Strongyloides stercoralis infection: an underlying cause of invasive bacterial infections of enteric origin. Results from a prospective cross-sectional study of a northern Italian tertiary hospital.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: We assessed the prevalence of S. stercoralis in a cohort of inpatients with invasive bacterial infections of enteric origin to investigate whether the parasite may facilitate these bacterial infections even in the absence of larval hyperproliferation. METHODS: We performed a prospective cross-sectional study in a hospital in northern Italy. Subjects admitted due to invasive bacterial infection of enteric origin and potential previous exposure to S. stercoralis were systematically enrolled over a period of 10 months. S. stercoralis infection was investigated with an in-house PCR on a single stool sample and with at least one serological method (in-house IFAT and/or ELISA Bordier). Univariate, bi-variate and logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: Strongyloidiasis was diagnosed in 14/57 patients (24.6%; 95% confidence interval 14.1-37.8%) of which 10 were Italians (10/49, 20.4%) and 4 were migrants (4/8, 50.0%). Stool PCR was performed in 43/57 patients (75.4%) and no positive results were obtained. Strongyloidiasis was found to be significantly associated (p ≤ 0.05) with male gender, long international travels to areas at higher endemicity, deep extra-intestinal infectious localization and solid tumors. In the logistic regression model, increased risk remained for the variables deep extra-intestinal infectious localization and oncologic malignancy. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest a new role of chronic strongyloidiasis in favoring invasive bacterial infections of enteric origin even in the absence of evident larval dissemination outside the intestinal lumen. Further well-designed studies should be conducted to confirm our results, and possibly establish the underlying mechanisms.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitosis in Guinea: Systematic Review of the Literature and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Intestinal parasitosis constitute a major public health issue, particularly in sub-tropical and tropical areas. Even though they are classified as neglected tropical diseases, no national study has been carried out recently in Guinea to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis. OBJECTIVE: A systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in Guinea. METHOD: The PRISMA method was used to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis. The studies carried out in order to study intestinal parasitosis in Guinea and published between 2010 and 2020 were searched in online public databases. The prevalence of parasitosis was calculated by a random-effects meta-analysis. Subgroup comparisons were performed using Q-tests. Statistical analyses were performed with the R software. This review was registered with PROSPERO under the identification number CRD42022349743. RESULTS: 69 studies were selected out of 1230 studies identified in online public databases. The meta-analysis involved 44,186 people with an overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections of 52%. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study in Guinea to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in different regions of the country. It was found that intestinal parasitosis are a real health problem in Guinea, hence, the need to put in place national strategies for regular control.

[Microscopy vs. molecular biology in the diagnosis of intestinal protozoal infections, is it time for a change?] / Microscopía vs. biología molecular en el diagnóstico de infecciones protozoarias intestinales, ¿es el momento del cambio?

OBJECTIVE: Microscopic examination of the intestinal parasites, from the patient's concentrated feces, has a lower sensitivity when compared to molecular diagnostic techniques. Therefore, the objective of this study has been to compare both techniques, as well as to evaluate whether there is a correlation between the microscopic examination and the threshold cycles (Ct) obtained for Blastocystis hominis. METHODS: Retrospective study of the samples received in the Microbiology laboratory during September 2021. The MiniParasep SF® concentration test was performed for microscopic visualization and then PCR was performed with the Seegene AllplexTM Parasite Assay panel. RESULTS: A 27% (n=74) of the samples were positive by molecular diagnosis, with a total of 87 parasites detected. 53% (n=39) were women with a mean age of 47 ± 24 years. In 76% (n=56) of the cases the service of origin was Primary Care. The most frequently found parasite was B. hominis, 85% (n=64), followed by Dientamoeba fragilis 20% (n=15) and Giardia lamblia 11% (n=8). Co-infection by two parasites was detected in 13 cases (B. hominis + D. fragilis in 6 cases, and B. hominis + G. lamblia in 7 cases). In the microscopic diagnosis, 9.5% (n=26) positivity was obtained. The most frequently found parasite was B. hominis, 84% (n=23), followed by G. lamblia, which was seen in three cases by microscopy. D. fragilis was not seen in any case. Coinfection of B. hominis + G. lamblia was observed in one sample. CONCLUSIONS: Techniques for molecular diagnosis of intestinal parasites are fast, reliable and more sensitive than microscopic techniques, improving microbiological diagnosis and quality of care.

Inusual hallazgo en paciente cirrótico con anemia crónica e hipereosinofilia usando cápsula endoscópica: a propósito de un caso (video) / Unusual finding in cirrhotic patient with chronic anemia and hypereosinophilia using an endoscopic capsule: a case report (video)

We report a clinical case from a patient with alcoholic cirrhosis who had chronic anemia and carried out several endoscopic studies without evidence of active bleeding, a complementary study with endoscopic capsule was requested to search for a source of bleeding. In the analysis of laboratory data, the presence of hypereosinophilia stands out in parallel. The images obtained in the video capsule study show geoparasites helminth-type. After parasite treatment, anemia improves and the absolute eosinophil count is normalized.

Reportamos el caso de un paciente cirrótico por alcohol con anemia crónica quien se realizó varios estudios endoscópicos sin evidencia de sangrado activo, por tal motivo se solicitó estudio complementario con cápsula endoscópica para búsqueda de fuente de sangrado. En el análisis de los datos de laboratorio paralelamente destaca la presencia de hipereosinofilia. Las imágenes obtenidas en el estudio de la video cápsula muestran varios geoparásitos de tipo helmintos. Posterior al tratamiento antiparasitario mejora la anemia y se normaliza el recuento absoluto de eosinófilos.

