Inflammation of the internal layer of the intestine or mucosa caused by an infection.
It is commonly caused by a virus (norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus and astrovirus) but it can also be bacterial or parasitic. It is contracted after consuming contaminated water or foods.
It manifests as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, headache, general discomfort, fever and chills.
Diagnosis is obtained through questioning and a physical examination; it may be necessary to perform blood and stool tests to study the severity and the causal agent of the clinical picture.
Generally it is a disease which limits itself without any need for treatment. If necessary, symptomatic treatment should be performed and correct hydration ensured. Antiemetic drugs for vomiting can be also added.
- David O Matson. Acute viral gastroenteritis in children in resource-rich countries: Clinical features and diagnosis. UpToDate. Agosto 2016
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Diarrhoea and vomiting in children: Diarrhoea and vomiting caused by gastroenteritis: diagnosis, assessment and management in children younger than 5 years.
- David O Matson. Acute viral gastroenteritis in children in resource-rich countries: Management and prevention. UpToDate. Abril 2016
- King CK, Glass R, Bresee JS, et al. Managing acute gastroenteritis among children: oral rehydration, maintenance, and nutritional therapy. MMWR Recomm Rep 2003; 52:1.
- Umesh D. Parashar. Gastroenteritis viral. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 227
