Essay On Cholera

Secretory Diarrhea (Cholera)

Abstract: Cholera is an acute, bacterial infection of the small intestine caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. The Vibrio cholerae bacterium, after attacking the human intestine, is responsible for devastating diarrhea resulting in severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The key cause of this is the ADP ribosylation of the human signaling protein Gsα, catalyzed by the cholera toxin, which produces a biochemical cascade. In this review, we will elaborate on the biochemical mechanism of the disorder along with treatment plans and preventative measures of the cholera toxin.

Authors: Giselle Castillo, Steven Diep, Shawna Mattathil, Joel Pious

I. INTRODUCTION

Cholera has been affecting humans for many centuries. Cholera is a severe gastrointestinal disorder that is characterized by severe diarrhea and vomiting. There have been many outbreaks of cholera noted historically, the most important occurring in 19th century England. In 1854, Dr. John Snow performed a study in London that led to his discovery of the disease’s main source. He was able to trace it to the poor sewer, waste, and water management from one of the major water sources of London residents, the “Broad Street pump”. When this water pump was removed, the deaths by cholera slowed and eventually stopped. Although he had not

Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain along with the more severe symptoms - dehydration and diarrhea. Unlike other forms of bacterial gastroenteritis, the diarrhea is not bloody, but instead very watery. Those with Cholera produce a lot of diarrhea over the course of a few days - anywhere between 10-20 liters, the equivalent of 10 bottles of soda. Dehydration occurs because of the water lost through diarrhea. Contaminated food and water are the primary causes of