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1.
Korean J Parasitol ; 58(2): 109-119, 2020 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32418379

ABSTRACT

Soil-transmitted helminths and Schistosoma haematobium affect more than 3 billion people globally and mainly occur in sub-Saharan Africa. The present study assessed the overall infection status of a 1716-student cohort of school-children in Zanzibar and applied mass drug administration (MDA) to the cohort from 2007 to 2009. Schools in Pemba, Zanzibar, had a much higher prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections than those in Unguja, and the Chaani, Ghana, and Machui schools of Unguja exhibited high S. haematobium infection rates. The MDA program only partially controlled parasite infections, owing to high rates of re-infection. The infection rate of S. haematobium across all 10 schools, for example, was only reduced by 1.8%, and even this change not significant, even though the S. haematobiuminfection rates of the Chaani and Mzambarauni schools were significantly reduced from 64.4 and 23.4%, respectively, at the first screening, to 7.3 and 2.3% at the last screening. The overall infection rate of Ascaris lumbricoides was reduced from 36.0% at the first screening to 22.6% at the last screening. However, the infection rates for both Trichuris trichiuraand hookworm were generally unaffected by MDA. In the future, parasite control programs should involve strategically designed MDA schedules and holistic intervention (e.g., sanitation improvement, hygiene behavior changes, and control of intermediated hosts).


Subject(s)
Helminthiasis/drug therapy , Helminthiasis/prevention & control , Mass Drug Administration , Neglected Diseases , Schistosomiasis haematobia/drug therapy , Schistosomiasis haematobia/prevention & control , Cetrimonium Compounds , Child , Cohort Studies , Drug Combinations , Female , Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminthiasis/parasitology , Humans , Male , Mass Screening , Myristates , Negative Results , Nicotinic Acids , Schistosomiasis haematobia/epidemiology , Simethicone , Stearic Acids , Tanzania/epidemiology
2.
Korean J Parasitol ; 58(1): 67-72, 2020 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32145730

ABSTRACT

Human infection with Echinostoma aegyptica Khalil and Abaza, 1924 (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) is extremely rare. In this study, we confirmed E. aegyptica infection in 5 riparian residents living along the Mekong River in Savannakhet Province, Lao PDR. The patients revealed eggs of Opisthorchis viverrini/minute intestinal flukes, echinostomes, and other parasites in fecal examinations using the Kato-Katz technique. Following treatment with praziquantel 30-40 mg/kg and pyrantel pamoate 10-15 mg/kg in a single dose and purging with magnesium salts, adult specimens of various helminth species were collected. Among the trematodes, echinostome flukes of 4.5-7.6 mm in length (n = 134; av. 22.3 specimens per case) were of taxonomic interest and subjected in this study. The flukes were morphologically characterized by having total 43-45 collar spines arranged in 2 alternating rows (corner spines usually 5 on each side) and compatible with previous descriptions of E. aegyptica. The patients were mixed-infected with other helminths, so specific clinical manifestations due to this echinostome fluke were difficult to determine. The present paper describes for the first time human E. aegyptica infections in Lao PDR. This is the second report of human infection (2nd-6th cases) with E. aegyptica in the world following the first one from China.


Subject(s)
Echinostoma/isolation & purification , Trematode Infections/parasitology , Animals , Humans , Laos , Praziquantel/administration & dosage , Trematode Infections/drug therapy
3.
Korean J Parasitol ; 57(4): 451-456, 2019 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31533415

ABSTRACT

Adult specimens of Echinochasmus caninus n. comb. (Verma, 1935) (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) (syn. Episthmium caninum Yamaguti, 1958) were recovered from 11 riparian people who resided along the Mekong River in Khammouane Province, Lao PDR. In fecal examinations done by the Kato-Katz technique, the cases revealed eggs of Opisthorchis viverrini/minute intestinal flukes, hookworms, and in 2 cases echinostome eggs. To recover the adult helminths, praziquantel 30-40 mg/kg and pyrantel pamoate 10-15 mg/kg in a single dose were given and purged with magnesium salts. Various species of trematodes (including O. viverrini and Haplorchis spp.), cestodes, and nematodes were recovered from their diarrheic stools. Among the trematodes, small echinostome flukes (n=42; av. 3.8 specimens per case) of 0.7-1.2 mm in length are subjected in this study. They are morphologically characterized by having 24 collar spines interrupted dorsally and anterior extension of vitellaria from the cirrus sac or genital pore level to the posterior end of the body. Particularly based on this extensive distribution of vitellaria, the specific diagnosis was made as Echinochasmus caninus. The cases were co-infected with various other helminth parasites; thus, clinical manifestations specific for this echinostome infection were difficult to determine. The present paper describes for the first time human E. caninus infections in Lao PDR. Our cases marked the 4-14th human infections with this echinostome around the world following the 3 previous cases reported from Thailand.


