Location
Moultrie, GA
Start Date
7-5-2025 1:00 PM
End Date
7-5-2025 4:00 PM
Description
Cryptosporidium parvum is an important infectious cause of watery diarrhea in the general, pediatric, and immune-compromised populations, especially in underdeveloped countries and regions (CDC). Transmission primarily occurs through the ingestion of fecally contaminated water. After ingestion, the parasites invade the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract and begin to multiply through asexual reproduction (CDC). Thus, mucosal immunity, especially by way of IgA, is likely critical in defending the host from infection (Borad). This illness is typically self-limiting in the general population. However, in the immune-compromised, it can lead to chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, and life-threatening wasting (CDC). This prognosis is especially true in the pediatric immune-compromised population, which may experience growth and developmental delays (CDC). Therefore, early diagnosis is paramount in this unique population, so that proper treatment is not delayed. This case study presents the story of a 5-year-old male with a past medical history of IgA deficiency presenting with severe vomiting and diarrhea, with an initially negative infectious work-up, who was eventually diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis. It serves as a reminder to clinicians to remain aware of this diagnosis for immune-compromised patients in rural areas.
Embargo Period
6-3-2025
Included in
A case of cryptosporidiosis in an IgA deficient child
Moultrie, GA
Cryptosporidium parvum is an important infectious cause of watery diarrhea in the general, pediatric, and immune-compromised populations, especially in underdeveloped countries and regions (CDC). Transmission primarily occurs through the ingestion of fecally contaminated water. After ingestion, the parasites invade the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract and begin to multiply through asexual reproduction (CDC). Thus, mucosal immunity, especially by way of IgA, is likely critical in defending the host from infection (Borad). This illness is typically self-limiting in the general population. However, in the immune-compromised, it can lead to chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, and life-threatening wasting (CDC). This prognosis is especially true in the pediatric immune-compromised population, which may experience growth and developmental delays (CDC). Therefore, early diagnosis is paramount in this unique population, so that proper treatment is not delayed. This case study presents the story of a 5-year-old male with a past medical history of IgA deficiency presenting with severe vomiting and diarrhea, with an initially negative infectious work-up, who was eventually diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis. It serves as a reminder to clinicians to remain aware of this diagnosis for immune-compromised patients in rural areas.
Comments
Presented by Preston Hawkins.