Accidente causado por Tityus falconensis González-Sponga, 1974 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) en La Peña, Sierra de San Luis, estado Falcón, Venezuela / Accident produced by Tityus falconensis González-Sponga, 1974 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) in La Peña, Sierra de San Luis, Falcon state, Venezuela

Resumen Se describe un accidente causado por Tityus falconensis González-Sponga, 1974 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) en un indi viduo masculino de 48 años de edad. El evento catalogado clínicamente como un envenenamiento sin compromiso sistémico, con solo síntomas y signos locales (edema e hiperemia en halux y parestesia del área plantar del pie derecho); ocurrió en el ambiente antrópico (área de dormitorio) en la localidad rural de La Peña, Sierra de San Luis, estado Falcón, región nor-occidental de Venezuela.

Abstract We report an accident produced by Tityus falconensis González-Sponga, 1974 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) in a 48 years old male patient. The accident was considered clinically as an envenomation with no systemic compliance, with just local signs and symptoms (oedema and hyperemia in the halux and paresthesia of the plantar part of the right foot). The accident took place within the human environment (in dormitory) in the rural community of La Peña, Sierra de San Luis, Falcon state, North-Western region from Venezuela.

[Morphological abnormalities in the cibarium of Lutzomyia evansi (Diptera: Psychodidae, Phlebotominae) caught in Trujillo, Venezuela]. / Anomalías morfológicas en los dientes del cibario de Lutzomyia evansi (Diptera: Psychodidae) en el estado Trujillo, Venezuela.

INTRODUCTION: Lutzomyia evansi is a recognized vector of Leishmania infantum in Colombia and Venezuela. OBJECTIVE: To describe and illustrate the morphological abnormalities in Lu. evansi females captured in a rural focus of visceral leishmaniasis in Trujillo, Venezuela. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Phlebotomine sand flies were collected using CDC light traps, Shannon traps and aspiration in resting places. The identification was performed according to Young & Duncan (1994) and drawings were made using a microscope with camara lucida . RESULTS: Abnormalities in the cibarium of Lu. evansi were detected in 4 (0.12%) females of the 3,477 adults that were studied. CONCLUSION: Lutzomyia evansi can have uncommon morphological variants associated with an increase in the number of teeth in the cibarium and their arrangement, which may lead to errors in the taxonomic identification of anomalous specimens. The study of such deformities can serve to avoid taxonomic identification errors.

Effect of environmental disturbance on the population of sandflies and leishmania transmission in an endemic area of Venezuela.

The exploitation of new wilderness areas with crops is increasing and traditional crop substitution has been modified by new more productive crops. The results show the anthropogenic disturbance effect on the sandflies population and Leishmania transmission in endemic areas of Venezuela. Three agroecosystems with variable degrees of ecological disturbance, forest (conserved), cacao (fragmented), and orangery (disturbed), were selected. Four methods to sandfly capture were used; the specimens were identified and infected with Leishmania. Diversity, population structure, ANOVA, Tukey test, and simple correlation analysis were carried out. Shannon traps were able to capture 94.7% of the total sandflies, while CDC light traps, Sticky traps, and direct suction just captured 2.2%, 1.2%, and 0.9%, respectively. The results showed the effect of ecological disturbance degree on the composition of sandflies and population structure, revealing a dominance level increased but decreased on the diversity and richness of sandflies species in the greatest ecological disturbance area in relation to areas with less organic disturbance. Environments more disturbed cause adaptability of certain species such as Lutzomyia gomezi and Lutzomyia walkeri. These changes on the composition of sandflies population and structure emerging species could cause increasing of leishmaniasis transmission.

Patrones de coocurrencia y conducta alimentaria a escala local de Phlebotominae (Diptera: Psychodidae) del estado Falcón, Venezuela

Los flebotominos son transmisores de los protozoarios parásitos del genero Leishmania, agentes causales de las leishmaniasis en humanos y otros mamíferos. Mediante modelos nulos, se estudio la estructura de las comunidades flebotominas en focos endémicos de leishmaniasis del estado Falcón, en el nor-occidente de Venezuela, a una escala reducida o local: en el domicilio, peridomicilio y el área silvestre de una zona de vida o en una localidad en particular. La aplicación de los modelos nulos reveló que a escala local las comunidades flebotominas se encuentran agregadas, sugiriendo que las especies coexisten y no compiten. Los estudios de co-ocurrencia con el análisis de estructura gremial y la prueba de la hipótesis de los estados favorecido mostró que los resultados obtenidos no son estadísticamente significativos (p> 0.05), lo que sugiere que las especies flebotominas pertenecen a un mismo gremio en sus preferencias alimentarias, lo que podría deberse a que la hematofagia se trata de un evento heterogéneo, circunstancial y oportunista. Se discuten aspectos sobre los posibles factores, como por ejemplo la transformación y homogenización de los hábitats por el impacto sinantrópico, que pudieran estar determinando el ensamble de los flebotominos en la región falconiana.

The phlebotomine sandfly are vectors of protozoan parasites Leishmania genus, the causative agents of leishmaniasis in humans and several mammalian hosts. The structure of the phlebotomine sandfly community at the local scale: domicile, peridomicile and sylvatic habitats from a reduced area, was assessed using null models analysis in endemic foci of leishmaniasis from Falcon state, in north-western region of Venezuela. Implementation of null model tests revealed that to a local scale the phlebotomine sandfly communities are aggregated, suggesting that the species co-occurred and did not compete. The assays of co-ocurrence patterns with guild structure analysis and favored states hypothesis showed statistically non-significant results (p> 0.05), suggesting that sandfly species belong to a same guild in relation to their feeding preferences, as hematophagy appears to be an heterogeneous, circumstantial and opportunist event. We discussed aspects of the possible factors, for example sinantropic effects on environmental transformation and its homogenization, that could be determining the phlebotomine sanfly assemblage in the Falcon state region.

