The microbial etiologies of acute gastroenteritis in hospitalized children in Taiwan

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Viral infections are the most common causes of acute infectious diarrhea in the pediatric population. To explore any possible viral etiologies of acute gastroenteritis in children, we detected stool viral antigen including rotavirus, adenovirus, norovirus and astrovirus. Also, we studies the possible precipitating factors. Methods: During a period of one year (from October 2003 to September 2004) , children from birth to 15 years old admitted to ward were prospectively surveyed. Stool specimens were collected within 48 hours after admission and then frozen at – 40°C until analysis. Enzyme immunoassay was applied to detect for rotavirus, astrovirus, norovirus and adenovirus. Bacterial culture was done in the same time. was applied to detect for rotavirus, astrovirus, norovirus and adenovirus. Bacterial culture was done in the same time.