Intestinal parasitosis in children from a rural Caribbean area in Colombia / Parasitosis intestinal en niños de una zona rural del Caribe de Colombia

Abstract In Colombia, the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis varies throughout its regions, social classes, and living conditions. We performed a cohort study (2017-2018) on children from 1-10 years old in El Cedro, Ayapel, Colombia. We tested a convenience sampling of those who accepted and signed the consent form. The National Intestinal Parasite Survey was applied; feces and water source sampling were tested for coprological and microbiology analysis, respectively. Education and pharmacologic treatment to the minor and co-inhabitants were performed. After the recruiting, we followed up at 7 and 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM® SPSS22. Participants 47, 61,7% male, average age 5,7 years. The caretakers had a low educational background. The monthly income of 72,3% of households was < USD 87. The coprological test showed 61,7% with at least one type of parasite; 32,2% with two or more. Trichuris trichiura was the most frequent. Water sources were positive for Escherichia coli. The population tested showed a high frequency of parasitic infection. We did not find a reduction of intestinal parasitosis with educa tion and pharmacologic treatment at the end of the follow-up. It must be necessary to impact social determinants of public health to achieve intestinal parasitosis control.

Resumen En Colombia, la prevalencia de parasitosis intestinal varía por regiones, clases sociales, condiciones de vida. Realizamos estudio de cohorte (2017-2018) en niños de 1-10 años en El Cedro, Ayapel, Colombia. Muestra por conveniencia, se incluyeron aquellos que aceptaron y firmaron el consentimiento. Se aplicó la Encuesta Nacional de Parásitos Intestinales; se analizaron muestras de heces y fuentes de agua para análisis coprológico y microbiológico, respectivamente. Se realizó educación y tratamiento farmacológico al menor y cohabitantes. Después del reclutamiento, seguimiento a los 7 y 12 meses. El análisis estadístico se realizó con IBM® SPSS22. Participantes 47, 61,7% hombres, promedio de edad 5,7 años. Cuidadores con bajo nivel educativo, ingreso mensual del 72,3% de los hogares fue <USD 87. La población analizada mostró una alta frecuencia de infección parasitaria, un 61,7% con al menos un tipo de parásito; 32,2% con dos o más. Trichuris trichiura fue el más frecuente. Las fuentes de agua fueron positivas para Escherichia coli. Al final del seguimiento, no se redujo la frecuencia de la parasitosis intestinal a pesar de educación y tratamiento farmacológico. Se requiere incidir en los determinantes sociales y de salud pública para lograr el control de las parasitosis intestinales.

Parasitic Infections in Internationally Adopted Children: A Twelve-Year Retrospective Study.

Parasitic infections (PIs) are among the most frequent infectious diseases globally. Previous studies reported discrepant results regarding the prevalence of PIs in internationally adopted children (IAC). Data from IAC referred to our paediatric university hospital in 2009-2021 were collected to evaluate the frequency of PIs by the use of stool microscopic examination, antigen assays for Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum, and serological tests for Toxocara canis, Strongyloides stercoralis, Schistosoma mansoni, Echinococcus spp., Taenia solium, and Trypanosoma cruzi. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate risk factors for PIs and eosinophilia. The proportion of IAC with at least one positive test was 26.83% (640/2385); 2.13% (n = 51) had positive tests for 2 or 3 parasites. A positive assay for helminthic infection was retrieved in 11.07% of children (n = 264), and 17.86% (n = 426) presented with eosinophilia. The most common positive tests were anti-Toxocara canis antibodies (n = 312; 13.8%), followed by positive stool antigen for Giardia lamblia (n = 290; 12.16%), and positive microscopic stool examination for Blastocystis hominis (n = 76; 3.19%). A statistically significant association was found between PIs and region of origin (children from Latin America and Africa were more likely to present PIs than children from Eastern Europe), age 5-14 years, and eosinophilia. No significant association was observed between PIs and gender, vitamin D deficiency, or anemia. In conclusion, PIs are relevant in IAC and an accurate protocol is needed to evaluate IAC once they arrive in their adoptive country.

Prevalence of cestodes infection among school children of urban parts of Lower Dir district, Pakistan / Prevalência de infecção de cestóides entre crianças em idade escolar de partes urbanas do distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão

Tapeworms of zoonotic importance have been described as a leading public health problem. Current research was aim to assess the prevalence of tapeworms among 5-12years school children residing in district Lower Dir, Pakistan from January 2019-December 2019. The wet mount preparation in saline/iodine/methods were used for stool examination. Data was analyzed using appropriate descriptive, static methods. Of the 400 children studied 71.7% were infected with one or more species of intestinal parasites. Single infection of cestode species was found in 69 individuals with 17.2% prevalence and multiple parasitic infections were identified in 19.7% (n=79/400) individuals. The multiple infection were comprised as 10% (n=40) double, 6.75% (n=27) triple and 3% (n=12) quadruple. A total of 9 species of helminths and one species of protozoan infection. Among the helminths Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent 33.1% (n=95), Taenia saginata 22.6% (n=65), hookworm 19.8% (n=57), Hymenolepis nana 18.8% (n=54), Enterobius vermicularis and Hymenolepis diminuta 1.39% (n=4each), Trichuris trichura 1.04% (n=3), Toxocara spp 0.69% (n=2) and Schistosoma japonicum 0.34% (n=1) were reported. One protozoan species was Cryptosporidium spp 0.69% (n=2) in current study. In case of A.lumbricoides, hookworm, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana and H.diminuta the male children of below 8 years of age were highly infected. Other infections are reported in the same prevalence with slight difference if any. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programs because deworming alone is not adequate to control parasitic infections.