Subject(s)
Echinostomatidae/isolation & purification , Trematode Infections/parasitology , Adult , Animals , Echinostomatidae/anatomy & histology , Feces/parasitology , Female , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Rivers , Trematode Infections/epidemiology , Young Adult
4.
Korean J Parasitol ; 57(6): 657-664, 2019 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31914519

ABSTRACT

We identified the echinostome metacercariae in Chinese mystery snails, Cipangopaludina chinensis malleata, from Xiengkhuang Province, Lao PDR with morphologies of adult worms recovered. Total 20 snails were examined with artificial digestion method and then the collected metacercariae were orally infected to a mouse and a rat. Adult worms recovered from experimental animals were observed with a light microscope and a SEM. The metacercariae were round, 125×123 µm in average size, with a moderately thick cyst wall, collar spines distributed in the head collar and excretory granules in 2 canals of excretory tube. Adult flukes (3-week-old in a rat) were elongated, ventrally curved and 5.310×1.023 mm in average size. Head collar distinct, bearing 43 collar spines with 5 end group ones on each side. Oral sucker subterminal, prepharynx very short, pharynx well developed, and esophagus relatively short. Cirrus sac well developed, with a saccular seminal vesicle, and ventral sucker very large. Ovary round and on the median line of the body. Testes tandom and elongated. Eggs operculated, elliptical and 90×57 µm in average size. In the SEM observation, the head crown prominent, with 43 collar spines resembled with horns of younger stag. Scale-like tegumental spines were densely distributed on the surface between the head collar and ventral sucker, and their densities were decreased posteriorly. Conclusively, the metacercariae detected in C. chinensis malleata from Lao PDR were identified as those of Echinostoma macrorchis based on the morphological characteristics of adult worms.


Subject(s)
Echinostoma/isolation & purification , Echinostomiasis/parasitology , Snails/parasitology , Animals , Body Size , Echinostoma/growth & development , Echinostoma/ultrastructure , Female , Humans , Laos , Male , Mice , Mice, Inbred ICR , Microscopy, Electron, Scanning , Rats , Rats, Sprague-Dawley
5.
Korean J Parasitol ; 56(1): 75-79, 2018 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29529854

ABSTRACT

Adult specimens of Echinostoma ilocanum (Garrison, 1908) Odhner, 1911 (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) were recovered from 2 riparian people who resided along the Mekong River in Savannakhet Province, Lao PDR. In fecal examinations done by the Kato-Katz technique, they revealed echinostome eggs together with eggs of Opisthorchis viverrini (and minute intestinal fluke eggs) and hookworms. To recover the adult flukes, they were treated with praziquantel 30-40 mg/kg in a single dose and purged with magnesium salts. A total of 658 adult fluke specimens were recovered from the 2 people; 456 from case 1 and 202 from case 2. Specimens from case 1 consisted of 335 echinostomes (301 E. ilocanum and 34 species undetermined), 120 O. viverrini, and 1 Haplorchis taichui, and those from case 2 consisted of 36 E. ilocanum, 134 O. viverrini, and 32 H. taichui. Thus, the number of E. ilocanum specimens was 337 in total (average per person, 168.5). From this study, it is suggested that foodborne intestinal flukes and liver flukes are highly prevalent along the Mekong River in Savannakhet Province. The present report describes for the first time human infections with E. ilocanum in Lao PDR.


