The evaluation of a shigella infection begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a shigella infection may include:

• Fever
• Abdominal tenderness
• Increased bowel sounds
• Signs of dehydration

Signs of dehydration due to shigella infection include:

• Pale, dry skin
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Decreased urination
• Sunken eyes
• Sunken fontanelle in infants
• Rapid pulse
• Low blood pressure when standing
• Confusion
• Lethargy:
• A condition of excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.

Tests are required to make the diagnosis of shigella infection.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a shigella infection include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile
• Liver profile
• Electrolyte profile
• Stool cultures for shigella

A stool culture can detect:

• Cholera:
• Vibrio cholerae
• Shigella infection
• Campylobacter enteritis
• Cryptosporidium enterocolitis
• Giardiasis
• Pseudomembranous colitis:
• Clostridium difficile
• Salmonella gastroenteritis
• Traveler's diarrhea due to bacterial infection
• E. coli