weakness, which increases to 80% after the first week. Repeating the lumbar puncture during the disease course is not recommended. The protein levels may rise after treatment has been administered. Directly assessing nerve conduction of electrical impulses can exclude other causes of acute muscle weakness, as well as distinguish

17250-649: The rainy season and outbreaks are more common at this time. In areas with four seasons , infections are more common in the winter. Worldwide, bottle-feeding of babies with improperly sanitized bottles is a significant cause. Transmission rates are also related to poor hygiene, (especially among children), in crowded households, and in those with poor nutritional status. Adults who have developed immunities might still carry certain organisms without exhibiting symptoms. Thus, adults can become natural reservoirs of certain diseases. While some agents (such as Shigella ) only occur in primates , others (such as Giardia ) may occur in

17388-465: The risk of GBS overall by lowering the risk of catching influenza. In the United States, GBS after seasonal influenza vaccination is listed on the federal government's vaccine injury table . On March 24, 2021, after reviewing several post-marketing observational studies, where an increased risk of Guillain–Barré syndrome was observed after 42 days following vaccination with the Zoster vaccine Shingrix,

17526-501: The risk of GBS; different forms of the bacteria have different lipopolysaccharides on their surface, and some may induce illness (see below) while others will not. Links between other infections and GBS are less certain. Two other herpes viruses ( Epstein–Barr virus /HHV-4 and varicella zoster virus /HHV-3) and the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae have been associated with GBS. GBS is known to occur after influenza, and influenza vaccination has been demonstrated to be associated with

17664-417: The same agents cause gastroenteritis in cats and dogs as in humans. The most common organisms are Campylobacter , Clostridioides difficile , Clostridium perfringens , and Salmonella . A large number of toxic plants may also cause symptoms. Some agents are more specific to a certain species. Transmissible gastroenteritis coronavirus (TGEV) occurs in pigs resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. It

17802-482: The stimulus has been removed. Chronic inflammation is inflammation that lasts for months or years. Macrophages, lymphocytes , and plasma cells predominate in chronic inflammation, in contrast to the neutrophils that predominate in acute inflammation. Diabetes , cardiovascular disease , allergies , and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are examples of diseases mediated by chronic inflammation. Obesity , smoking, stress and insufficient diet are some of

17940-410: The tissue ( edema ), which manifests itself as swelling ( tumor ). Some of the released mediators such as bradykinin increase the sensitivity to pain ( hyperalgesia , dolor ). The mediator molecules also alter the blood vessels to permit the migration of leukocytes, mainly neutrophils and macrophages , to flow out of the blood vessels (extravasation) and into the tissue. The neutrophils migrate along

18078-462: The trachea and breathing support through mechanical ventilation , generally on an intensive care unit . The need for ventilatory support can be anticipated by measurement of two spirometry -based breathing tests: the forced vital capacity (FVC) and the negative inspiratory force (NIF). An FVC of less than 15 mL per kilogram body weight or an NIF of less than 60  cmH 2 O are considered markers of severe respiratory failure. While pain

18216-771: The treatment of atherosclerosis have focused on addressing inflammation directly. New anti-inflammatory drugs, such as monoclonal antibodies targeting IL-1β, have been studied in large clinical trials, showing promising results in reducing cardiovascular events. These drugs offer a potential new avenue for treatment, particularly for patients who do not respond adequately to statins. However, concerns about long-term safety and cost remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Inflammatory processes can be triggered by negative cognition or their consequences, such as stress, violence, or deprivation. Negative cognition may therefore contribute to inflammation, which in turn can lead to depression. A 2019 meta-analysis found that chronic inflammation

18354-1042: The underlying mechanisms of atherogenesis . Clinical studies have shown that this emerging biology of inflammation in atherosclerosis applies directly to people. For instance, elevation in markers of inflammation predicts outcomes of people with acute coronary syndromes , independently of myocardial damage. In addition, low-grade chronic inflammation, as indicated by levels of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein , prospectively defines risk of atherosclerotic complications, thus adding to prognostic information provided by traditional risk factors, such as LDL levels. Moreover, certain treatments that reduce coronary risk also limit inflammation. Notably, lipid-lowering medications such as statins have shown anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to their efficacy beyond just lowering LDL levels. This emerging understanding of inflammation’s role in atherosclerosis has had significant clinical implications, influencing both risk stratification and therapeutic strategies. Recent developments in

18492-428: The use of antibiotics in young children who have both bloody diarrhea and fever. Antimotility medication has a theoretical risk of causing complications, and although clinical experience has shown this to be unlikely, these drugs are discouraged in people with bloody diarrhea or diarrhea that is complicated by fever. Loperamide , an opioid analogue, is commonly used for the symptomatic treatment of diarrhea. Loperamide

18630-519: The word is used to imply a microbial invasive cause for the observed inflammatory reaction. Inflammation , on the other hand, describes just the body's immunovascular response, regardless of cause. But, because the two are often correlated , words ending in the suffix -itis (which means inflammation) are sometimes informally described as referring to infection: for example, the word urethritis strictly means only "urethral inflammation", but clinical health care providers usually discuss urethritis as

18768-761: The world. In the United Kingdom this is provided by GAIN (Guillain–Barré and Associated Inflammatory Neuropathies), in the USA it is provided by GBS/CIDP Foundation International, and in The European Union by a range of organisations under the umbrella of EPODIN (European Patient Organization for Disimmune & Inflammatory Neuropathies). Guillain–Barré syndrome can lead to death as a result of many complications: severe infections, blood clots, and cardiac arrest likely due to autonomic neuropathy. Despite optimum care, this occurs in about 5% of cases. There

18906-403: Was first used in 1978, and its benefit was confirmed in larger studies in 1985. Intravenous immunoglobulins were introduced in 1988, and studies in the early 1990s demonstrated that they were no less effective than plasma exchange. The understanding of the disease mechanism of Guillain–Barré syndrome has evolved in recent years. Development of new treatments has been limited since immunotherapy

19044-509: Was introduced in the 1980s and 1990s. Current research is aimed at demonstrating whether some people who have received IVIg might benefit from a second course if the antibody levels measured in blood after treatment have shown only a small increase. Studies of the immunosuppressive drugs mycophenolate mofetil , brain-derived neurotrophic factor and interferon beta (IFN-β) have not demonstrated benefit to support their widespread use. An animal model (experimental autoimmune neuritis in rats)

#429570