[Clinical and epidemiological study of intestinal coccidioses in a rural population of a semiarid region from Falcon state, Venezuela]. / Estudio clcnico-epidemiológico de coccidiosis intestinales en una población rural de región semiárida del estado Falcón, Venezuela.

Although intestinal coccidioses caused by Cryptosporidium sp., Cystoisospora belli and Cyclospora cayetanensis are parasitic diseases of major clinical importance in Public Health, several clinical and epidemiological aspects of these diseases still remain unknown in Falcon state, Venezuela. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and October 2011, to investigate clinical and epidemiological data in 157 people (X +/- S.D. = 21.28 +/- 17 years-old) from Sabaneta, Falcón state, Venezuela. Symptoms associated with intestinal coccidioses were determined by means of anamnesis and clinical examination. Direct smear and Kinyoun staining were used to perform the parasitological diagnosis. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 61.78% (97/157) and Blastocystis sp. was the most prevalent intestinal parasite (56.68%). Coccidioses prevalence was 26.11% (41/157) and among these, cyclosporiasis was the most prevalent with 24.2%. There were no statistically significant differences in the prevalence between sexes or ages (X2 = 0.20; p = 0.70 and X2 = 10.06; p = 0.44, respectively). Diarrhea and epigastralgia were the most common clinical findings, and the only ones significantly associated with intestinal coccidioses (p < 0.05). In the light of these results, it can be concluded that hand washing (OR = 1.93), bathing (OR = 2.78), keeping domestic animals (OR = 10.1) and their feeding with waste (OR = 6.58), are potential risk factors that appeared to be significantly related to the transmission and endemic maintenance of intestinal coccidioses.

Estudio clínico-epidemiológico de enterobiasis en niños de una comunidad rural del estado Falcón - Venezuela / Clinical and epidemiological study of enterobiasis in children of a rural community from Falcon state, Venezuela

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar las características clínicas-epidemiológicas de la enterobiasis en niños de una comunidad rural (Arenales) del estado Falcón, Venezuela. Entre marzo-julio de 2011, se evaluaron 113 muestras por la técnica de Graham. Se determinó una prevalencia global de 23% (26/113). El prurito anal (P=0,01) y secreción vaginal (P=0,03) fueron los síntomas significativamente asociados con enterobiasis. Los factores de riesgo asociados con esta patología, tal como lo sugieren sus elevados Odds Ratios (OR), fueron: prurito anal (OR= 3,43) y hacinamiento (OR=3,97). Concluimos que los factores potenciales que hacen posible el mantenimiento endémico de la enterobiasis en niños de Arenales están relacionados directamente con las condiciones socioeconómicas de pobreza y la carencia o deficiente aplicación de medidas higiénicas sanitarias.

The objective of this investigation was to determine the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of enterobiasis in children of a rural community (Arenales) in the State of Falcón, Venezuela. Between the months of March and July of 2011, 113 samples were tested using the Graham method. A global prevalence of 23% was determined (26/113). Pruritus ani (P= 0.01) and vaginal discharge (P= 0.03) were the significant Enterobiasis associated symptoms. The risk factors associated to the pathology, as suggested by their increased Odds Ratios (OR), were: pruritus ani (OR= 3.43), and overcrowding (OR = 3.97). In conclusion, the potential factors which make enterobiasis endemic in children of the community of Arenales are directly related to the socioeconomical conditions of poverty and the lack of hygienic habits.

Estudio clínico-epidemiológico de coccidiosis intestinales en una población rural de región semiárida del estado Falcón, Venezuela / Clinical and epidemiological study of intestinal coccidioses in a rural population of a semiarid region from Falcon state, Venezuela

A pesar de que las coccidiosis intestinales ocasionadas por Cryptosporidium, Cystoisospora belli y Cyclospora cayetanensis constituyen patologías parasitarias de alta relevancia en la Salud Pública, en el estado Falcón, Venezuela, se desconocen muchos aspectos de sus características clínicas y epidemiológicas. Durante junio-octubre de 2011, se realizó un estudio para determinar los aspectos clínicos y epidemiológicos en 157 habitantes (X ± D.S= 21,28 ± 17 años), de Sabaneta, estado Falcón, Venezuela. Se hizo evaluación clínica y anamnesis para la búsqueda de signos y síntomas que usualmente se encuentran asociados a las coccidiosis intestinales. La detección de la infección parasitaria se realizó por análisis microscópico al fresco y ooquistes en extendidos teñidos con Kinyoun. El análisis de los resultados reveló una prevalencia global de parasitosis intestinales de 61,78% (97/157), siendo Blastocystis sp. el taxón más frecuentemente observado (56,68%). La prevalencia de coccidiosis intestinal fue de 26,11% (41/157), siendo la ciclosporiosis la más prevalente con 24,2%, no detectándose diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre sexos ni edades (X2= 0,20; p=0,70 y x2=10,06; p= 0,44, respectivamente). La diarrea y la epigastralgia fueron las manifestaciones características más frecuentemente observadas, y las únicas significativamente asociadas con las coccidiosis (p < 0,05). A la luz de los resultados obtenidos, se concluye que el lavado de manos (OR= 1.93), la tenencia de animales domésticos (OR= 10.1), su alimentación con desperdicios (OR= 6.58), y su aseo (OR= 2.78), son potenciales factores de riesgo que aparecen de forma significativa en la dinámica de transmisión y mantenimiento endémico de las coccidiosis intestinales.

