Shigella is a bacterium that causes shigellosis, an infection that results in dysentery or watery diarrhea. The initial symptoms are low-grade fever and diarrhea occurring about one to two days after exposure to the bacteria. Common sources of infection include water contaminated by human waste and contaminated food.
Symptoms
Apart from the watery diarrhea and dehydration, shigella can cause neurological symptoms in children. Most commonly, this is in the form of seizures, confusion and a stiff neck.
Causes
The cause of seizures associated with shigellosis is thought to be the release of a toxin by the bacterium called shiga-toxin.
Features
The toxin has an affinity for brain cells, which can lead to irritation of the brain and the development of seizures.
Febrile seizures
Shigellosis also can cause febrile seizures, which result from a sudden rise in the body's temperature as a result of the infection, most commonly in children between 6 months and 6-years of age.
Considerations
Other potential causes of seizures in children with shigellosis include dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, such as low sodium.
