Gastroenterology and Liver

Gastrointestinal Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance

Gastrointestinal (GI) infections, caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi, remain a major global health concern, especially in developing regions. This session explores the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of common and emerging GI infections such as Clostridioides difficile, Helicobacter pylori, norovirus, rotavirus, and parasitic infestations. The growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in treating these infections is a key focus, as misuse and overuse of antibiotics continue to reduce treatment effectiveness. Experts will discuss novel diagnostic tools like multiplex PCR panels and rapid antigen detection that support faster identification of pathogens. Additionally, advances in vaccines, phage therapy, microbiome restoration (e.g., fecal microbiota transplantation), and host-targeted therapies offer alternative strategies to tackle resistant pathogens. Public health measures, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship programs are crucial to reducing transmission and resistance rates. This session provides a platform for understanding the global burden of GI infections and innovations in combating AMR in gastroenterology.