Subject(s)
Echinostoma/isolation & purification , Echinostomiasis/parasitology , Ancylostomatoidea/isolation & purification , Animals , Echinostoma/anatomy & histology , Echinostoma/ultrastructure , Echinostomiasis/epidemiology , Feces/parasitology , Female , Foodborne Diseases/epidemiology , Foodborne Diseases/parasitology , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Opisthorchis/isolation & purification , Parasite Egg Count , Parasitology/methods , Praziquantel/administration & dosage
6.
Acta Trop ; 182: 128-134, 2018 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29486176

ABSTRACT

Opisthorchis viverrini is a group 1 carcinogen that causes cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Although opisthorchiasis is known to be severely endemic to several areas along the Mekong River in Lao PDR, the CCA status of residents of this region is still under investigation. In this study, we analyzed the results of abdominal ultrasonography (US) performed on 6113 residents in 9 provinces (Vientiane Municipality, Savannakhet, Phongsaly, Khammouane, Saravane, Champasak, Vientiane, Xieng Khuouang, and Luang Prabang provinces) of Lao PDR from 2007 to 2011. Overall, 51 cases (0.83%) were detected with suspected CCA. The CCA rates in Vientiane Municipality and in Savannakhet and Khammouane provinces were 1.45%, 1.58%, and 1.09%, respectively. However, in the other 6 provinces, the rate of CCA averaged only 0.26%. In the 3 provinces with higher rates of CCA, bile duct dilatation (grade ≥ 2) was also significantly more prevalent (P < 0.0001). These results are concordant with previous reports showing a higher endemicity of opisthorchiasis in Vientiane Municipality and in Savannakhet and Khammouane provinces.


Subject(s)
Bile Duct Neoplasms/epidemiology , Cholangiocarcinoma/epidemiology , Endemic Diseases/statistics & numerical data , Opisthorchiasis/complications , Opisthorchis , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Bile Duct Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Bile Duct Neoplasms/parasitology , Cholangiocarcinoma/diagnostic imaging , Cholangiocarcinoma/parasitology , Cross-Sectional Studies , Female , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Opisthorchiasis/parasitology , Prevalence , Rivers/parasitology , Ultrasonography/methods , Ultrasonography/statistics & numerical data , Young Adult
7.
Korean J Parasitol ; 55(2): 213-218, 2017 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28506046

ABSTRACT

Most men infected with Trichomonas vaginalis are asymptomatic and can remain undiagnosed and untreated. This has been hypothesized to result in chronic persistent prostatic infection. Adhesion of the protozoan organisms to mucosal cells is considered a first and prerequisite step for T. vaginalis infection. Adhesion of T. vaginalis to prostate epithelial cells has not yet been observed; however, there are several reports about inflammation of prostate epithelial cells induced by T. vaginalis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether adhesion and cytotoxicity of T. vaginalis are involved in inflammation of prostate epithelial cells. When RWPE-1 cells were infected with T. vaginalis (1:0.4 or 1:4), adhesion of T. vaginalis continuously increased for 24 hr or 3 hr, respectively. The cytotoxicity of prostate epithelial cells infected with T. vaginalis (RWPE-1: T. vaginalis=1:0.4) increased at 9 hr; at an infection ratio of 1:4, cytotoxicity increased after 3 hr. When the RWPE-1 to T. vaginalis ratio was 1:0.4 or 1:4, production of IL-1ß, IL-6, CCL2, and CXCL8 also increased. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was verified by measuring decreased E-cadherin and increased vimentin expression at 24 hr and 48 hr. Taken together, the results indicate that T. vaginalis adhered to prostate epithelial cells, causing cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and EMT. Our findings suggest for the first time that T. vaginalis may induce inflammation via adhesion to normal prostate epithelial cells.


Subject(s)
Epithelial Cells/parasitology , Prostate/parasitology , Trichomonas vaginalis/pathogenicity , Cells, Cultured , Cytokines/metabolism , Epithelial Cells/metabolism , Epithelial Cells/pathology , Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition , Humans , Inflammation Mediators/metabolism , Male , Prostate/cytology , Prostatitis/parasitology , Time Factors , Trichomonas Infections/parasitology
8.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(5): 515-24, 2015 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26537030

ABSTRACT

The objectives of this study was to conduct a survey on schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in order to come up with feasible control strategies in Lake Victoria basin, Tanzania. Depending on the size of the school, 150-200 schoolchildren were recruited for the study. Duplicate Kato-Katz stool smears were prepared from each child and microscopically examined for Schistosoma mansoni and STHs. Urine specimens were examined for Schistosoma haematobium eggs using the filtration technique. After the survey, mass drug administration was done using praziquantel and albendazole for schistosomiasis and STHs infections, respectively. A total of 5,952 schoolchildren from 36 schools were recruited for the study and had their stool and urine specimens examined. Out of 5,952 schoolchildren, 898 (15.1%) were positive for S. mansoni, 754 (12.6%) for hookworms, 188 (3.2%) for Ascaris lumblicoides, and 5 (0.008%) for Trichuris trichiura. Out of 5,826 schoolchildren who provided urine samples, 519 (8.9%) were positive for S. haematobium eggs. The results revealed that intestinal schistosomiasis, urogenital schistosomiasis, and STH infections are highly prevalent throughought the lake basin. The high prevalence of intestinal and urogenital schistosomisiasis in the study area was a function of the distance from Lake Victoria, the former being more prevalent at localities close to the lake, whilst the latter is more so away from it. Control of schistosomiasis and STHs in the study area requires an integrated strategy that involves provision of health education to communities, regular treatments, and provision of adequate safe water supply and sanitation facilities.


