Bacterial enteric pathogens and serum interleukin-6 levels in children with acute diarrhea
Abstract: Acute diarrhea is
currently one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in developing
countries. A wide range of enteric pathogens, including bacteria, is
responsible for the pathogenesis of acute infectious diarrhea. Recent studies
have shown an increase in acute phase proteins, such as serum interleukin-6
(IL-6) levels, in patients with acute bacterial gastroenteritis. Thus, IL-6 may
be a useful marker to differentiate bacterial from non-bacterial enteric
pathogens.
Objective To assess for a correlation between bacterial enteric pathogens
and serum IL-6 levels in children with acute diarrhea.
Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study from November 2013 to March
2014 in two hospitals in Manado. Subjects were children aged 1-5 years with
acute diarrhea and good nutritional status. Subjects’ provided stool samples
for bacterial culture and microscopic examination, as well as blood specimens
for serum IL-6 measurements. Data was analyzed by linear regression and
Pearson’s correlation tests for a correlation between bacterial enteric
pathogens and serum IL-6 levels.
Results In children with acute diarrhea, those with bacterial enteric
pathogens had significantly higher mean serum IL-6 than those with
non-bacterial enteric pathogens (r = 0.938; P < 0.001).
Conclusion Serum IL-6 levels are significantly more elevated in children
with acute diarrhea and bacterial enteric pathogens. Therefore, serum IL-6 may
be a useful marker for early identification of bacterial gastroenteritis in
children aged 1-5 years.
Author: Herlina, Jeanette
Irene Manoppo, Adrian Umboh
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg160055