Clinical Profile and Outcomes of Acute Gastroenteritis in Children Under Five Years in a Resource-Limited Setting

Background: Acute gastroenteritis remains to be one of the primary causes of morbidity and mortality in children under the age of five, especially in low- and middle-income countries with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare facilities. Early detection of clinical severity and adequate care are critical to avoiding complications and lowering mortality. Objectives: To evaluate the clinical profile, laboratory findings, management practices, and outcomes of acute gastroenteritis among children under five years of age in a resource-limited setting. Methods: A hospital-based observational study was conducted at Al-Khansaa Teaching Hospital in Mosul, Iraq, between January and December 2025. The study included 200 children aged 1–59 months presenting with symptoms of acute gastroenteritis lasting less than 14 days. Data collected included demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, duration of symptoms, dehydration status, nutritional status, laboratory findings, treatment modalities, and patient outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 30, and results were presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: The mean age of the patients was 24.6 ± 13.2 months, with males representing 55% of cases. Rural residence was reported in 60% of children. Diarrhea was present in all patients, followed by vomiting (80.5%) and fever (59%). Most patients had symptoms lasting 1–7 days (90%). Some dehydration was observed in 50.5% of patients, while severe dehydration occurred in 23.5%. Mild-to-moderate malnutrition was present in 30% and severe malnutrition in 9% of children. Among those investigated, leukocytosis was detected in 42.5%, while hyponatremia and hypokalemia were found in 34.4% and 30% respectively. Regarding management, antibiotics were administered to 79% of patients, intravenous fluids to 68%, zinc supplementation to 61.5%, and oral rehydration solution to 35.5%. Most patients recovered without complications (91%), while 8.5% developed complications and mortality occurred in one patient (0.5%). Conclusion: Acute gastroenteritis is a severe health burden for children under the age of five, especially in rural areas. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance are still common problems. Early detection, proper rehydration therapy, nutritional assistance, and rational antibiotic usage are critical to improving outcomes. To lower illness burden, it is advised that preventive techniques be strengthened, such as health education and improved sanitation.