Although intestinal coccidioses caused by Cryptosporidium sp., Cystoisospora belli and Cyclospora cayetanensis are parasitic diseases of major clinical importance in Public Health, several clinical and epidemiological aspects of these diseases still remain unknown in Falcon state, Venezuela. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and October 2011, to investigate clinical and epidemiological data in 157 people (X ± S.D. = 21.28 ± 17 years-old) from Sabaneta, Falcón state, Venezuela. Symptoms associated with intestinal coccidioses were determined by means of anamnesis and clinical examination. Direct smear and Kinyoun staining were used to perform the parasitological diagnosis. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 61.78% (97/157) and Blastocystis sp. was the most prevalent intestinal parasite (56.68%). Coccidioses prevalence was 26.11% (41/157) and among these, cyclosporiasis was the most prevalent with 24.2%. There were no statistically significant differences in the prevalence between sexes or ages (X2= 0.20; p=0.70 and x2=10.06; p= 0.44, respectively). Diarrhea and epigastralgia were the most common clinical findings, and the only ones significantly associated with intestinal coccidioses (p< 0.05). In the light of these results, it can be concluded that hand washing (OR= 1.93), bathing (OR= 2.78), keeping domestic animals (OR= 10.1) and their feeding with waste (OR= 6.58), are potential risk factors that appeared to be significantly related to the transmission and endemic maintenance of intestinal coccidioses.

Compatibilidad de 13 aislamientos de Beauveria bassiana patógenos para Rhodnius prolixus (Triatominae) con insecticidas químicos / Compatibility of 13 Beauveria bassiana isolates pathogenic to Rhodnius prolixus (Triatominae) with insecticides

Como parte de un proyecto global para seleccionar los mejores patotipos fúngicos a ser implementados en futuros programas de Manejo Integrado de Plagas de Triatominae, se evaluó la compatibilidad "in vitro" de formulaciones de 13 aislamientos nativos del hongo entomopatógeno Beauveria bassiana con insecticidas químicos organofosforados (Malatión, fenitrotión) y piretroides (cipermetrina, deltametrina). Los aislamientos fúngicos se ensayaron a 1x107 conidias/mL y los insecticidas a dos concentraciones. La evaluación de la compatibilidad se hizo mediante prueba de germinación conidial en medio sólido (Sabouraud), que se observó a las 24 horas. Las formulaciones ensayadas afectaron significativamente (P< 0,0000) la germinación conidial, aunque de una manera diferencial dependiendo del aislamiento fúngico, el insecticida y la dosis. El porcentaje promedio de germinación fue afectado en >90%, especialmente a las dosis recomendadas, en todos los aislamientos, con respecto al testigo (control). La cipermetrina manifestó a ambas dosis un comportamiento francamente esporocida sobre todos los 13 aislamientos, y la deltametrina la mayor compatibilidad, particularmente a la mitad de la dosis recomendada.

As part of a global project under current implementation aimed to search optimal fungal pathotypes to be used in integrate pest management (IPM) against Triatomine vectors, the "in vitro" compatibility of 13 native Beauveria bassiana isolates with organophosphorate (malatión, fenitrothion) and pyrethroids (cipermethrine, deltamethrin) insecticides were evaluated. Fungal isolates were assayed to 1x107 conidias/mL and insecticides with two different concentrations. Compatibility of the fungal agents was evaluated based on conidial germination in a solid medium (Sabouraud Dextrose Agar) at 24 h. The results demonstrated that formulations significantly affect (P< 0,0000) the conidial germination, according to fungal isolate, insecticide and doses. Average germination percentages of all fungal isolates were adversely affected in >90%, especially at recommended doses, as compared with control ones. Cipermethrine had a clearly esporocide effect on 13 fungal isolates in both doses, and deltamethrin was the most compatible with them, especially at half the recommended doses.

Aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos y de tratamiento de cinco casos de envenenamiento por erizos de mar en Adícora, península de Paraguaná, estado Falcón, Venezuela / Clinical, epidemiological and treatment aspects of five cases of sea urchin envenomation in Adicora, Paraguaná peninsula, Falcón state, Venezuela

Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y prospectivo para analizar aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos y de tratamiento de los envenenamientos ocasionados por erizos de mar (Equinodermata) en Adícora, Península de Paraguaná, estado Falcón, Venezuela. Entre Diciembre 2006 y Diciembre de 2007, se atendieron los pacientes que se presentaron en la emergencia ambulatoria por heridas de erizos de mar. Se hizo evaluación clínica e interrogatorio. El tratamiento consistió de aplicación tópica de solución antiséptica yodada; anestésico local, analgésico antiinflamatorio endovenoso, antibiótico terapia per os y toxoide tetánico. Se registró 1 (20%) individuo herido por Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck, 1816) y 4 (80%) por Echinometra lucunter (Linneaus, 1758), todos los casos eran turistas foráneos: 4 (80%) varones y 1 (20%) del sexo femenino, siendo 3 (60%) niños escolares y 2 (40%) adultos jóvenes. Los accidentes ocurrieron durante los meses de Febrero (3/5; 60%), Agosto (1/5; 20%) y Junio (1/5; 20%), mayormente en horas vespertinas (80%) durante actividades recreativas. Los pacientes asistieron a la emergencia ambulatoria entre 10 a 15 minutos después del accidente, con un tiempo promedio de12 ± 2,74. Las heridas punzantes se presentaron de forma de “puntos negros” con 1-8 espinas, siendo localizadas todas en los miembros inferiores. Las manifestaciones clínicas observadas fueron: dolor intenso, eritema y edema, en 100% de los casos. Se obtuvo una evolución postratamiento satisfactoria entre 20-45 minutos. Los envenenamientos por erizos de mar en Adícora, estado Falcón, Venezuela, se presentaron en una frecuencia baja, con manifestaciones clínicas a nivel local, requiriendo tratamiento sintomático, las cuales si se atienden a tiempo y se retiran las espinas evolucionan sin complicaciones

