Problem
Stool smears evaluated for fecal leukocytes revealed only a few white blood cells were present
Stool culture #1 = no Shigella, Salmonella, or Campylo- bacter isolated
Stool culture #2 = no Shigella, Salmonella, or Campylo- bacter isolated
Stool culture #3 = no Shigella, Salmonella, or Campylo- bacter isolated
Blood cultures (all three) = no growth after 7 days
Since this case occurred during early winter, an enzyme immunoassay test for a virus was performed with pos- itive results.
a) What is the most likely diagnosis for this patient?
b) What is the most likely etiological agent?
c) What other test can be used to diagnose this type of infection?
d) What serious consequences may arise if this disease is not diagnosed and treated properly.
e) What treatment options are available for this infection?