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Campylobacter Self-Limiting — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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EasyTropical & Imported InfectionsCampylobacter Self-LimitingSCE Infectious Diseases

A 30-year-old man presents with a 5-day history of watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and low-grade fever after attending a barbecue. Stool culture grows Campylobacter jejuni. He is systemically well and improving. Are antibiotics indicated?

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Correct answer: C — No — uncomplicated Campylobacter gastroenteritis in an immunocompetent patient is typically self-limiting; antibiotics are reserved for severe or prolonged illness

Campylobacter gastroenteritis is usually self-limiting (5–7 days) and does not routinely require antibiotics in immunocompetent patients with mild-moderate illness. Antibiotics (Clarithromycin or Erythromycin — NOT Ciprofloxacin due to rising resistance) are indicated for: severe disease, bloody diarrhoea with high fever, immunocompromised patients, or persistent symptoms >1 week. Fluoroquinolone resistance in Campylobacter exceeds 40% in UK isolates. Campylobacter is a notifiable organism. Patients should be counselled about hand hygiene and food safety.

Reference: NICE CKS 2024 – Campylobacter; PHE 2023 – Campylobacter management