Clinical Profile Of Acute Viral Gastroenteritis In Adults – A One Year Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and objectives ABSTRACT It is now appreciated that viruses are the most common cause of diarrhoeal illness worldwide. Viruses like rotavirus and adenovirus are the most common causative agents of acute viral gastroenteritis. The present study was aimed to investigate the etiology and clinical profile among adult patients with acute viral gastroenteritis. Methodology This one year hospital based cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belgaum. A total of 100 patients presenting with passage of more than three stools per day with decrease in stool consistency, increase in stool urgency and/or vomiting and/or abdominal discomfort from January 2011 to December 2011 were studied. The diagnosis of viral etiology ( Rota virus, Adeno virus and co-infection ) was determined by Rapid kit test. Results In this study most of the patients ( 41% ) had age less than 30 years followed by 30 to 45 years ( 33% ) . Acute gastroenteritis was present in 51% and 49% males. The most common symptoms were diarrhea ( 100% ) followed by vomiting ( 51% ) . Based on skin elasticity, tongue appearance and patient appearance 37% of patient had signs of dehydration. Abnormal blood urea and serum creatinine levels were observed in 66% and 50% of patients. Abnormal IV liver functions were reported in 89%, abnormal renal function in 73% and electrolyte imbalance was noted in 12%. Conclusion and interpretation The overall prevalence of viral gastroenteritis was 26%. Viral gastroenteritis was significantly associated with symptoms of vomiting, fever, reduced urine output, signs of dehydration, abnormal liver and renal function tests ( p<0.050) .