Chronic staphylococcal enteritis in infants

A clinical pattern of digestive tract disorders occurring in infants is described, which appears to be caused by staphylococci. It is felt that the original infection occurs in the neonatal period and that the earlier the diagnosis is made, the more effective treatment is likely to be. While the symptoms are often mild, yet they should not be overlooked, as the disease may be responsible for chronic ill health. It is therefore recommended that in dealing with cases of diarrhea in infants in the first few months of life, stool cultures should be taken with the precise idea of searching for staphylococci.