How is rotavirus infection typically diagnosed?

Rotavirus infection is typically diagnosed by detecting viral capsid antigens in stool samples. This method involves the use of immunoassays, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), which can specifically identify rotavirus proteins in the stool. This approach is favored because it provides a reliable and quick means of confirming an infection, especially in cases of acute gastroenteritis.

Although clinical presentation can provide strong initial clues (such as diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration), it is not definitive for rotavirus because many gastrointestinal pathogens can cause similar symptoms. Electron microscopy can be used for rotavirus identification, but it is less commonly employed due to its complexity, cost, and the need for specialized equipment. While epidemiological considerations can guide clinicians in making a diagnosis, they do not provide direct evidence of infection. Thus, testing for viral antigens in stool samples remains the most effective and widely used diagnostic approach for rotavirus.