As tênias de importância zoonótica têm sido descritas como um dos principais problemas de saúde pública. A pesquisa atual teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de tênias entre crianças em idade escolar de 5 a 12 anos que residem no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão, de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2019. Os métodos de preparação para montagem úmida em solução salina/iodo foram usados para exame de fezes. Os dados foram analisados usando métodos descritivos e estáticos apropriados. Das 400 crianças estudadas, 71,7% estavam infectadas com uma ou mais espécies de parasitas intestinais. Infecção única de espécies de cestóides foi encontrada em 69 indivíduos com prevalência de 17,2% e infecções parasitárias múltiplas foram identificadas em 19,7% (n = 79/400) indivíduos. As infecções múltiplas foram compostas por 10% (n = 40) dupla, 6,75% (n = 27) tripla e 3% (n = 12) quádrupla. Um total de 9 espécies de helmintos e uma espécie de infecção por protozoários. Entre os helmintos, Ascaris lumbricoides foi o mais prevalente 33,1% (n = 95), Taenia saginata 22,6% (n = 65), ancilóstomo 19,8% (n = 57), Hymenolepis nana 18,8% (n = 54), Enterobius vermicularis e Hymenolepis diminuta 1,39% (n = 4cada), Trichuris trichura 1,04% (n = 3), Toxocara spp 0,69% (n = 2) e Schistosoma japonicum 0,34% (n = 1). Uma espécie de protozoário foi Cryptosporidium spp 0,69% (n = 2) no estudo atual. No caso de A.lumbricoides, ancilostomíase, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana e H.diminuta, as crianças do sexo masculino com menos de 8 anos de idade estavam altamente infectadas. Outras infecções são relatadas na mesma prevalência, com ligeira diferença, se houver. Concluímos que há uma necessidade de campanhas em massa para criar consciência sobre saúde e higiene em crianças e a necessidade de desenvolvimento de programas eficazes de controle da pobreza, porque a desparasitação por si só não é adequada para controlar infecções parasitárias.

Prevalence of cestodes infection among school children of urban parts of Lower Dir district, Pakistan / Prevalência de infecção de cestóides entre crianças em idade escolar de partes urbanas do distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão

Tapeworms of zoonotic importance have been described as a leading public health problem. Current research was aim to assess the prevalence of tapeworms among 5-12years school children residing in district Lower Dir, Pakistan from January 2019-December 2019. The wet mount preparation in saline/iodine/methods were used for stool examination. Data was analyzed using appropriate descriptive, static methods. Of the 400 children studied 71.7% were infected with one or more species of intestinal parasites. Single infection of cestode species was found in 69 individuals with 17.2% prevalence and multiple parasitic infections were identified in 19.7% (n=79/400) individuals. The multiple infection were comprised as 10% (n=40) double, 6.75% (n=27) triple and 3% (n=12) quadruple. A total of 9 species of helminths and one species of protozoan infection. Among the helminths Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent 33.1% (n=95), Taenia saginata 22.6% (n=65), hookworm 19.8% (n=57), Hymenolepis nana 18.8% (n=54), Enterobius vermicularis and Hymenolepis diminuta 1.39% (n=4each), Trichuris trichura 1.04% (n=3), Toxocara spp 0.69% (n=2) and Schistosoma japonicum 0.34% (n=1) were reported. One protozoan species was Cryptosporidium spp 0.69% (n=2) in current study. In case of A.lumbricoides, hookworm, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana and H.diminuta the male children of below 8 years of age were highly infected. Other infections are reported in the same prevalence with slight difference if any. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programs because deworming alone is not adequate to control parasitic infections.

As tênias de importância zoonótica têm sido descritas como um dos principais problemas de saúde pública. A pesquisa atual teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de tênias entre crianças em idade escolar de 5 a 12 anos que residem no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão, de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2019. Os métodos de preparação para montagem úmida em solução salina/iodo foram usados para exame de fezes. Os dados foram analisados usando métodos descritivos e estáticos apropriados. Das 400 crianças estudadas, 71,7% estavam infectadas com uma ou mais espécies de parasitas intestinais. Infecção única de espécies de cestóides foi encontrada em 69 indivíduos com prevalência de 17,2% e infecções parasitárias múltiplas foram identificadas em 19,7% (n = 79/400) indivíduos. As infecções múltiplas foram compostas por 10% (n = 40) dupla, 6,75% (n = 27) tripla e 3% (n = 12) quádrupla. Um total de 9 espécies de helmintos e uma espécie de infecção por protozoários. Entre os helmintos, Ascaris lumbricoides foi o mais prevalente 33,1% (n = 95), Taenia saginata 22,6% (n = 65), ancilóstomo 19,8% (n = 57), Hymenolepis nana 18,8% (n = 54), Enterobius vermicularis e Hymenolepis diminuta 1,39% (n = 4cada), Trichuris trichura 1,04% (n = 3), Toxocara spp 0,69% (n = 2) e Schistosoma japonicum 0,34% (n = 1). Uma espécie de protozoário foi Cryptosporidium spp 0,69% (n = 2) no estudo atual. No caso de A. lumbricoides, ancilostomíase, E. vermicularis, T. trichura, T. saginata, H. nana e H. diminuta, as crianças do sexo masculino com menos de 8 anos de idade estavam altamente infectadas. Outras infecções são relatadas na mesma prevalência, com ligeira diferença, se houver. Concluímos que há uma necessidade de campanhas em massa para criar consciência sobre saúde e higiene em crianças e a necessidade de desenvolvimento de programas eficazes de controle da pobreza, porque a desparasitação por si só não é adequada para controlar infecções parasitárias.