A descriptive and prospective survey was conducted to investigate epidemiological, clinical and treatment profiles on injuries caused by sea urchins (Equinodermata). Between December 2006 and December 2007, patients with sea urchin injuries were attended in ambulatory emergency facilities at Adicora, Falcón state, Paraguaná peninsula, a semiarid north-western region from Venezuela.Subjects were clinically examined and interrogated. Treatment consisted of application of topical antiseptic povidona-iodine solution; local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory analgesic administered intravenously, antibiotic therapy per os and tetanus inmunization. Envenomations by the green sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck, 1816) (n=1, 20%) and the black sea urchin Echinometra lucunter (Linneaus, 1758) (n=4, 80%) were recorded. Visitors were involved in all cases: 4 (80%) males and 1 (20%) female, being 3 (60%) scholar age children and 2 (40%) young adults. The accidents occurred during February (3/5; 60%), August (1/5; 20%) and June (1/5; 20%), in the afternoon (80%) when individuals were bathing or swimming at the beach. The time between ambulatory medical assistance and the accident varied from 10 to 15 minutes, with a mean time of 12 ± 2.74. The puncture injuries were located on the lower limbs in all patients, with 1 – 8 spines. Clinical manifestations observed were: intense pain, edema and erythema in all cases, with no systemic compliance. All patients had a satisfactory post -treatment evolution, between 20 to 45 minutes. Injuries by sea urchins in Adicora, Paraguaná peninsula, Falcón state, Venezuela, appeared with a low frequency and local manifestations, requiring symptomatic treatment. Lesions with immediate medical treatment and the complete removal of spines evolved with no complications

Aislamiento de enterobacterias en la mosca común (Musca domestica) en Coro, estado Falcón, Venezuela / Isolation of enterobacteria from Musca domestica in Coro, Falcon state, Venezuela

La mosca común (Musca domestica) es una especie con una amplia ubicuidad adaptada a los ambientes humanos, y que constituye un problema de salud pública en aquellas áreas rurales y urbanas con un inadecuado manejo sanitario. En un intento por aislar enterobacterias en adultos de M. domestica, entre Enero y Mayo de 2006 se han recolectado, mediante mallas entomológicas ad hoc, 30 ejemplares en tres sitios de la ciudad de Coro, estado Falcón, Venezuela: mercado municipal (N=10), Hospital Universitario “Alfredo Van Grieken” (HUAVG) (N=10) y basurero municipal (N=10). El análisis bacteriológico reveló la presencia en el 96,67% de las moscas sembradas de seis géneros y diez especies de bacterias Gram negativas de la familia Enterobacteriaceae, incluyendo: Enterobacter cloacae, E. gergoviae, E. aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Pantoea agglomerans, Proteus mirabilis, P. vulgaris, Providencia rettgeri, P. alcalifaciens y Morganella morganii. De éstas, se aislaron siete especies de enterobacterias en las moscas capturadas en los alrededores del HUAVG, y seis en el mercado y el basurero municipales. P. agglomerans (30%: 9/30), P. mirabilis (23,33%: 7/30) y E. cloacae (16,67%: 5/30) fueron las especies bacterianas más frecuentemente aisladas. Como las especies de Enterobacteriaceae detectadas en el presente trabajo en M. domestica también han sido aisladas en infecciones dérmicas, urinarias, pulmonares y gastrointestinales de humanos del HUAVG, se sugiere por lo tanto que la mosca común pudiera estar jugando un papel importante como forente en la transmisión de bacterias potencialmente patógenas para el hombre en ambientes hospitalarios, domiciliarios y establecimientos de ventas de alimentos (mercados) de la ciudad de Coro, estado Falcón, Venezuela.

The housefly (Musca domestica) is a species and is characteristically associated with human activity. Houseflies constitute a health hazard in rural and urban areas with poor sanitary facilities. Between January and May 2006, enterobacteria were isolated in 30 adults of Musca domestica captured in 3 municipal environments: an out market (N=10), a dumping ground (N=10) and a hospital (HUAVG) (N=10), from Coro city, Falcón state, Venezuela. Bacteriological analysis revealed the presence of 10 Gram negative bacterial species (Enterobacteriaceae) in 96.67% of the flies cultured, including: Enterobacter cloacae, E. gergoviae, E. aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Pantoea agglomerans, Proteus mirabilis, P. vulgaris, Providencia rettgeri, P. alcalifaciens y Morganella morganii. Of these, seven enterobacteria species were isolated from flies collected in HUAVG, and six each from those caught in market and dumping ground areas. Pantoea agglomerans (30%: 9/30), P. mirabilis (23.33%: 7/30) and E. cloacae (16.67%: 5/30) were the enterobacteria most frequently detected. The Enterobacteriaceae specie isolated here from M. domestica also has been detected in human dermal, urinary, pulmonary and gastrointestinal infections at HUAVG. Therefore, the role of the housefly as a potential mechanical vector of potentially pathogenic enterobacteria to humans in hospital, domiciliary and food supply environments from Coro city, Falcón state, Venezuela, is suggested.

