Risk factors contributing to fascioliasis endemicity in a focus in Dakahlia Governorate 1-human host.

ABSTRACT

Zoonotic fascioliasis is a problem not only in Dakahlia Governorate, but also in other Egyptian Governorates. Two hundreds & twenty patients randomly selected with suggesting manifestations were examined for fascioliasis. A total of 23 (10.4%) were positive by Kato thick smears, of which 21 were from Kafr El-Hessah and two from Oweish El-Hager. The proven human fascioliasis was examined for anti-Fasciola antibodies by IHAT & ELISA (Fhes), haemoglobin level, eosinophils percent, serum bilirubin & liver function tests. IHAT gave 82.61% positive results (19/23), and ELISA gave 100% positive results (23/23). The clinical signs ranged between splenomegaly & ascitis in 4.34% for each up to hepatomegaly in 73.91% & mild fever in 78.26% but 2 cases were asymptomatic. Mild eosinophilia and moderate anaemia were recorded with means of 11 +/- 5.8 and 10 +/- 1.3 respectively. Mean serum bilirubin was not elevated (0.91 +/- 0.51 gm/dl). Liver function tests (AST within normal range in all cases; <40 unit/ml but one patient had ALT above normal; >45 unit/ml).