Detection of Gastrointestinal Coinfections using the FilmArray® GI Panel in Patients with Diarrhoeal Disease in Mexicali, Baja California

Introduction and objectives: The diagnosis and treatment of diarrhoea of infectious origin has evolved in the last decade with the incorporation of new diagnostic techniques that offer rapid results. The aim of this study was to describe the results obtained using the FilmArray® GI Panel in a population of northwestern Mexico (Mexicali, Baja California), with emphasis on the detection of co-infections. Material and methods: An observational and retrospective study was conducted in two local reference laboratories (Lozano Laboratory and Dorado Laboratory) with patients seen in private practice, carried out between January and October 2023 in Mexicali, Baja California. Results: A total of 145 bacteria, 19 protozoa and 46 viruses were detected. The main microorganisms involved were enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC), Norovirus and enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC). Co-infections were identified in 50 patients, mainly in patients aged 31-50 years. Conclusions: Coinfections were identified in 50 patients, mainly between 31-50 years of age, which leads us to believe that there is a direct relationship between their illness and their eating habits. Food contamination is a public health problem around the world and persists in the Mexicali community.