Pathophysiology

Nonmodifiable Factors Poverty Environment Blood type O Modifiable Factors Long term antacid intake Improper sanitation techniques Improper handling of food and water Malnutrition

Ingestion of food or water contaminated with Vibrio cholerae Bacteria travel to the small intestine

Cholera bacilli grow and produce cholera toxin (exotoxin) Host cells secrete water and electrolytes, especially potassium

Rice water stools

Early stage: Decreased gastric and intestinal motility

Severe diarrhea Blood becomes viscous, vital organs cannot function properly

Violent vomiting

Isotonic ehydration (12-20 liters fluid loss)

Loss of bicarbonate

Hypovolemic shock

Acute tubular necrosis

Later stage: Acidosis

Renal failure

Violent vomiting

Death