Subject(s)
Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminths/classification , Helminths/isolation & purification , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology , Schistosomiasis/epidemiology , Adolescent , Albendazole/therapeutic use , Animals , Anthelmintics/therapeutic use , Child , Feces/parasitology , Female , Helminthiasis/drug therapy , Helminthiasis/parasitology , Humans , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology , Male , Praziquantel/therapeutic use , Prevalence , Schistosomiasis/drug therapy , Schistosomiasis/parasitology , Schools , Students , Tanzania/epidemiology , Urine/parasitology
9.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(5): 525-33, 2015 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26537031

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to carry out a community survey on schistosomiais and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in order to suggest feasible and effective intervention strategies in Lake Victoria basin, Tanzania. A total of 37 communities selected from 23 districts of the 4 regions in the Lake Victoria basin of Tanzania were involved in the study. From each of the selected locality, 50 adult community members, 25 males and 25 females, were recruited for the study. Each study participant was requested to submit stool and urine specimens. From each stool specimen, duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears were prepared and microscopically examined for Schistosoma mansoni and STH eggs. Urine specimens were processed by the filtration technique and microscopically examined for Schistosoma haematobium eggs. Ultrasound examination for morbidity due to schistosomiasis was performed. Mass treatment was done using praziquantel and albendazole for schistosome and STHs infections, respectively. Out of 1,606 adults who provided stool specimens, 199 (12.4%) were positive for S. mansoni, 349 (21.7%) for hookworms, 133 (8.3%) for Ascaris lumbricoides, and 33 (2.0%) for Trichuris trichiura. Out of 1,400 participants who provided urine specimens, 25 (1.8%) were positive for S. haematobium eggs. Because of the co-endemicity of these afflictions and their impact on vulnerable population groups, the helminthiasis could be simultaneously treated with 2 drugs, praziquantel for schistosomiasis and albendazole for STHs.


Subject(s)
Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminthiasis/pathology , Helminths/classification , Helminths/isolation & purification , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/pathology , Schistosomiasis/epidemiology , Schistosomiasis/pathology , Adult , Albendazole/therapeutic use , Animals , Anthelmintics/therapeutic use , Feces/parasitology , Female , Helminthiasis/drug therapy , Helminthiasis/parasitology , Humans , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/parasitology , Lakes , Male , Microscopy , Praziquantel/therapeutic use , Prevalence , Schistosomiasis/drug therapy , Schistosomiasis/parasitology , Tanzania/epidemiology , Urine/parasitology
10.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(5): 545-51, 2015 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26537033

ABSTRACT

Schistosomiasis is one of the important neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Tanzania, particularly in Lake Victoria zone. This baseline survey was a part of the main study of integrated control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) aimed at describing morbidity patterns due to intestinal schistosomiasis among adults living on Kome Island, Sengerema District, Tanzania. Total 388 adults from Kome Islands (about 50 people from each village) aged between 12 and 85 years, were examined by abdominal ultrasound according to the Niamey protocol. Liver image patterns (LIPs) A and B were considered normal, and C-F as distinct periportal fibrosis (PPF). The overall prevalence of PPF was 42.2%; much higher in males than in females (47.0% in male vs 34.4% in females, P=0.007). Abnormal increase of segmental branch wall thickness (SBWT) and dilated portal vein diameter (PVD) were also more common in males than in females. Hepatosplenomegaly was frequently encountered; 68.1% had left liver lobe hepatomegaly and 55.2% had splenomegaly. Schistosoma mansoni-related morbidity is quite high among adults in this community justifying the implementation of integrated control strategies through mass drug administration, improved water supply (pumped wells), and health education that had already started in the study area.


