Abstract
Introduction: In The pediatric age group, acute gastroenteritis is one the most common reason for hospital presentation. They could be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, or be allergic of nature, and the severity ranges from mild to life threatening, especially in the developing world with a fatality of 2.5 million children under 5 annually.
Aim of the work: In this study, our aim was to review the etiology of acute gastroenteritis, as well as focus on the latest management protocols.
Methodology: we conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE from January 1994 to March 2017. The following search terms were used: acute gastroenteritis, pediatric gastroenteritis, diarrheal disease, pediatric dehydration
Conclusion: The most important measure in children with acute gastroenteritis (regardless of etiology) is maintenance of hydration with appropriate water and electrolytes replacements when needed. Close observation of all cases must be maintained to keep hydration and nutrition balanced. Antiemetics are sometimes needed when the vomiting is severe and leading to worsening of the dehydration and preventing oral rehydration therapy. When suspecting an outbreak, it is essential to perform a fecal microbial analysis.