Evaluación parasitológica de hortalizas comercializadas en Coro estado Falcón Venezuela / Parasitological evaluation of vegetables commercially traded in Coro, Falcón state, Venezuela

El consumo de hortalizas crudas representa un vehículo importante en la transmisión delas parasitosis intestinales. Entre enero y abril de 2006, se evaluaron parasitológicamente mediante lavado con agua destilada estéril, sedimentación espontánea por 24 horas, centrifugación [331de fuerza centrífuga relativa (FCR) x g, por 3-5 minutos] y la observación microscópica de tinciones de Lugol y Kinyoun, 127 muestras de vegetales correspondientes a 10 especies de hortalizas, las cuales se obtuvieron al azar en mercados y supermercados de la ciudad de Coro, estado Falcón, Venezuela. Se detectó una prevalencia global del 32,28% (41/127), siendo el apio españa (100%), el repollo (64,29%) y la lechuga (44,44%) las hortalizas que presentaron mayores porcentajes de contaminación parasitaria. Los parásitos intestinales más frecuentemente observados fueron: Ascaris sp. (11,81%) y los coccideos intestinales Cyclospora sp. (8,66%) y Cryptosporidium sp.(5,51%). No se encontró una relación estadísticamente significativa entre tipo de establecimiento(público o privado) y los porcentajes de contaminación (P > 0,05). En relación con el sitio de origen del cultivo, sólo se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los porcentajes globales de hortalizas contaminadas provenientes de la región andina y la falconiana (c2=7,61; P= 0,01). Se sugiere que las hortalizas y vegetales expendidos en los mercados y supermercados de la ciudad de Coro pueden potencialmente jugar un papel significativo en la diseminación de enfermedades parasitarias vehiculizadas por alimentos. Se recomienda la fiscalización sanitaria permanente de los procesos pre y post cosecha, y la implementación obligatoria de los exámenes coproscópicos a los manipuladores de hortalizas

The consumption of raw vegetables is amajor way in the transmission of intestinal parasiticinfections. Between January and April 2006, a total of127 samples from 10 different vegetable species wererandomly selected from markets and supermarketslocated in Coro, Falcon state, Venezuela. Botanicalsamples were washed with sterile distillated waterallowing sedimentation at room temperature for 24h.Five mL of sediment were centrifuged at 331 relativecentrifuge force (RCF) x g for 3-5min. Sediment wasexamined in lugol and Kinyoun stained slides throughlight microscopy. The global prevalence of the parasiteswas 32.28% (41/127), with higher contaminationpercentages for celery (100%), cabbage (64.29%)and lettucee (44.44%). Ascaris sp. (11.81%) and theintestinal coccidians Cyclospora sp. (8.66%) andCryptosporidium sp. (5.1%) were the most commonisolated parasites. There was not found a statisticallysignificant association between type of trading local(private or popular) and contamination frequencies(P > 0.05). In relation to crop origin, a statisticallysignificant difference was only detected between globalpercentages of contaminated vegetables coming fromAndean and Falcon state regions (c2=7.61; P= 0.01).The potential role of vegetables in the transmissionof foodborne parasitic infections in Coro city, Falconstate, Venezuela, is suggested. A continuous sanitaryprocedure during the pre-and post-harvest crop processand an obligatory implementation of coproscopictesting for vegetable handlers, is recommended

[Clinical, epidemiological and treatment aspects of 10 cases of saltwater stingray envenomation]. / Aspectos clinicos, epidemiológicos y de tratamiento de 10 casos de envenenamiento por raya marina.

INTRODUCTION: Stingrays are cartilaginous elasmobranches fishes that can cause severe and potentially fatal injuries in humans. OBJECTIVE: A descriptive and prospective survey was conducted to analyze epidemiological, clinical and treatment aspects of injuries caused by marine stingrays in Adicora, Paraguaná peninsula, Falcon State, a northwestern, semiarid region of Venezuela. METHODS: Between December 2006 and April 2007, patients with saltwater stingray injuries, attended in the ambulatory emergency service of Adicora, were clinically examined and interrogated. Treatment consisted on the application of a topical antiseptic solution (povidone-iodine), intravenous administration of an anti-inflammatory analgesic, antibiotic therapy per os and tetanus immunization. RESULTS: Ten cases of injures caused by the marine stingray Dasyatis guttata (Dasyatidae) were recorded. 6 (60%) of the envenomation cases occurred in males and 4 (40%) in females, being 8 (80%) adults between 20 and 64 years-old and 2 (2%) above that age. Most of the accidents occurred at December and April holidays (90%) and during the late part of the day (80%) when bathing or swimming at or near the beach (70%). The time between ambulatory medical assistance and the accident varied from 5 to 7 minutes, with a mean time of 5.6 +/- 0.84. Injuries were located at lower limbs in all patients with circular lesions of diameters ranging from 1 to 1.53 cm (X: 1.41 +/- 0.22); bleeding was observed in 70% of the cases while 20% showed cellulitis and cutaneous necrosis. Other clinical manifestations were intense local and irradiated pain [Visual analog scale (VAS) = X: 9.5 +/- 0.71)] and erythema (100%). Systemic symptoms included dyspnea (50%) (VAS = X: 5.4 +/- 1.52) and tachycardia (10%). All patients had a satisfactory post-treatment evolution after 20 to 30 minutes (X = 23.1 +/- 3.41) with pain and dyspnea VAS mean values significantly lower (X = 0.55 +/- 0.44; t = 35.5, p = 0.0001; X = 0.1 +/- 0.22; t = 5.57, p = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSIONS. Injuries caused by the marine stingray D. guttata are a public health problem, appear to have seasonal pattern, and can produce clinical manifestations of significant severity.