Subject(s)
Liver Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology , Liver Diseases, Parasitic/pathology , Schistosomiasis mansoni/epidemiology , Schistosomiasis mansoni/pathology , Splenic Diseases/epidemiology , Splenic Diseases/pathology , Abdomen/diagnostic imaging , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Child , Cross-Sectional Studies , Female , Humans , Islands , Lakes , Liver Diseases, Parasitic/diagnosis , Male , Middle Aged , Prevalence , Schistosomiasis mansoni/diagnosis , Sex Factors , Splenic Diseases/diagnosis , Splenic Diseases/parasitology , Tanzania/epidemiology , Ultrasonography , Young Adult
11.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(5): 553-9, 2015 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26537034

ABSTRACT

Research on micro-level assessment of the changes of socio-economic status following health interventions is very scarce. The use of household asset data to determine wealth indices is a common procedure for estimating socio-economic position in resource poor settings. In such settings information about income is usually lacking, and the collection of individual consumption or expenditure data would require in-depth interviews, posing a considerable risk of bias. In this study, we determined the socio-economic status of 213 households in a community population in an island in the north-western Tanzania before and 3 year after implementation of a participatory hygiene and sanitation transformation (PHAST) intervention to control schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections. We constructed a household 'wealth index' based housing construction features (e.g., type of roof, walls, and floor) and durable assets ownership (e.g., bicycle, radio, etc.). We employed principal components analysis and classified households into wealth quintiles. The study revealed that asset variables with positive factor scores were associated with higher socio-economic status, whereas asset variables with negative factor scores were associated with lower socio-economic status. Overall, households which were rated as the poorest and very poor were on the decrease, whereas those rated as poor, less poor, and the least poor were on the increase after PHAST intervention. This decrease/increase was significant. The median shifted from -0.4376677 to 0.5001073, and the mean from -0.2605787 (SD; 2.005688) to 0.2605787 (SD; 1.831199). The difference in socio-economic status of the people between the 2 phases was highly statistically significant (P<0.001). We argue that finding of this study should be treated with caution as there were other interventions to control schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections which were running concurrently on Kome Island apart from PHAST intervention.


Subject(s)
Communicable Disease Control/methods , Endemic Diseases/prevention & control , Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminthiasis/prevention & control , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/prevention & control , Schistosomiasis/epidemiology , Schistosomiasis/prevention & control , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Family Characteristics , Female , Helminthiasis/drug therapy , Humans , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/drug therapy , Islands , Lakes , Male , Middle Aged , Schistosomiasis/drug therapy , Social Class , Tanzania/epidemiology , Treatment Outcome , Young Adult
12.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(5): 561-9, 2015 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26537035

ABSTRACT

Schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections are widespread diseases of public health importance in Tanzania. A study on perceptions and practices related to schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections was undertaken among a community population of Kome Island in Sengerema District, north-western Tanzania, where intestinal schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections are endemic. Schistosomiasis and intestinal worm-related perceptions and practices were assessed before and 3 years after implementation of a participatory hygiene and sanitation transformation (PHAST) intervention as a control measure. Data were obtained from baseline and post-intervention knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) questionnaire surveys conducted twice in 2009 and 2012 among 82 individuals aged ≥15 years. We found significant increases in respondents' knowledge of the cause, transmission, symptoms, health consequences, and prevention of schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections after PHAST intervention. The increase in respondents' knowledge on almost all aspects of the said infections was translated into actions to control schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections. This has not been achieved by chance, but due to well-designed and locally-adapted PHAST intervention. We conclude that despite criticisms, PHAST approach is still useful in empowering communities to control water, sanitation, and hygiene related infectious diseases such as schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections.


Subject(s)
Communicable Disease Control/methods , Endemic Diseases/prevention & control , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminthiasis/prevention & control , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/epidemiology , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/prevention & control , Schistosomiasis/epidemiology , Schistosomiasis/prevention & control , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Disease Transmission, Infectious/prevention & control , Female , Helminthiasis/psychology , Humans , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic/psychology , Islands , Lakes , Male , Middle Aged , Schistosomiasis/psychology , Surveys and Questionnaires , Tanzania/epidemiology , Young Adult
13.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(5): 571-4, 2015 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26537036

