Dr. Jessica Pelletier and Dr. Kamoga Dickson discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, management, and prevention of cholera.

Take-Home Points:

• Cholera is a disease with high morbidity that disproportionately affects sub-Saharan Africa
• The O1 and O139 serogroups of V. cholera make cholera toxin and cause the disease
• Colonization happens in the small intestine, so higher volumes of bacteria that make it to the small intestine are more likely to cause disease
• The classic presentation involves rice water stools and dehydration, but vomiting is also possible
• Patients with mild to moderate dehydration should receive oral rehydration, and those with severe dehydration should receive balanced IV fluids (where available)
• Severe cases need antibiotics based on local guidelines
• Prevention involves sanitation measures and vaccination

You can view the full show notes and references here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HCMld8vCdiPMRSAdSeWu2VWZFBhEF15Nvrsa_ov9YuA/edit?usp=sharing

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