Rotavirus Infection: A Systemic Illness?
Author Information
Author(s): David C. A. Candy
Primary Institution: Royal West Sussex National Health Service Trust
Hypothesis
Is rotavirus infection in children confined to the upper small intestine?
Conclusion
The study found that rotavirus can be present in the blood of children with rotavirus diarrhoea, suggesting it may be a systemic infection.
Supporting Evidence
- 90% of children with rotaviral diarrhoea have rotavirus antigenaemia.
- 12% of children with rotavirus-negative diarrhoea also had rotavirus in their blood.
- All children with rotavirus in the stool had infectious viruses in their plasma.
Takeaway
Doctors used to think rotavirus only affected the gut, but this study shows it can also be found in the blood, which might explain other symptoms.
Methodology
The researchers tested serum samples from children with gastroenteritis and other conditions to check for rotavirus antigens.
Limitations
The impact of rotavirus viremia on clinical manifestations is unknown.
Participant Demographics
Children with gastroenteritis, bronchiolitis, and healthy adults.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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