Prolonged Norovirus Gastroenteritis in an Immunocompromised Patient

 

Patients at risk:

(1) immunodeficiencies, hereditary or acquired

(2) HIV

(3) stem cell transplant

(4) organ transplant recipient

(5) cancer chemotherapy

 

Features:

(1) chronic gastroenteritis with chronic viral shedding for weeks, months or years

(2) potential for malnutrition

(3) disability associated with chronic diarrhea

(4) delayed recovery with prolonged hospital stays

(5) recovery associated with restoration of immune function or reduction in immunosuppression

 

RT-PCR can be used to monitor the stool for shedding.