Diseases of the small and large bowel

Abstract

After upper respiratory tract infections, acute gastroenteritis is the most common illness in the United States. Most cases are brief and self-limited. However, the attack rate is estimated at 1.5-1.9 attacks per person per year and is ultimately responsible for 10,000 deaths per year nationally [1]. Viral organisms are the most common cause of infectious diarrhea; however, the bacterial pathogens, non-typhoidal, and account for the most severe episodes. Protozoal gastroenteritis caused by and is common in travelers and may cause intermittent symptoms.