Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC)

Definition

Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) is a type of Escherichia coli that produces toxins leading to traveler's diarrhea. It is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ETEC is a major cause of traveler's diarrhea, especially in developing countries.
2. The bacteria produce two main types of enterotoxins: heat-labile toxin (LT) and heat-stable toxin (ST).
3. Symptoms typically include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.
4. Diagnosis is often made based on clinical symptoms and history of recent travel, but may be confirmed with stool cultures or PCR testing.
5. Prevention includes practicing good hygiene and consuming safe food and water; there are currently no widely available vaccines.

Review Questions

• What are the primary toxins produced by Enterotoxigenic E. coli?
• How is ETEC typically transmitted?
• What are common symptoms associated with an ETEC infection?

Related terms

Escherichia coli:

A diverse group of bacteria found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals.

Traveler's Diarrhea: A digestive tract disorder commonly caused by bacterial pathogens like ETEC, affecting individuals traveling to certain regions.

Heat-Labile Toxin (LT): A protein toxin produced by some strains of E. coli that is sensitive to heat.