ABSTRACT

In order to determine the status of malaria among schoolchildren on Kome Island (Lake Victoria), near Mwanza, Tanzania, a total of 244 schoolchildren in 10 primary schools were subjected to a blood survey using the fingerprick method. The subjected schoolchildren were 123 boys and 121 girls who were 6-8 years of age. Only 1 blood smear was prepared for each child. The overall prevalence of malaria was 38.1% (93 positives), and sex difference was not remarkable. However, the positive rate was the highest in Izindabo Primary School (51.4%) followed by Isenyi Primary School (48.3%) and Bugoro Primary School (46.7%). The lowest prevalence was found in Muungano Primary School (16.7%) and Nyamiswi Primary School (16.7%). These differences were highly correlated with the location of the school on the Island; those located in the peripheral area revealed higher prevalences while those located in the central area showed lower prevalences. Plasmodium falciparum was the predominant species (38.1%; 93/244), with a small proportion of them mixed-infected with Plasmodium vivax (1.6%; 4/244). The results revealed that malaria is highly prevalent among primary schoolchildren on Kome Island, Tanzania, and there is an urgent need to control malaria in this area.


Subject(s)
Malaria/epidemiology , Plasmodium falciparum/isolation & purification , Plasmodium vivax/isolation & purification , Blood/parasitology , Child , Coinfection/epidemiology , Coinfection/parasitology , Cross-Sectional Studies , Female , Humans , Malaria/parasitology , Male , Microscopy , Prevalence , Tanzania/epidemiology , Topography, Medical
14.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(4): 439-45, 2015 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26323842

ABSTRACT

A survey of intestinal helminths was undertaken in riparian people in Xieng Khouang Province, Lao PDR. Fecal specimens were collected from 643 people (289 males and 354 females) residing in 4 districts (Nonghet, Kham, Phoukout, and Pek) and were examined by the Kato-Katz technique. The overall helminth egg positive rate was 41.2%, and hookworms revealed the highest prevalence (32.7%) followed by Trichuris trichiura (7.3%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (5.6%). The positive rate for small trematode eggs (STE), which may include Opisthorchis viverrini, heterophyids, and lecithodendriids, was 4.4%. For recovery of adult helminths, 12 STE or nematode/cestode egg-positive people were treated with 40 mg/kg praziquantel and 15 mg/kg pyrantel pamoate, and then purged. Mixed infections with 2 Haplorchis species (H. pumilio and H. taichui), Centrocestus formosanus, Opisthorchis viverrini, a species of cestode (Taenia saginata), and several species of nematodes including hookworms and Enterobius vermicularis were detected. The worm load for trematodes was the highest for H. pumilio with an average of 283.5 specimens per infected person followed by C. formosanus, H. taichui, and O. viverrini. The worm load for nematodes was the highest for hookworms (21.5/infected case) followed by E. vermicularis (3.2/infected case). The results revealed that the surveyed areas of Xieng Khouang Province, Lao PDR are endemic areas of various species of intestinal helminths. The STE found in the surveyed population were verified to be those of heterophyids, particularly H. pumilio.


Subject(s)
Helminthiasis/parasitology , Helminths/isolation & purification , Intestines/parasitology , Platyhelminths/isolation & purification , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Cestode Infections/epidemiology , Cestode Infections/parasitology , Female , Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminths/classification , Helminths/genetics , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Platyhelminths/classification , Platyhelminths/genetics , Young Adult
15.
Korean J Parasitol ; 53(4): 447-53, 2015 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26323843

ABSTRACT

The infection status of fishborne zoonotic trematode (FZT) metacercariae was investigated in fishes from 2 localities of Lao PDR. Total 157 freshwater fishes (17 species) were collected in local markets of Vientiane Municipality and Champasak Province in December 2010 and July 2011, and each fish was examined by the artificial digestion method. Total 6 species of FZT metacercariae, i.e., Opisthorchis viverrini, Haplorchis taichui, Haplorchis yokogawai, Haplorchis pumilio, Centrocestus formosanus, and Procerovum varium, were detected in fishes from Vientiane Municipality. The metacercariae of O. viverrini were detected in 50 (49.5%) out of 101 fishes (6 species), and their average number was 154 per fish infected. The remaining 5 species of heterophyid metacercariae were detected in 36.8%, 65.8%, 9.4%, 23.9%, and 5.1% fishes examined, and their average densities were 12, 1,038, 4, 15, and 13 per infected fish, respectively. In fishes from Champasak Province, 3 species of FZT metacercariae, i.e., O. viverrini, H. taichui, and H. yokogawai, were detected. Only 2 O. viverrini metacercariae were found in only 1 Barbonymus schwanefeldi. The metacercariae of H. taichui and H. yokogawai were detected in 60.0% and 50.0% of fishes examined, and their average densities were 47 and 28 per fish infected. By the present study, it has been confirmed that several species of FZT metacercariae are prevalent in fishes from Vientiane Municipality, with P. varium being a new member of FZT in Lao PDR. In comparison, FZT metacercariae are less prevalent in fishes from Champasak Province.


