Diagnostic and Therapeutic Considerations Towards Dientamoeba fragilis in Children: A Survey Amongst General Practitioners and Pediatricians in the Netherlands. Issue 6 (13th December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Kalleveen, Michael W.; van Bergen, Merel; Benninga, Marc A.; Savelkoul, Paul H.M.; Plötz, Frans B.; de Meij, Tim G.J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition. Volume 73:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: e121
• Page End: e125
• Publication Date: 2021-12-13
• Subjects: children -- diagnostics -- Dientamoeba fragilis -- management -- therapy; Children -- Nutrition -- Periodicals; Pediatric gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Infants -- Nutrition -- Periodicals; Nutrition disorders in children -- Periodicals; Child Nutrition -- Periodicals; Digestive System -- growth & development -- Periodicals; Gastrointestinal Diseases -- Periodicals; Infant Nutrition -- Periodicals; Nutrition Disorders -- Periodicals; Child; 618.923
• DOI: 10.1097/MPG.0000000000003297
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0277-2116

Abstract

Abstract : Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text Abstract : ABSTRACT: This survey was undertaken to obtain insight in the attitude of Dutch physicians towards pathogenicity, diagnostic- and therapeutic approach towards Dientamoeba fragilis in children. Physicians were invited by e-mail for a questionnaire. A total of 211 of 450 physicians (46.9%) completed the questionnaire, including 67 general practitioners (GPs) and 144 pediatricians. Of all respondents, 175 of 211 (82.9%) considered D fragilis a "potential pathogen", when other causes of gastro-intestinal complaints are ruled out. Only 16 of 211 (7.6%) performed diagnostic tests regularly. Diagnostic tests were performed by 162 of 211 (77%) of respondents in children with diarrhea and abdominal pain in consideration of duration of symptoms. Fecal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was diagnostic modality of preference. Eighty-nine of 142 (62.7%) prescribed metronidazole as antibiotic of first choice. This study shows heterogeneity in clinical practice amongst Dutch physicians regarding diagnostic- and therapeutic approach of D fragilis in children. Different attitude towards pathogenicity and inconsistent guidelines could be causative factors.