Shigellosis: A Comprehensive Review: History, Symptoms, Pathophysiology, Cause for the Disease, Diagnosis, Transmission, Epidemiology, Treatment, and Prevention Measures

Margret Chandira  Rajappa; John Kennedy  Susai; Gracy Gladin Solomon; Jitul Adhikary Hem Kanta; Vignesh Vezhaventhan; Pavithra Palanivel

Margret Chandira Rajappa Department of Pharmaceutics, Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
John Kennedy Susai Research scholar, Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
Gracy Gladin Solomon Research scholar, Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
Jitul Adhikary Hem Kanta Research scholar, Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
Vignesh Vezhaventhan Research scholar, Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India
Pavithra Palanivel Research scholar, Vinayaka Mission’s College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Salem, Tamil Nadu, India

Keywords: Shigellosis, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology, Treatment

Abstract

Shigellosis, caused by the bacterium of the genus Shigella, is a significant global public health concern due to its high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in low-resource settings. This review provides a comprehensive overview of shigellosis, encompassing its historical context, clinical manifestations, underlying pathophysiology, and factors contributing to its emergence and spread. The disease primarily manifests with symptoms ranging from mild diarrhoea to severe dysentery, often accompanied by fever and abdominal cramps. Shigella bacteria invade the lining of the intestines, causing inflammation and disrupting normal gastrointestinal function. The disease is predominantly transmitted through faecal-oral routes, emphasising the critical importance of sanitation and hygiene measures in prevention. Epidemiologically, shigellosis exhibits a wide global distribution, with higher incidences observed in regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation
facilities. Prompt diagnosis via stool culture or molecular techniques is essential for effective treatment and public health surveillance. Although
various antibiotics are available for treatment, rising antibiotic resistance
poses a growing challenge. Vaccination presents a promising avenue for
shigellosis prevention; however, the development of an effective and
widely accessible vaccine remains a priority. The review also addresses
practical considerations such as vaccine pricing and safety, particularly
in pregnancy. Understanding the nuances of shigellosis, including its
historical context, clinical presentation, and prevention strategies,
is pivotal in guiding healthcare interventions and policy decisions to
mitigate its impact on global health.

How to cite this article:
Rajappa M C, Susai J K, Solomom G G, Kanta J
A H, Vezhaventhan V, Palanivel P. Shigellosis:
A Comprehensive Review: History, Symptoms,
Pathophysiology, Cause for the Disease,
Diagnosis, Transmission, Epidemiology,
Treatment, and Prevention Measures. J Commun
Dis. 2024;56(4):86-93.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202475

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