Prevalence of cestodes infection among school children of urban parts of Lower Dir district, Pakistan

Abstract Tapeworms of zoonotic importance have been described as a leading public health problem. Current research was aim to assess the prevalence of tapeworms among 5-12years school children residing in district Lower Dir, Pakistan from January 2019-December 2019. The wet mount preparation in saline/iodine/methods were used for stool examination. Data was analyzed using appropriate descriptive, static methods. Of the 400 children studied 71.7% were infected with one or more species of intestinal parasites. Single infection of cestode species was found in 69 individuals with 17.2% prevalence and multiple parasitic infections were identified in 19.7% (n=79/400) individuals. The multiple infection were comprised as 10% (n=40) double, 6.75% (n=27) triple and 3% (n=12) quadruple. A total of 9 species of helminths and one species of protozoan infection. Among the helminths Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent 33.1% (n=95), Taenia saginata 22.6% (n=65), hookworm 19.8% (n=57), Hymenolepis nana 18.8% (n=54), Enterobius vermicularis and Hymenolepis diminuta 1.39% (n=4each), Trichuris trichura 1.04% (n=3), Toxocara spp 0.69% (n=2) and Schistosoma japonicum 0.34% (n=1) were reported. One protozoan species was Cryptosporidium spp 0.69% (n=2) in current study. In case of A.lumbricoides, hookworm, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana and H.diminuta the male children of below 8 years of age were highly infected. Other infections are reported in the same prevalence with slight difference if any. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programs because deworming alone is not adequate to control parasitic infections.

Resumo As tênias de importância zoonótica têm sido descritas como um dos principais problemas de saúde pública. A pesquisa atual teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de tênias entre crianças em idade escolar de 5 a 12 anos que residem no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão, de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2019. Os métodos de preparação para montagem úmida em solução salina/iodo foram usados para exame de fezes. Os dados foram analisados usando métodos descritivos e estáticos apropriados. Das 400 crianças estudadas, 71,7% estavam infectadas com uma ou mais espécies de parasitas intestinais. Infecção única de espécies de cestóides foi encontrada em 69 indivíduos com prevalência de 17,2% e infecções parasitárias múltiplas foram identificadas em 19,7% (n = 79/400) indivíduos. As infecções múltiplas foram compostas por 10% (n = 40) dupla, 6,75% (n = 27) tripla e 3% (n = 12) quádrupla. Um total de 9 espécies de helmintos e uma espécie de infecção por protozoários. Entre os helmintos, Ascaris lumbricoides foi o mais prevalente 33,1% (n = 95), Taenia saginata 22,6% (n = 65), ancilóstomo 19,8% (n = 57), Hymenolepis nana 18,8% (n = 54), Enterobius vermicularis e Hymenolepis diminuta 1,39% (n = 4cada), Trichuris trichura 1,04% (n = 3), Toxocara spp 0,69% (n = 2) e Schistosoma japonicum 0,34% (n = 1). Uma espécie de protozoário foi Cryptosporidium spp 0,69% (n = 2) no estudo atual. No caso de A.lumbricoides, ancilostomíase, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana e H.diminuta, as crianças do sexo masculino com menos de 8 anos de idade estavam altamente infectadas. Outras infecções são relatadas na mesma prevalência, com ligeira diferença, se houver. Concluímos que há uma necessidade de campanhas em massa para criar consciência sobre saúde e higiene em crianças e a necessidade de desenvolvimento de programas eficazes de controle da pobreza, porque a desparasitação por si só não é adequada para controlar infecções parasitárias.

Prevalencia de parasitosis intestinal en escolares de zonas semirrurales de Ecuador II / Prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in schoolchildren from semi-rural areas of Ecuador II

La mayor proporción de individuos afectados por la parasitosis intestinal corresponde a la población infantil, debido a su inmadurez inmunológica y poco desarrollo de hábitos higiénicos y la práctica de jugar con tierra. Los estudios realizados en zonas rurales a nivel internacional sobre prevalencia de parasitosis intestinales en niños, reportan cifras que varían entre el 30 y 90 %. En los países afectados, entre los que figura notablemente Ecuador, las infecciones parasitarias intestinales están estrechamente relacionadas a los procesos de desarrollo económico y social. Ochenta y un escolares de zonas semirrurales (20%) cumplieron con los criterios diagnósticos de parasitosis intestinal. La Blastocystis sp. (10%), fue la especie parasitaria más comúnmente encontrada, en segundo lugar E. nana (3,7%) y en tercer lugar Complejo Entamoeba (2,5%). Específicamente en la población infantil de zonas semirrurales no se han realizado estudios de pesquisaje recientes en el contexto ecuatoriano y se ignora qué consecuencias pudo tener la pandemia de COVID-19 para la prevalencia de estas infecciones. Se desarrolló una investigación sobre los antecedentes y prevalencia de parasitosis intestinal en escolares de zonas semirrurales de Ecuador a fin de aportar información empírica al respecto(AU)

