What is the pathophysiology and ethiological features of dysentery?

Dysentery is an infectious disease of the intestine, characterized by severe diarrhoea with passage of blood and mucus in the stools. It is caused by bacteria or protozoa that invade and damage the intestinal mucosa.

Pathophysiology

The most common cause of dysentery is infection with Shigella bacteria, which are spread through contact with contaminated food or water. Shigella bacteria invade the epithelial cells of the colon and produce toxins that damage the cells and cause inflammation and diarrhoea. The diarrhoea is often accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.

Other causes of dysentery include infection with Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, and Entamoeba histolytica. These organisms can also invade the intestinal mucosa and cause inflammation and diarrhoea.

Etiological features

The main etiological features of dysentery are:

* Infection with Shigella bacteria, Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella, or Entamoeba histolytica

* Contact with contaminated food or water

* Poor sanitation and hygiene

* Crowded living conditions

* Travel to developing countries

Risk factors

People who are at increased risk of developing dysentery include:

* Children under 5 years of age

* People with weakened immune systems

* People who travel to developing countries

* People who live in crowded or unsanitary conditions

Prevention

Dysentery can be prevented by:

* Washing hands frequently with soap and water

* Drinking only clean water

* Avoiding contaminated food

* Practicing good hygiene

* Getting vaccinated against Shigella and typhoid fever (if travelling to a high-risk area)

Treatment

Treatment for dysentery depends on the cause of the infection. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial dysentery, while antiprotozoal drugs are used to treat protozoal dysentery. Treatment may also include fluids and electrolytes to replace those lost through diarrhoea, as well as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.