Bacterial and protozoan intestinal infections in children

Infectious gastroenteritis is one of the most common acute diseases in young children. Depending on history of recent travel or presence of co-morbidities, bacterial or protozoan pathogens play an important role alongside the more frequent enteric viruses. Uncomplicated cases usually improve rapidly with rehydration, replacement of electrolyte losses, and symptomatic treatment. However, in severe or protracted cases further investigation of the infective agent is necessary and anti-infective treatment may be indicated. We present an overview primarily of the different non-viral pathogens as well as indications and possibilities for anti-infective treatment.