[Scorpionfish (Scorpaena plumieri) envenomation in a fishing and turistic community of Paraguaná peninsula, Falcón state, Venezuela: clinical, epidemiological and treatment aspects]. / Envenenamiento por pez escorpión (Scorpaena plumieri) en una comunidad pesquera y turística de la península de Paraguaná, estado Falcón, Venezuela: aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos y tratamiento.

Thirty six patients apparently envenomed by the scorpion fish Scorpaena plumieri, consulting to the ambulatory emergency of a fishing and turistic town Adícora, state Falcón, Venezuela, from December 2006 to April 2007, allowed us to carry out a descriptive analysis of the clinical, epidemiology and treatment of this envenoming. Envenomation percentages were not significantly different between sex or age (X2=0.03, p= 0.758; X2=0.06; p=0.81, respectively). Most of the accidents occurred in february and april (> 50%), in the afternoon (83.33%) when individuals were bathing or swimming at the beach (97.22%), suggesting a seasonal pattern. The time between ambulatory medical assistance and the accident varied from 3 to 30 minutes, with a mean time of 5.97 +/- 4.39. The cutting injuries were located at the feet in all patients, with 0.2 to 3 cm (X=1.04 +/- 0.86) of length and between 1 to 2 mm of width. Clinical manifestations observed were: intense and irradiated pain (100%) (VAS=X: 9.39 +/- 0.60), edema (27.78%) and erythema (22.22%). One case had systemic manifestations: hypotension and faintness. Treatment consisted of infiltration with lidocaine (1%), systemic anti-inflmatory-analgesia (100 mg, orally every 8 hours for 5 days) and antibiotic therapy per os (500 mg, 2 daily dose for 10 days). All patients had a satisfactory post-treatment evolution, between 5 to 120 (X=30.11 +/- 33.30) minutes, with a pain VAS mean values significantly lower (0.72 +/- 0.62; t=52.2, p=0.0001).

Envenenamiento por pez escorpión (Scorpaena plumieri) en comunidad pesquera y turística de la península de Paraguaná, estado Falcón Venezuela: aspecto clínicos, epidemiológicos y tratamiento / Scorpionfish (Scorpaena plumieri) envenomation in a fishing and turistic community pf Paraguaná peninsula Falcon state Venezuela: clinical, epidemiological and treatment aspects

Entre diciembre 2006 y abril de 2007, se realizó un estudio descriptivo y prospectivo para analizar los perfiles clínicos, epidemiológicos y del tratamiento de los envenenamientos ocasionados por el pez escorpión Scorpaena plumieri en 36 individuos que se presentaron en la emergencia ambulatoria de Adícora, estado Falcón, Venezuela. Los porcentajes de envenenamientos no fueron estadísticamente significativos entre sexos ni grupos etarios (X2=0,03, p= 0,758; X2=0,06; p= 0,81, respectivamente). Los accidentes predominaron durante los meses festivos de febrero y abril (> 50%), lo que sugiere un patrón estacional, en horas vespertinas (83,33%) y a orillas de la playa (97,22%). Los pacientes asistieron a la emergencia ambulatoria entre 3 a 30 min después del accidente, con un tiempo promedio de 5,97 ± 4,39. Las heridas se presentaron de forma cortante, localizadas en su totalidad en la región plantar del pie, con longitudes entre 0,2 a 3 cm ( =1,04 ± 0,86) y profundidad entre 1 y 2 mm. Las manifestaciones clínicas observadas fueron: dolor intenso e irradiado (100%) [escala visual analógica VAS= : 9,39 ± 0,60], edema (27,78%) y eritema (22,22%). Un individuo presentó complicaciones sistémicas: hipotensión y desmayo. El tratamiento consistió de lidocaína (1%) infiltrada, anti-inflamatorio-analgésico sistémico vía oral (100 mg, cada 8 horas por 5 días) y antibióticoterapia per os (500 mg/2 veces al día/ 10 días), con evolución postratamiento satisfactoria entre 5 a 120 min ( = 30,11 ± 33,30) VAS de dolor promedio significativamente menor (0,72 ± 0,62; t= 52,2, p= 0,0001).

Estudio clínico-epidemiológico sobre pediculosis capitis en escolares de Coro estado Falcón Venezuela / Clinical and epidemiological study of pediculosis capitis in schoolchildren from Coro, Venezuela

Entre marzo-julio de 2003, se realizó un trabajo para estudiar aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos de la pediculosis capitis en 327 (175 varones y 152 mujeres) escolares de un sector de la ciudad de Coro, estado Falcón, Venezuela. El diagnóstico ectoparasitológico se realizó por observación directa de huevos, estados imaginales y/o pre-imaginales sobre el cuero cabelludo y/o pelo de la cabeza. Los resultados revelaron una prevalencia de pediculosis capitis del 28,8 por ciento (94/327), con porcentajes de infestación significativamente mayores en las niñas (84,0 vs. 15,9 por ciento) [Odds Ratio (OR) = 11,4; p = 0,0001] y los escolares con longitudes de cabello mayores de 3 cm (OR = 11,0; p = 0,0001), sin embargo, no fueron diferentes entre grupos de edades, razas, color o tipos de pelo (P > 0,05). Se detectó un predominio de liendres (85,1 por ciento) ubicadas mayormente entre 3 y 5 cm del cuero cabelludo (27,7 y 21,3 por ciento), en todas las regiones de la cabeza (39,4 por ciento). Los síntomas significativamente asociados a pediculosis fueron el prurito (18 por ciento en niños infestados y 9,5 por ciento en los no infestados), con predominio nocturno (19,2 por ciento de los casos), y las adenomegalias (7,3 por ciento en niños infestados y 5,5 por ciento en los no infestados) que prevalecieron en la región cervical (14,9 por ciento) (p = 0,0001). Dentro de otros posibles factores de riesgo significativamente involucrados en la dinámica de transmisión y mantenimiento de la infestación, resaltan el bajo estrato social (OR = 2,4; p = 0,02), el hacinamiento (³ 2 persona/cama; OR = 18,4; p = 0,0001), el intercambio de peines (OR = 3,8; p = 0,0001), tener convivientes con pediculosis (OR = 2,8; p = 0,0001), y haber tenido una infestación anterior (OR = 9,5; p = 0,0001).