Subject(s)
Fish Diseases/parasitology , Metacercariae/isolation & purification , Trematoda/isolation & purification , Trematode Infections/veterinary , Animals , Female , Fish Diseases/epidemiology , Laos , Male , Metacercariae/classification , Metacercariae/genetics , Metacercariae/growth & development , Trematoda/classification , Trematoda/genetics , Trematoda/growth & development , Trematode Infections/epidemiology , Trematode Infections/parasitology , Vietnam , Zoonoses/parasitology
16.
Am J Trop Med Hyg ; 91(2): 384-8, 2014 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24980495

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this report is to compare the prevalence of Opisthorchis viverrini/minute intestinal fluke (Ov/MIF) in Lao People's Democratic Republic according to different regions and evaluate the effect of ingestion of raw freshwater fish on the infection. Demographic data, behavioral data, and symptoms were obtained, and the Kato-Katz method was used for the diagnosis of Ov/MIF. In total, 3,046 individuals were enrolled. The risk factors associated with acquisition of Ov/MIF were raw fish consumption and province. Khong Island showed the highest prevalence (odds ratio = 80.1, 95% confidence interval = 47.9-133.9, P < 0.001) compared with other districts, and raw fish consumption was related to Ov/MIF infection. Administration of praziquantel to entire populations, education (avoiding consumption of raw food dishes and improved hygiene), and access to clean water and sanitation should be considered.


Subject(s)
Feeding Behavior , Fishes/parasitology , Opisthorchiasis/epidemiology , Opisthorchis/isolation & purification , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Cooking , Educational Status , Feces/parasitology , Female , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Opisthorchiasis/diagnosis , Opisthorchiasis/parasitology , Prevalence , Risk Factors , Sanitation
17.
Acta Trop ; 136: 74-80, 2014 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24754919

ABSTRACT

This study confirmed the prevalence of the intestinal fluke Haplorchis taichui (Trematoda: Heterophyidae) among people and fish in Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR. Fecal specimens were collected from 559 riparian people (229 males and 330 females), residing in 4 Districts (Luang Prabang, Xieng Ngeun, Pak Ou, and Nam Bak) and were examined by the Kato-Katz fecal smear technique. The overall helminth egg positive rate was 64.9%. The positive rate for small trematode eggs (STE), which may include H. taichui and other heterophyids, Opisthorchis viverrini, and lecithodendriids, was 15.2%. For recovery of adult helminths, 10 STE-positive people were treated with 40mg/kg praziquantel and 15mg/kg pyrantel pamoate, and then purged. Mixed infections with 3 Haplorchis species (H. taichui, H. pumilio, and H. yokogawai), a species of cestode (Taenia saginata), and several species of nematodes including Enterobius vermicularis and hookworms were found. The worm load for trematodes was exclusively high for H. taichui with an average of 7691 specimens per infected person, followed by H. yokogawai (8.3 specimens) and H. pumilio (4.1 specimens). Out of 207 freshwater fish (17 species) purchased in a market in Luang Prabang District, 138 (67%) harboured H. taichui metacercariae (metacercarial burden per fish; 520). Lower prevalence of fish and lower metacercarial density were observed for H. yokogawai (52% and 50 per fish, respectively) and H. pumilio (18% and 3 per fish, respectively). STE found in the surveyed population of Luang Prabang Province were verified to be those of intestinal fukes, particularly H. taichui.


Subject(s)
Fish Diseases/parasitology , Trematoda/isolation & purification , Trematode Infections/veterinary , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Feces/parasitology , Female , Fish Diseases/epidemiology , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Morpholines , Parasite Egg Count , Trematoda/classification , Trematode Infections/epidemiology , Trematode Infections/parasitology , Young Adult
18.
Korean J Parasitol ; 52(1): 51-6, 2014 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24623882

