Description
Rotaviruses comprise a genus divided into serological groups (A to E) within the family Reoviridae. Groups A to C infect humans, and all groups infect animals. Rotaviruses are recognised as the major cause of severe acute infantile gastroenteritis. Rotavirus diarrhoea has been attributed to several different mechanisms, including malabsorption secondary to enterocyte destruction, a virus-encoded toxin, stimulation of the enteric nervous system (ENS) and villus ischemia. Recent studies confirm sporadic case reports that rotavirus infection is not confined to the intestine as was generally assumed. See Also Adenovirus, Antigen, Faeces, Stool
Indications
Testing for Rotavirus is useful in the differential diagnosis of viral gastroenteritis in infants and young children.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
Stool ≈ 50 mg Room Temperature, perform immediately after sample collection Stability: up to 2 Days at 2-8 °C
Special Precautions
Collect specimen in leak-proof container. Analyse sample as soon as possible. Collect tested sample by inserting the applicator stick into at least 3 different sites of the feces.
Normal Range
Negative