The largest proportion of individuals affected by intestinal parasitosis corresponds to the child population, due to their immunological immaturity and little development of hygienic habits and the practice of playing with dirt. - Studies carried out in rural areas at the international level on the prevalence of intestinal parasites in children, report figures that vary between 30% and 90%. In the affected countries, including notably Ecuador, intestinal parasitic infections are closely related to the processes of economic and social development. Eighty-one schoolchildren from semi-rural areas (20%) met the diagnostic criteria for intestinal parasitosis. The Blastocystis sp. (10%), was the most commonly found parasitic species, in second place E. nana (3.7%) and in third place Entamoeba Complex (2.5%). Specifically, in the child population of semi-rural areas, no recent screening studies have been carried out in the Ecuadorian context and the consequences the COVID-19 pandemic could have had on the prevalence of these infections are unknown. An investigation was developed on the background and prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in schoolchildren from semi-rural areas of Ecuador in order to provide empirical information in this regard(AU)

Intestinal Parasitosis and its Association with CD4+ T Cell Count and Viral Load among People Living with HIV in Parasite Endemic Settings of Northwest Ethiopia.

PURPOSE: To study intestinal parasitosis and its association with viral load and CD4+ T cell count in HIV-infected individuals at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2019. Three hundred and sixteen study participants were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using structured questionnaire. Stool samples were collected and examined using direct saline, formol ether concentration technique and modified acid fast staining. CD4+ T cell counts and viral load were determined by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (BD FACS) and COBAS Ampliprep/COBAS TaqMan HI2CAP assay, respectively. Data were entered into Epi Data 3.1 and transferred to SPSS version 20 software for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were performed using a binary logistic regression model. P values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 24.7% (78/316). The most commonly detected parasite was Cryptosporidium species with 5.4% (17/316), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides with 5.1% (16/316). There was a significant association with low CD4+ T cell count (AOR: 3.207; 95% CI: 1.237, 8.317), high viral load (AOR: 2.933; 95% CI: 1.326, 6.489), individuals aged 31-40 years (AOR: 0.305; 95% CI: 0.124, 0.751) and individuals aged 41-50 years (AOR: 0.261; 95% CI: 0.101, 0.671). CONCLUSION: In this study, prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was high and was associated with low CD4+ T cell count and high viral load. Therefore, screening of HIV patients, especially those with low CD4+ T-cell count and high viral load, particularly for opportunistic intestinal parasitic infections would be of utmost importance in the efforts to prevent and control opportunistic infections in HIV patients.

Blastocystis species and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Peruvian Adults Attended in a Public Hospital.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of Blastocystis sp. in gastrointestinal symptoms reported by adult patients in a Peruvian hospital. A case-control 3:1 study was performed at the outpatient clinic. Direct stool examinations were done. One hundred sixty patients were included, 40 cases and 120 controls. Positivity to Blastocystis sp. was associated with dyspepsia (P <0.001), bloating (P <0.001) and abdominal pain (P = 0.03) in patients attending our hospital outpatient clinic.

Prevalence, risk factors and impact of cellular immunity on intestinal parasitosis among people living with HIV at Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria.

This study was sought to determine the impact of CD4+ T-cell count and associated risk factors with intestinal parasitosis in people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Central Hospital, Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. One hundred and seventy (170) HIV-seropositive subjects were enrolled in the study from 24 August 2015 to 22 January 2016. Sociodemographic data were assessed using structured questionnaires. Blood and stool samples were collected from every participant. CD4+ T-cell count and stool parasitology were performed. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 44.7%. Helminthiasis (67%) was a predominant infection in the study, while 32.9% had protozoasis. Specifically, Ancylostoma duodenale (33.3%) was the most common helminth, and Trichuristrichiura (7.8%), the least. However, Strongyloides stercoralis, Ascarislumbricoides and Hymenolepis nana were 13.7%, 31.5% and 13.7%, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. (25.0%) was the only protozoan. Lower CD4+ T-cell count, ART naivety (OR = 2.62 p < 0.05), residence in a rural setting (OR = 0.89, p < 0.05), and farming occupation (OR = 1.70, p < 0.05) were associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis among PLHIV. This study revealed a significantly high prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in ART naive PLHIV with reduced CD4+ count. Hence, it is recommended to frequently test for intestinal parasitosis and commencement of ART in all PLHIV to improve their health and longevity.

Intestinal Parasitoses among Chepang and Musahar Community People of Makwanpur and Nawalparasi Districts of Nepal.

BACKGROUND: Intestinal parasitosis is one of the commonly perceived serious problems often observed in children leading to high mortality. The objective of the study was to identify the intestinal parasites and study their prevalence in the two mostly disadvantaged communities (Musahar and Chepang) of Nepal. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Musahar and Chepang communities of Nepal from April to October 2019. A total of 205 random stool samples were collected in dry, clean and screw-capped plastic containers and mixed with 2.5% potassium dichromate solution. A pre-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on predisposing factors. The laboratory examination of the stool samples was done by direct microscopy and further confirmed by concentration methods (formalin ether sedimentation technique and flotation technique using Sheather's sugar solution), and modified acid-fast staining. Detection of eggs of Enterobius vermicularis was done by cellophane tape method. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was found to be 36.6%, with a similar prevalence in the Chepangs (39.8%) and in the Musahars (33.3%) (P > 0.05). The most predominant helminth was Ascaris lumbricoides (15.6%), while the most prevalent protozoan was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (5.4%). The study also assessed a significant association between the prevalence of parasites with socio-demographic factors, types of drinking water consumption and sanitation habits of the people (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The findings of the study suggest a need for formulating effective preventive and control strategies against intestinal parasitic infections along with the continuity of mass deworming program.

Prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en niños preescolares del municipio Angostura del Orinoco, estado Bolívar, Venezuela. 2016-2018 / Prevalence of intestinal parasites in preschool children from the Angostura del Orinoco municipality, Bolívar state, Venezuela. 2016-2018

El objetivo de la presente investigación fue determinar la prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en niños preescolares usuarios de 12 Centros de Educación Inicial Simoncito (CEIS) del municipio Angostura del Orinoco, estado Bolívar, Venezuela. Se estudiaron las heces de 515 niños de ambos géneros (2 a 5 años), mediante la técnica de sedimentación espontánea. La prevalencia de enteroparásitos fue de 39,4% (n=203). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas (χ2 = 1,59 g.l.: 2 p> 0,05) respecto a la edad, pero si según el género (p<0,05), resultando los niños varones más afectados con 46,9%. Se identificaron 11 taxones de enteroparásitos, destacando el cromista Blastocystis spp. con 27,4% (n=141) y el protozoario Giardia intestinalis con 13,2% (n=68). Se encontró una baja prevalencia de helmintos, donde Ascaris lumbricoides fue el más común con 1,6% (n=8). De los 203 niños parasitados, el 70,9% (n=144) estaba monoparasitado y 29,1% (n=59) poliparasitado. Los principales parásitos asociados fueron Blastocystis spp. (89,8%), G. intestinalis (44,1%) y Endolimax nana (35,3%). En conclusión, se determinó una elevada prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en la población estudiada, por lo que estas infecciones continúan siendo un problema de salud pública en niños de Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela

The objective of the present investigation was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in preschool children users of 12 Simoncito Initial Education Centers (CEIS) of the Angostura del Orinoco municipality, Bolívar state, Venezuela. The feces of 515 children of both genders (2 to 5 years old) were studied using the spontaneous sedimentation technique. The prevalence of enteroparasites was 39.4% (n = 203). There were no statistically significant differences (χ2 = 1.59 d.f .: 2 p> 0.05) with respect to age but if according to gender (p <0.05), because the most affected were male child with 46.9%. Eleven taxa of enteroparasites were identified, highlighting the chromist Blastocystis spp. (27.4%) and the protozoan Giardia intestinalis (13.2%). A low prevalence of helminths was found, where Ascaris lumbricoides was the most common with 1.6%. Of the 203 parasitized children, 70.9% (n = 144) were monoparasitized and 29.1% (n = 59) polyparasitized. The main associated parasites were Blastocystis spp. (89.8%), G. intestinalis (44.1%) and Endolimax nana (35.3%). In conclusion, a high prevalence of intestinal parasites was determined in the population studied, so these infections continue to be a public health problem in children from Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela

Ascariasis intestinal. Tres casos pediátricos con complicaciones severas en Cauca, Colombia / Intestinal ascariasis. Three pediatric cases with severe complications in Cauca, Colombia

Se presentan tres casos clínicos de niños atendidos en el Hospital Universitario San José de Popayán en Cauca, Colombia, quienes consultaron por una infección severa causada por Ascaris lumbricoides. La severidad de la infección tuvo como consecuencia en el primer caso una colangitis aguda, en el segundo caso una obstrucción intestinal con peritonitis generalizada, y en el tercer caso una perforación intestinal y choque séptico. El objetivo de mostrar estos casos es dar a conocer estas presentaciones clínicas poco frecuentes en el entorno médico. Además, se resalta la importancia del conocimiento sobre esta especie de parásito, que termina siendo un problema más de salud pública, no solo en nuestro país, sino en gran parte del mundo

We report three clinical cases of children treated at the San José University Hospital in Cauca, Colombia, who consulted with a severe infection caused by Ascaris lumbricoides. The severity of the infection resulted in acute cholangitis in the first case, in intestinal obstruction with generalized peritonitis in the second case, and in intestinal perforation and septic shock in the third case. The objective of this report is to inform the medical community about these unusual clinical presentations. In addition, the importance of this parasite is highlighted as a public health concern, not only in our country but also globally

Uncinariasis: una causa poco común de hemorragia digestiva y anemia severa / Ancylostomiasis: a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding and severe anemia

Resumen La anemia se caracteriza por niveles bajos de hemoglobina. En Colombia, la anemia afecta al 27,7 % de la población. Las poblaciones más afectadas son los niños en edad preescolar, mujeres en edad reproductiva, embarazadas y personas de edad avanzada. Caso clínico: paciente de 58 años con cuadro clínico compatible con cor anémico, que requirió transfusión sanguínea. Mediante estudios de extensión se consideró una hemorragia digestiva por uncinariasis, por lo cual se dio un manejo antihelmíntico, con lo que tuvo buena evolución clínica y paraclínica. Discusión: hay múltiples factores de riesgo asociados con la adquisición de este parásito; se considera que esta entidad es una causa olvidada de hemorragia de vías digestivas y en algunos casos conlleva consecuencias graves como el cor anémico. El tratamiento se realiza mediante antihelmínticos, que tienen una efectividad entre el 62 % y el 92 %.

