Escherichia coli 0157:H7
Escherichia coli 0157:H7
Microbiology A shiga-like verotoxin-producing serotype of E coli inculpated in outbreaks of hemorrhagic diarrhea, due to undercooked meat in 'fast-food' restaurants Clinical Colic, bloody diarrhea Radiology Submucosal edema, 'thumbprinting'Escherichia coli 0157:H7
Symptoms
Asymptomatic infection is common. In other cases, after the 3- to 8-day incubation period, an afebrile and self-limiting diarrhea occurs; however, the infection may progress to hemorrhagic colitis with bloody diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and low-grade fever. Resolution usually occurs in 1 week. In about 15% of cases, patients develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS); the mortality among patients who develop HUS ranges from 3 to 5%. The highest incidence of HUS is found among children and older adults.
Diagnosis
Without a high index of suspicion, diagnosis in either a lone case or an outbreak may be delayed. To prevent unnecessary diagnostic or therapeutic intervention, such as colonoscopy or colectomy, diagnosis should be made as quickly as possible.
Prevention
Ground meat should be cooked until it reaches a temperature of 160°F (71.1°C) and the meat should not be pink in the center. Leftovers should be reheated to 165°F (73.3°C). Individuals who change a baby's diapers should thoroughly wash their hands immediately afterward. Food handlers must wash their hands after using the toilet.
Patient discussion about Escherichia coli 0157:H7
Q. Can Alcoholism makes you vulnerable to intestine infections? A friend of mine is a heavy drinker, he had something like 5 infections in the past year. Is it connected?