Approach to Diarrheal Illness for the Medical Missionary

The etiology of diarrheal illness in the mission field differs considerably from that in developed countries and requires a different approach for the short-term or new medical missionary. This talk will prepare the medical missionary to evaluate and manage common diarrheal illnesses seen on the mission field, emphasizing clinical evaluation and diagnosis in conditions of limited laboratory availability. The causes of disease commonly seen on the mission field and clinical clues to their diagnosis will be emphasized. Treatment will be discussed with an emphasis on oral rehydration therapy included.