Treatment of acute gastroenteritis in private practice: A survey of 641 pediatricians

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is a very common reason for pediatric consultations. Various expert committees have issued guidelines for its management, based on systematic use of an oral rehydration solution (ORS), early appropriate nutrition (most recent previous diet), and avoiding routine treatment with medication. The aim of the study was to assess the application of these guidelines by pediatricians in outpatient practice for mild to moderate AGE. A secondary objective was to question pediatricians about their practices for vaccination against rotavirus. Methods. In June 2012, e-mail requests were sent to 1187 pediatricians in private practice, asking them to complete an anonymous questionnaire online at the website of the French Association of Pediatricians in Outpatient Practice. Results. A total of 641 (54%) responses could be analyzed. Nearly all the pediatricians recommended early resumption of nutrition after administration of ORS. Depending on the child's age, 16 to 23% reported they would recommend resuming feeding with lactose-free milk, and 80% would advise an antidiarrhea diet for children older than 6 months. The drugs prescribed most often were, in decreasing order, racecadotril (acetorphan), diosmectite, and probiotics. Although 90% of the pediatricians prescribed vaccination against rotavirus, 65% estimated that it was performed in more than half of all children. Conclusion. This study of the management of moderate acute gastroenteritis shows variable adhesion to guidelines by pediatricians treating outpatients. Although ORS, maintenance of breastfeeding, and early nutrition after ORS are now widely applied, the type of nutrition recommended often failed to meet guidelines. Drug prescription is still too frequent. Anti-rotavinis vaccine is prescribed often but is administered much less frequently. (C) 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.