pathophysiology of acute gastroenteritis, it is often determined that infectious agents are often the cause. These agents cause mucosal invasion, cytotoxin production, enterotoxin production, and/or diarrhea by adherence. These mechanisms lead to decreased absorption and/or increased fluid secretion. This leads to the production of increased luminal fluid content that is not able to be reabsorbed adequately. This then results in the loss of electrolytes, dehydration, and the loss of nutrients.