Analysis index

Pathogen detection: Cherry-sized stool sample,

Antigen demonstration: minimum of 1 ml liquid stools,

Antibody demonstration: 1 ml serum

Serology:         

IgG: < 20 – 24 U/ml

IgA: < 20 – 24 U/ml

Enteritis: Method of choice in acute infections is the pathogen demonstration in stool; Differential diagnosis of arthralgias, Guillain-Barré syndrome (serology).

In accordance with § 7 IfSG, the laboratory has to inform the responsible health authority in case of direct or indirect demonstration, giving the patients name. Certain policies on infected persons working in the food sector or community facilities apply as per § 42 IfSG.

Campylobacter is the most common pathogen of bacterial enteritis in Germany. After an incubation time of 2 – 7 days, there are unspecific prodromal stages with headaches and body aches, followed by high fever and watery enteritis, sometimes even bloody or slimy with colic and bellyaches. Fecal-oral pathogen transmission to humans, especially after having insufficiently cooked meat (i.e. poultry). Further source of infection is close contact to family dogs and cats. Infection often also asymptomatic, with the pathogen being excreted for 2 – 4 weeks.

Aseptic reactive arthritis or Guillain-Barré syndrome may be secondary diseases. For evaluation of these, serological tests are used.