A bacterium called Vibrio cholerae causes cholera infection. The deadly effects of the disease are the result of a toxin the bacteria produces in the small intestine. The toxin causes the body to secrete enormous amounts of water, leading to diarrhea and a rapid loss of fluids and salts (electrolytes).

Does cholera cause secretory diarrhea?

Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae (see the images below). The hallmark of the disease is profuse secretory diarrhea. Cholera can be endemic, epidemic, or pandemic.

What is the mechanism of action of cholera toxin?

Cholera diarrhoea is due to the action of a toxin that acts on all animal cells by stimulating the enzyme adenylate cyclase, which catalyses the production oc cyclic AMP from ATP.