An Evaluation of Rotavirus and Adenovirus Antigens by the Immunochromatographic Method in Samples With an Initial Diagnosis of Acute Gastroenteritis

Abstract

Aim: Infectious gastroenteritis is one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality, particularly in children. Rotavirus and enteric adenovirus are among the most common causes of viral diarrhoea among young children worldwide. The aim of this study of samples sent to the laboratory with an initial diagnosis of gastroenteritis was to define the prevalence of rotavirus and enteric adenovirus according to age and seasonal distribution. Materials and methods: The presence of rotavirus and enteric adenovirus antigens was researched using a qualitative immunochromatographic method in stool samples from patients with gastroenteritis who were admitted to Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital between January 2009 and April 2013. Chi-square tests were used for comparisons between groups. Results: Of the 2185 stool samples examined, 343 were determined to be positive for rotavirus antigen and 157 for adenovirus antigen. The highest rate of rotavirus antigen positivity (212 cases, 62%) was seen in the 0-23 months age group. Seasonally, rotavirus gastroenteritis was seen mostly in winter (144 cases, 42%). The highest rate of adenovirus positive samples was determined in the 0-23 month's age group (86 cases, 55%). The distribution of the adenovirus cases in autumn, winter, spring and summer was 54 (34%), 31 (20%), 27 (17%) and 45 (29%) cases, respectively. Sixty-three specimens (3% of cases) were positive for both antigens. Conclusion: As rotavirus and adenovirus were found to be significant factors in gastroenteritis in the 0-23 months age group, in the differential diagnosis of infectious gastroenteritis in this age group of patients, it is important to consider rotavirus as a factor, particularly in the winter months, while adenovirus should be considered in summer and autumn. Rotavirus and adenovirus can be diagnosed quickly by the immunochromatographic test from stool samples, making it possible to prevent the development of dehydration and the unnecessary use of antibiotics.