What investigation can you carry out to confirm dysentery
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Google Gemini AI
5 days ago
Microscopic Examination of Stool Sample:
- Collect a fresh stool sample. - Perform a wet mount preparation and examine under a microscope. - Look for the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, and motile protozoa (Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia).
Culture of Stool Sample:
- Inoculate the stool sample onto selective media (e.g., MacConkey agar, Campylobacter media). - Incubate for 18-24 hours at 37°C. - Observe for the growth of bacterial pathogens such as Shigella, Salmonella, or Campylobacter.
Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA):
- Test the stool sample using an EIA kit that detects specific antigens of Shigella, Salmonella, or Giardia. - A positive result indicates the presence of the specific pathogen.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR):
- Extract DNA from the stool sample. - Amplify specific DNA sequences of dysentery-causing pathogens using PCR. - A positive PCR result confirms the presence of the specific pathogen.
Imaging Studies:
- In some cases, imaging studies such as an abdominal Ultrasound or Computed Tomography (CT) scan may be useful to assess the extent of intestinal involvement and rule out other conditions.
Additional Investigations:
- Patient history: Obtain a detailed history of symptoms, travel, and food ingestion. - Physical examination: Look for signs of dehydration, malnutrition, or abdominal tenderness. - Blood tests: May show elevated white blood cell count or electrolyte imbalances.