What is the best way to evaluate acute diarrhea?

Abstract

Limited evidence delineates the relative probabilities of causes of acute diarrhea, typically defined as a diarrheal disease lasting 14 days or fewer, in the developed world. Viruses (rotavirus, Norwalk, and other enteric viruses) are responsible for most cases. Stool culture helps to identify bacterial causes (Salmonella, Shigella, enterotoxic Escherichia coli), especially in patients with fever and bloody stool. A modified 3-day rule (eg, performing only Clostridium difficile toxin tests on low-risk patients who have been hospitalized for 3 or more days) leads to a more rational use of stool cultures without missing cases of clinically significant disease. (Grade of recommendation: D, based on limited studies, reliance on expert opinion, and consensus.)