Spectrum of Diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coliin Paediatric Population Suffering from Diarrhoea and as Commensals in Healthy Children

Background:Diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli(DEC) is associated with early death of children in developing countries and are being identified now as an important evolving pathogen. The objective of this study was to perform multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for simultaneous detection of six categories of DEC in two sets of PCR reactions using 11 virulent genes. Materialsand Methods:During 1-year study period, forty isolates each from outpatient, inpatient and healthy groups were collected from children. E. coliwas identified using conventional biochemical methods. DNA extraction was done using kit, and the extracted DNA was used as a template for multiplex PCR. Results:Virulent genes of DEC were detected in 106 (88.33%) samples. Overall, eltand estwere detected in 8.33% and 30.83% of specimens; typical, atypical enteropathogenic E. coliand bfpwere detected in 13.33%, 29.16% and 19.16% specimens; eaggwas detected in 39.16% and east in 13.33% specimens and stxand hylawere isolated in 1.66% specimens each. While diffusely adherent E. coliand enteroinvasive E. coligenes were not isolated. Conclusion:Multiplex PCR is a rapid method for the simultaneous detection of 11 virulent genes of DEC at a time and it will provide a platform in understanding the diarrheal diseases in a more improved manner.