Campylobacter jejuni Infections: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations and Management

Abstract

Campylobacter spp has become one of the most important foodborne pathogens. Moreover, Campylobacter can cause an economic burden on the human population since it can cause about 8.4% of diarrheal cases worldwide. In addition, Campylobacteriosis outbreaks have been reported sporadically in association with untreated drinking water. Water that does not take from a licensed water supplier is considered the main cause of water contamination. The most common risk factor for Campylobacteriosis transmission to humans is raw undercooked chicken. Contamination among poultry may be the result of the environmental conditions inside the farms or chicken factories that could be spread very fast among others. This infection is usually self-limited with no signs or symptoms but it can also present with severe symptoms, including diarrhea that can last for more than one week and can ultimately lead to dehydration, fever, and abdominal pain. However, the main recognized sequelae are Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), Reactive Arthritis (REA), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and rarely Bacteremia. Recently, many cases of Campylobacter spp show important resistance to various antibiotics such as tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. Thus, the prevention and monitoring of this infection play an essential role. Campylobacteriosis is self-limiting, and most of the cases does not need to be treated. Some medical interventions such as electrolytes replacement, as well as hydration may be followed to treat immunocompromised patients, patients suffering from severe symptoms, pregnant women, and the elderly.