[Clinical and epidemiological study of pediculosis capitis in schoolchildren from Coro, Venezuela]. / Estudio clínico-epidemiológico sobre pediculosis capitis en escolares de Coro, estado Falcón, Venezuela.

Between March-July 2003, a cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate clinical and epidemiological data on Pediculus capitis infestation among 327 (175 males and 152 females) primary school age children of an urban sector of Coro city, from the semiarid region of Falcon state, north-western Venezuela. Children were evaluated ectoparasitologically by visual inspections of heads. Overall prevalence was 28.8% (94/327). Pediculosis capitis infestation rates were significantly higher in girls (84.0 vs. 15. 9%) [Odds Ratio (OR) = 11.4; p = 0.0001] and schoolchildren with hair length > 3 cm (OR = 11.0; p = 0.0001), nevertheless these were not significantly different among age groups, races, colour and type of hair (P > 0.05). Among the clinical findings, only head pruritus (18 vs 9.5%), especially at night (19.2% cases), and lymphadenopathy (7.3 vs. 5.5%) mostly located at the cervical region (14.9%), showed significantly higher percentages in infested children than in uninfested ones. Of interest was that lower socioeconomic levels (OR = 2.4; p = 0.02), high levels of overcrowding conditions (> or = 2 persons/bed: OR, 18.4; p = 0. 00001), sharing of combs and brushes (OR = 3.8; p = 0.0001), living with infested people (OR = 2.8; p = 0.0001), and showing previous infestation (OR = 9.5; p = 0.0001), also appeared to be significant factors associated with transmission and maintenance of pediculosis capitis among school children.

Estudio clínico-epidemiológico de enterobiasis en preescolares y escolares de Taratara, Estado Falcón, Venezuela / Clinical and Epidemiological study of enterobiasis in preschool and schoolchildren from Taratara, Falcon State, Venezuela

Durante Julio y Noviembre 2004, se realizó un estudio para determinar los perfiles clínicos y epidemiológicos de enterobiasis en 100 preescolares (2-5 años) y escolares (6-12 años) de Taratara, Estado Falcón, Venezuela. Se hizo evaluación clínica y anamnesis para la búsqueda de signos y síntomas y conductas antihigiénicas de los niños que usualmente se encuentran asociados a enterobiasis. La detección de la infección por E. vermicularis se realizó mediante la aplicación de la técnica de la cinta adhesiva transparente de Graham. El estado socio-económico de los núcleos familiares se estableció por el método de Graffar. El análisis de los resultados reveló una prevalencia global de 45% (45/100), no detectándose diferencias estadísti-camente significativas entre sexos ni edad (x2 = 0,0016 y 0,087, p = 0,968 y 0,769, respecti-vamente). El prurito anal fue la manifestación clínica más frecuentemente observada, y la única significativamente asociada con la enterobiasis (x2= 7,74; p = 0,005). El método de Graffar reveló que la mayoría de los hogares son de estratos socioeconómicos paupérrimos: IV (77,6%) y V (17,2%). Aparecen como factores de riesgo significativamente asociados a la transmisión: jugar con mascotas (OR = 3,90), el hacinamiento (e¼6Personas/casa) (OR= 2,4), el bajo nivel de instrucción educativo de la madre (OR = 7,88) y el consumo del agua sin hervir (OR = 1,01). La diseminación aerosol, nasal y la retroinfección, en vez de la vía "mano-ano-boca", parecieran estar jugando un papel más importante y relevante en la transmisión de E. vermicularis entre los niños de Taratara, Estado Falcón, Venezuela.

Tratamiento tópico de la escabiosis con azufre precipitado en petrolato, en escolares de Coro, Estado Falcón, Venezuela / Topical treatment with precipitated sulphur petrolatum for school aged children scabies from coro, Falcon State, Venezuela

Entre Marzo-Junio de 2003, se ha llevado a cabo un estudio descriptivo y transversal controlado para evaluar la eficacia, seguridad, aceptación y tolerancia del ungüento azufre precipitado en petrolato (2,5%) en 71 escolares con signos y síntomas sugestivos de escabiosis, provenientes de Coro, Estado Falcón, Venezuela. El diagnóstico se hizo mediante datos anamnésicos y clínicos, y raspado de lesiones, procesándose microscópicamente con KOH (10%). El ungüento se aplicó a 1 dosis diaria durante 8 horas por 2 días, con 2 semanas de reposo, repitiéndose la dosis durante otros 2 días, retirándose la mezcla con jabón neutro y usando crema lubricante. La evaluación de la eficacia se realizó mediante cuantificación y raspado de las lesiones cutáneas y escala analógica visual (VAS) de prurito, al cabo de 7 - 30 días después de haberse finalizado la aplicación tópica. La valoración de los efectos colaterales se hizo por anamnesis y observaciones del médico. Todos los 71 niños presentaron escabiosis, y concluyeron el tratamiento, con una eficacia terapéutica del 100%, registrándose una reducción altamente significativa (p < 0,0001) al término del tratamiento del número promedio de lesiones (t =12,83; 231,14 vs 0) y VAS de prurito (t = 13,58; 39,7 vs 0,20). No se documentaron recidivas ni efectos adversos severos, siendo la tolerancia y aceptación satisfactoria. El ungüento azufre precipitado en petrolato al 2,5% es una herramienta quimioterapéutica eficaz, segura, de fácil acceso y aplicación, de tolerancia y aceptabilidad satisfactoria, y de bajos costos para el tratamiento tópico de la escabiosis infantil en los países en desarrollo.