ABSTRACT

The prevalence of helminthic infections was surveyed on a total of 6,178 residents (males 2,549 and females 3,629) in 102 villages of 9 provinces in Lao PDR between 2007 and 2011 under the project of Korea-Laos Collaborative Project for Control of Foodborne Trematode Infections in Lao PDR. Fecal specimens were collected and examined by the Kato-Katz thick smear and Stoll's egg counting techniques. The overall liver/intestinal helminth egg positive rate was 71.9% with a single or mixed infections with Opisthorchis viverrini and minute intestinal flukes (Ov/MIF), Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworms, Trichuris trichiura, Trichostrongylus sp., echinostomes, Taenia spp., and others. Ov/MIF revealed the highest prevalence (55.6%) followed by hookworms (27.8%) and T. trichiura (6.5%). The endemic regions with the highest prevalence of Ov/MIF were Savannakhet, Khammouane, Vientiane (Nam Ngum), Champasak (Khong Island), and Saravane Province. High prevalences of A. lumbricoides (33.8%), hookworms (47.8%), and T. trichiura (32.6%) were observed in Phongsaly, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane (Nam Ngum) areas, respectively. The results of this study highlight helminth parasites of current public health significance in different areas of Lao PDR.


Subject(s)
Helminthiasis/epidemiology , Helminthiasis/parasitology , Helminths/isolation & purification , Intestinal Diseases/epidemiology , Intestinal Diseases/parasitology , Animals , Feces/parasitology , Female , Helminths/classification , Humans , Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Parasite Egg Count , Prevalence
19.
Korean J Parasitol ; 51(5): 599-602, 2013 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24327790

ABSTRACT

A male patient with neurocysticercosis was identified in Montai Village, Xay District, Oudomxay Province, Lao PDR in February 2004. He had a history of diagnosis for neurocysticercosis by a CT scan in Thailand after an onset of epileptic seizure in 1993. A pig in the same district was found to contain Taenia solium metacestodes (=cysticerci); the slaughtered pig body contained more than 2,000 cysticerci. In addition to morphological identification, molecular identification was also performed on the cysticerci by DNA sequencing analysis of the mitochondrial cox1 gene; they were confirmed as T. solium metacestodes. The patient is regarded as an indigenous case of neurocysticercosis infected in an endemic focus of T. solium taeniasis/cysticercosis in Oudomxay Province, Lao PDR.


Subject(s)
Neurocysticercosis/epidemiology , Swine Diseases/epidemiology , Taenia solium/isolation & purification , Animals , Cysticercus , Electron Transport Complex IV/genetics , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Mitochondria/genetics , Neurocysticercosis/diagnostic imaging , Neurocysticercosis/parasitology , Radiography , Risk Factors , Sequence Analysis, DNA , Swine , Swine Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Swine Diseases/parasitology , Taenia solium/classification , Taenia solium/genetics
20.
Korean J Parasitol ; 51(3): 305-11, 2013 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23864741

ABSTRACT

In this study, we found that Haplorchis taichui, a heterophyid intestinal fluke, is highly prevalent, with heavy worm loads, among riparian people in Saravane and Champasak province, Lao PDR. Fecal specimens were collected from 1,460 people (717 men and 743 women) in 12 riparian (Mekong river) districts and were examined by the Kato-Katz fecal smear technique. The overall helminth egg positive rate was 78.8% and 66.4% in Saravane and Champasak province, respectively. The positive rate for small trematode eggs (STE), which included H. taichui and other heterophyids, Opisthorchis viverrini, and lecithodendriids, was 69.9% and 46.3% in Saravane and Champasak province, respectively. To obtain adult flukes, 30 STE-positive people were treated with 40 mg/kg praziquantel and then purged. Whole diarrheic stools were collected 4-5 times for each person and searched for fluke specimens using a stereomicroscope. Mixed infections with various species of trematodes (H. taichui, Haplorchis pumilio, O. viverrini, Prosthodendrium molenkampi, Centrocestus formosanus, and Echinochasmus japonicus) and a species of cestode (Taenia saginata) were found. However, the worm load was exceptionally high for H. taichui compared with other trematode species, with an average of 21,565 and 12,079 specimens per infected person in Saravane and Champasak province, respectively, followed by H. pumilio (41.9 and 22.5, respectively) and O. viverrini (9.4 and 1.5, respectively). These results show that diverse species of intestinal and liver flukes are prevalent among riparian people in Saravane and Champasak province, Lao PDR, with H. taichui being the exceptionally dominant species.


Subject(s)
Endemic Diseases/statistics & numerical data , Trematoda , Trematode Infections/parasitology , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Animals , Child , Demography , Feces/parasitology , Female , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Male , Middle Aged , Parasite Egg Count , Rivers , Young Adult
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