Viral gastroenteritis in children

Associated with substantial morbidity in developed countries. Continues to be a cause of significant mortality in developing countries.

Presents with vomiting and diarrhea (with or without fever, nausea, or abdominal pain).

Dehydration, which may be associated with electrolyte imbalance and metabolic acidosis, is the most frequent and dangerous complication.

Oral rehydration therapy is the mainstay of treatment.

Self-limiting disease with excellent prognosis if correctly treated.

Viral gastroenteritis is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract by a virus, usually rotavirus. It is usually self-limiting, but if untreated may result in morbidity and mortality secondary to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and metabolic acidosis.[Figure caption and citation for the preceding image starts]: Transmission electron micrograph of intact rotavirus particles, double-shelled. Distinctive rim of radiating capsomeresCDC/Dr Erskine Palmer; used with permission [Citation ends].