Abstract Anemia is characterized by low levels of hemoglobin. In Colombia, anemia affects 27.7% of the population. The most seriously affected populations are preschool children, women of reproductive age, pregnant women and the elderly. Clinical case: Upon admission, the 58-year-old patient was found to have a condition compatible with cardiomegaly and redistribution of blood flow and required a blood transfusion. Additional studies suggested that digestive hemorrhaging due to ancylostomiasis could be the cause. Treatment with anthelmintics was begun and had good clinical and paraclinical results. Discussion: Acquisition of this parasite, considered to be a forgotten cause of digestive bleeding, is associated with multiple risk factors. In some cases, there are severe consequences such as cardiomegaly and redistribution of blood flow. The effectiveness of treatment with anthelmintics ranges between 62% and 92%.

Detection of enteric agents into a cats' shelter with cases of chronic diarrhea in Southern Brazil / Detecção de agentes enteropatogênicos associados à diarreia crônica em um gatil no Sul do Brasil

This study carried out a survey about enteropathogenic agents in domestic cats' shelter as a stage of investigation for the intermittent chronic diarrhea. Individual fecal samples from 39 cats with free access to the external environment were submitted to parasitological examination, parvovirus, and coronavirus by PCR, and Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia spp. and Tritrichomonas foetus by real-time PCR. From the cats evaluated, 30 (76.9%) were positive for one or more enteric agents, and coinfections were observed in 11 cats samples (28.2%). Helminth eggs were observed in 48.7% of cats (19/30), 16 (41%) were positive for parvovirus or coronavirus and 25.6% (10/30) were infected by protozoa. From the positives for protozoa, five cats were positive to T. foetus (12.82%). The first finding of this protozoan through PCR was in the southern Brazil, and the second was in the whole country. Chronic diarrhea in cats may be multifactorial in shelter animals where the population density is high and the control of parasitic, and viral infections are deficient. Moreover, it is due to poor hygiene conditions in these shelters. The factors associated with the proliferation of infectious diseases in shelters are correlated with new pathogens infections such as T. foetus.(AU)

Uma pesquisa de agentes enteropatogênicos em gatos domésticos de um abrigo foi realizado como etapa da investigação das causas de diarreias crônicas intermitentes. Amostras fecais individuais de 39 gatos, com livre acesso ao ambiente externo, foram obtidas para pesquisa de helmintos através do exame parasitológico, investigação de parvovírus e coronavírus e de Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia spp. e Tritrichomonas foetus através de PCR em tempo real. Dos gatos avaliados, 30 (76,9%) foram positivos para algum ou mais de um destes agentes entéricos. Desses, 11 (28,2%) apresentaram co-infecções parasitárias. Ovos de helmintos foram observados em 48,7% dos gatos (19/30), 16 felinos (41%) foram positivos para parvovírus ou coronavírus e 25,6% (10/30) estavam infectados por protozoários. Dos positivos para protozoários, cinco apresentaram Tritrichomonas foetus (12,82%), um organismo pouco relatado no Brasil, sendo este o primeiro relato de detecção deste protozoário através de PCR em fezes de gatos no Sul do Brasil e o segundo no país. A diarreia crônica em gatos pode ser multifatorial em animais de abrigo onde a densidade populacional é elevada e os meios de controle parasitário e viral são deficitários, além das condições de higiene precárias. Os fatores associados à proliferação de doenças infecciosas em abrigos promovem o surgimento de infecções por novos patógenos como o Tritrichomonas foetus, até então pouco relatado no Brasil.(AU)

Saneamiento ambiental y su relación con la prevalencia de parásitos intestinales / Environmental sanitation and its relationship with the prevalence of intestinal parasites

Las parasitosis intestinales son consideradas un importante problema de salud pública. El propósito de la investigación fue relacionar el saneamiento ambiental con la prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en tres comunidades urbanas del municipio Maracaibo. Tipo de investigación descriptivo, correlacional, de diseño transversal. La identificación de los factores de riesgo del saneamiento ambiental se hizo mediante una ficha epidemiológica, participando un total de 345 individuos, incluyendo como variables para indagar el saneamiento: el almacenamiento de agua, acumulación de basura, presencia de fauna nociva y hacinamiento en la vivienda. Para la identificación de parásitos intestinales se efectuó un examen coproparasitológico directo con solución salina fisiológica y lugol. Se realizaron análisis estadísticos aplicando distribuciones de frecuencia, tablas de contingencias y asociación de variables mediante la prueba Chi cuadrado, aplicando el SPSS V.20. En cuanto a los principales factores de riesgo del saneamiento ambiental se encontró: almacenamiento de agua (98%), acumulación de basura (94%) y presencia de fauna nociva (92%). La prevalencia de parasitosis fue del46%, principalmente por Blastocystis sp (72%), resultando el 65% monoparasitado. El 48% presentó inadecuado saneamiento ambiental, 39% de la muestra presentó parasitosis cuando existe un deficiente saneamiento ambiental. En conclusión, se encontró que la prevalencia de las parasitosis fue alta, así como las de sus factores de riesgo asociadas, por lo que se demostró asociación entre el inadecuado saneamiento ambiental y la presencia de parasitosis.