[Efficacy, safety and acceptability of precipitated sulphur petrolatum for topical treatment of scabies at the city of Coro, Falcon State, Venezuela]. / Eficacia, seguridad y aceptabilidad del azufre precipitado en petrolato para el tratamiento tópico de la escabiosis en un sector de Coro, Estado Falcón, Venezuela.

INTRODUCTION: In spite of sulphur ointment has been applied during centuries in the treatment of human scabies, nevertheless, its clinical efficacy, as well as safety and acceptability has not been clearly demonstrated. AIM: During September 2001-March 2002, attempts have been made to assess the efficacy, safety and acceptability of a mixture of precipitated sulphur 2-8% petrolatum for the treatment of 40 ambulatory consultant patients, of all age groups, including children under 1 year of age, pregnant and lacting women, with suggestive sarcoptic cutaneous lesions from Coro, Falcon State, Venezuela. METHODS: The diagnosis was made by clinical examination and microscope observation (KOH 10%) of scrapings of cutaneous lesions. The acceptability were quantified using visual analogue scale (VAS) and other two behavioral (BS) scores. Enrolled patients applied ointment 1 daily dose for 6 days, 1 week rest, repeated for 2 days, thoroughly washing off with neutral soap and applying lubricant cream. Differential schedule concentrations were: 2% for children below 2 years and up to 6 years old; 2-5% for scholars, adolescents and pregnant; 5-8% for adults and elderly; being exposition time to the ointment of 3 hours for children under 2 years old, and overnight for reminding age-groups. Efficacy was evaluated 7-30 days post-treatment by clinic observation, quantification and scraping of the sarcoptic lesions. A safety assessment was based on adverse effects reported by patients or observed by the physician. RESULTS: 38 (95%) out of 40 patients were clinical and ectoparasitologically cured 7-30 days after cessation of ointment application, with no relapses or relevant adverse effects, producing a significant (t = 9.26; p < 0.0001) decrease at the end of evaluation period in the median values of number of lesions (28.08-9.18 vs. 0.00). Only 2 (5%) patients developed a mild dermatitis reaction, and subsequently no completed the follow up. CONCLUSION: It's proven highly therapeutic effectiveness as well as widely availability, low costs with no serious side effects and satisfactory acceptability (X; VAS = 1.14 +/- 1.67; BS: 0.25 +/- 0.38, 0.53 +/- 0.43), allows us to recommend the topical use of the ointment sulfur-petrolatum for the treatment of human scabies, especially in children under 5 years of age, pregnant and lactating women and elderly, in which other drugs are not recommended by its potential toxicity.

[Centipede (Scolopendra sp.) envenomation in a rural village of semi-arid region from Falcon State, Venezuela]. / Envenenamiento por ciempiés (Scolopendra sp.) en una población rural de la zona seminárida del estado Falcón, Venezuela.

INTRODUCTION: Centipedes are invertebrate animals belonging to Phylum Arthropoda, Class Chilopoda, with a first pair of front legs that has been modified to form large, poisonous fangs connected to venomous glands. Likely, due to relatively benignity of the clinical manifestations, in Venezuela studies and research on centipede envenomation are virtually scarse. AIM: The objective of this work was to study, biological, clinical, epidemiological and treatment profiles of envenomation caused by centipedes from Río Seco town, semi-arid area of Falcon State, Venezuelan north-western region. METHODS: Between August 2001 and July 2002, patients who referred centipede attack were attended in ambulatory emergency. These were clinically examined, and by means of anamnesis the site and time of bite were recorded. The centipede was collected for identification. Ringer solution and non steroid analgesic plus hidrocortisone (500 mg, one doses) were administered parenterally and intravenously, respectively. In one case with abscess, the patient received intravenously antibiotic therapy for 3 days plus orally for 4 days (500 mg every 6 hours). RESULTS: It was registered 17 cases bitten by Scolopendra sp., aged 3-52 years, 9 females and 8 males, with an estimated Incidence Density (ID) of 1.34/100 persons/year. The majority of the accidents prevailed in the dry season (100%), inside the home (70.59%), during the night (52.94%) and on the hands (29.41%). Most clinical manifestations were local: hyperthermia (100%), pain (64.7%) and paresthesias (52.94%). The majority of the patients resolved symptoms quickly between 2-24 hours after cessation of the treatment (analgesic + hydrocortisone). CONCLUSION: Due to be expected an ID between 1.28 x 10(-12) and 0.010 (X = 0.0021)/100 persons/year, thus envenomation rate at Rio Seco, Falcon State, Venezuela, can be considered of "very high" or epidemic. Sinanthropic and domestic habits of scolopendromorphae centipedes increase the frequency of stings. Only symptomatic therapeutical treatment was required.