Intestinal parasites are considered an important public health problem. The purpose of the research was to relate environmental sanitation to the prevalence of intestinal parasites in three urban communities of the Maracaibo municipality. Type of descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional research. The identification of risk factors for environmental sanitation was made through an epidemiological sheet, involving a total of 345 individuals, including as variables to investigate the sanitation: water storage, accumulation of garbage, presence of harmful fauna and overcrowding in housing. For the identification of intestinal parasites, a direct coproparasitological examination was performed with physiological saline solution and lugol. Statistical analyzes were performed applying frequency distributions, contingency tables and association of variables using the Chi square test, applying the SPSS V.20. Regarding the main risk factors of environmental sanitation, it was found: water storage (98%), garbage accumulation (94%) and presence of harmful fauna (92%). The prevalence of parasitosis was 46%, mainly by Blastocystis sp (72%), resulting in 65% monoparasitic. 48% presented inadequate environmental sanitation, 39% of the sample presented parasitosis when there is poor environmental sanitation. In conclusion, it was found that the prevalence of parasitic infections was high, as well as the associated risk factors, which led to an association between inadequate environmental sanitation and the presence of parasitosis in the studied communities.

Parasitosis intestinal en adolescentes de 10 a 19 años, que habitan el área de influencia de la USF Santa María. Asunción, Paraguay

RESUMEN Introducción: La parasitosis intestinal (PI) constituye un problema endémico de salud pública regional, y nuestro país no está exento de ello. El Objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la prevalencia de PI en adolescentes de 10 a 19 años, bajo vigilancia de la USF Santa María, Asunción, Paraguay, de agosto a noviembre de 2013; la Metodología consistió en la realización de un estudio descriptivo y transversal en 46 jóvenes, con encuestas en las cuales fueron evaluadas las condiciones socio-sanitarias y educativas de la población, y análisis laboratoriales de muestras sanguíneas y fecales. En las muestras sanguíneas se evaluó la concentración de hemoglobina (g/dl), y en las fecales (seriadas de 3 días) la búsqueda de parásitos intestinales. Para el análisis de los datos obtenidos fue utilizado el programa epi info. Resultados: Se encontró que el 43 % de los sujetos estaban parasitados, con una prevalencia de 56,3% en el sexo masculino y 36,7% en el sexo femenino. No se ha podido establecer asociación entre la PI y las variables sexo y edad. Evaluando los distintos factores de riesgo, como la eliminación de basuras y excretas, y consumo de agua potable tampoco se ha podido establecer asociación con la PI (p>0,05). Las muestras fecales analizadas contenían en un 60 % un solo tipo de parasito y el 40 % estaba poliparasitado (2 especies). La especie predominante fue Blastocystis hominis (40%), seguida de Giardia lamblia (15%) y Endolimax nana (5%). La poliparasitosis estuvo dada por Blastocystis hominis con Entamoeba coli (15%), seguida de Blastocystis hominis con Giardia lamblia(10%), Blastocystis hominis con Entamoeba hystolitica/dispar (5%), Blastocystis hominis con Endolinax nana(5%) y Ascaris lumbricoides con Entamoeba hystolitica/dispar (5%). Tampoco se ha podido establecer asociación de la PI con el estado nutricional evaluado con los parámetros de Índice de Masa Corporal (peso y altura), y concentración de hemoglobina en sangre (p>0,05) Conclusión: La alta prevalencia de PI hallada como resultado en este estudio, coincidente con otros realizados en años anteriores en nuestro país, deja evidenciada que esta problemática en la salud pública sigue siendo postergada.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Intestinal parasitosis (PI) is an endemic regional public health problem, and our country is not exempt from it. The objective of this research was to determine the prevalence of PI in adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, under surveillance of the USF Santa María, Asunción, Paraguay, from August to November 2013; The Methodology consisted of a descriptive and transversal study in 46 young people, with surveys in which the socio-sanitary and educational conditions of the population were evaluated, and laboratorial analyzes of blood and faecal samples. In the blood samples the hemoglobin concentration (g / dl) was evaluated, and in the fecal samples (3-day serials) the search for intestinal parasites was evaluated. For the analysis of the data obtained, the epi info program was used. Results: It was found that 43% of the subjects were parasitized, with a prevalence of 56.3% in the male sex and 36.7% in the female sex. It has not been possible to establish an association between IP and the variables sex and age. Assessing the different risk factors, such as the elimination of garbage and excreta, and drinking water consumption, it has not been possible to establish an association with IP (p> 0.05). The fecal samples analyzed contained 60% of a single type of parasite and 40% were polyparasitized (2 species). The predominant species was Blastocystis hominis (40%), followed by Giardia lamblia (15%) and Endolimax nana (5%). Polyparasitosis was given by Blastocystis hominis with Entamoeba coli (15%), followed by Blastocystis hominis with Giardia lamblia (10%), Blastocystis hominis with Entamoeba hystolitica / dispar (5%), Blastocystis hominis with Endolinax nana (5%) and Ascaris lumbricoides with Entamoeba hystolitica / dispar (5%). It has not been possible to establish an association of the IP with the nutritional status evaluated with the parameters of Body Mass Index (weight and height), and blood hemoglobin concentration (p> 0.05). Conclusion: The high prevalence of PI found as a result in this study, coinciding with other studies conducted in previous years in our country, shows that this problem in public health is still postponed.