Schistosomiasis mansoni in families of fishing workers of endemic area of Alagoas / Esquistosomiasis mansónica en familias de trabajadores de la pesca de área endémica de Alagoas / Esquistossomose mansônica em famílias de trabalhadores da pesca de área endêmica de Alagoas

Abstract Objective: To analyze the epidemiological and clinical aspects involved in the transmission and manifestation of schistosomiasis in a community of fishermen from the endemic area of Alagoas. Methods: Epidemiological, transversal, prospective, descriptive, quantitative study. The coproparasitological survey included 275 family units of fish workers and the epidemiological and clinical ones, those with a positive diagnosis for S. mansoni. Results: The prevalence of schistosomiasis was 13.9% (fishermen), 2.1% (shellfish) and 2.1% (family members). The occurrence of the infection varied according to gender, age, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Exposure occurred near the home. Autochthonous and predominant low parasite burden, intestinal clinical presentation, abdominal pain and diarrhea were observed. There were no nutritional and pressure changes associated with parasitosis. Adherence to drug therapy and use of the schistosomicidal drug was feared. Conclusion: Fish workers are at high risk for contracting the disease with clinical hepatointestinal manifestation, which requires more intense health actions.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar los aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos involucrados en la transmisión y manifestación de la esquistosomiasis en una comunidad de pescadores de área endémica de Alagoas. Métodos: Estudio epidemiológico, transversal, prospectivo, descriptivo, cuantitativo. La encuesta coproparasitológica contempló 275 unidades familiares de los trabajadores de la pesca y el epidemiológico y clínico, aquellos con diagnóstico positivo para S. mansoni. Resultados: La prevalencia de la esquistosomiasis fue 13,9% (pescadores), 2,1% (marisqueras) y 2,1% (familiares). La ocurrencia de la infección varió según el género, edad, etnia y condición socioeconómica. La exposición ocurrió cerca del domicilio. Se observó autoctonía y predominio de carga parasitaria baja, presentación clínica intestinal, dolor abdominal y diarrea. No hubo alteraciones nutricionales y presión arterial asociadas a la parasitosis. Existia el temor de la adhesión a la terapia medicamentosa y al uso de la droga esquistomicida. Conclusión: Los trabajadores de la pesca presentan alto riesgo para contraer la enfermedad con manifestación clínica hepatointestinal, lo que requiere acciones de salud más intensas.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar os aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos envolvidos na transmissão e manifestação da esquistossomose em uma comunidade de pescadores de área endêmica de Alagoas. Métodos: Estudo epidemiológico, transversal, prospectivo, descritivo, quantitativo. O inquérito coproparasitólogico contemplou 275 unidades familiares de trabalhadores da pesca e o epidemiológico e clínico, àqueles com diagnóstico positivo para S. mansoni. Resultados: A prevalência da esquistossomose foi 13,9% (pescadores), 2,1% (marisqueiras) e 2,1% (familiares). A ocorrência da infecção variou conforme gênero, idade, etnia e condição socioeconômica. A exposição ocorreu próxima ao domicílio. Observou-se autoctonia e predominância de carga parasitária baixa, apresentação clínica intestinal, dor abdominal e diarreia. Não ocorreram alterações nutricionais e pressóricas associadas à parasitose. Houve receio na adesão à terapêutica medicamentosa e ao uso do fármaco esquistossomicida. Conclusão: Os trabalhadores da pesca apresentam alto risco para contrair a doença com manifestação clínica hepatointestinal, o que requer ações de saúde mais fortalecidas.

Chronic Cystoisospora belli infection in an HIV/AIDS patient treated at the specialized assistance service in Porto Velho County - Rondônia

Abstract Cystoisospora belli infection manifests as diarrhea, and can potentially progress to malabsorption in HIV patients. Here, we report a case of C. belli infection in an HIV/AIDS patient with chronic diarrhea symptoms for at least 2 years. Coproscopic analyses based on direct technique and modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique without a commercial kit were performed. The current case report highlights the protocol to be adopted in coproscopic analyses applied to HIV patients. The importance of including the appropriate parasitological testing of patients with chronic intestinal isosporiasis in parasitological test routines must be considered.

Cross-sectional epidemiological investigations of Giardia lamblia in children in Pakistan

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The prevalence of Giardia lamblia in Pakistani children is currently unknown. The aim here was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of Giardia lamblia in children exhibiting diarrhea. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at different district healthcare hospitals in Pakistan. METHODS: A total of 800 samples were collected from children aged 0-10 years. Information regarding personal data, demographic data and supposed risk factors was collected through a structured questionnaire. Giardia lamblia was detected through direct microscopy and antigens through the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: The prevalence of Giardia lamblia was 2.75% through direct microscopy and inflated to 9.5% through ELISA. The demographic factors positively associated with occurrences of giardiasis were age (P = 0.035; odds ratio, OR = 1.96; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.094-3.533), mother's educational level (P = 0.031; OR = 2.67; 95% CI = 1.186-6.045) and father's educational level (P = 0.004; OR = 3.56; 95% CI = 1.612-7.899). Similarly, among the supposed risk factors, rural residency (P = 0.032; OR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.098- 2.851), absence of proper sewerage system (P = 0.000; OR = 6.60; 95% CI = 4.029-10.841) and unavailability of safe drinking water (P = 0.000; OR = 4.08; 95% CI = 2.207-7.547) were the factors strongly connected with giardiasis. Abdominal discomfort was a prominent clinical sign with 46% frequency. CONCLUSION: Various risk factors were associated with occurrences of Giardia, thus emphasizing the importance of parents' education, safe drinking water and proper sewerage systems for Pakistani children's health.

Enteropathogensddetected in a daycare center, sutheastern Brazil: bacteria, viirus, and parasite research / Enteropatógenos detectados em crianças de creche no Sudeste do Brasil: pesquisa de bactérias, vírus e parasitos

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and etiological profile of enteropathogens in children from a daycare center. Methods: From October 2010 to February 2011 stool samples from 100 children enrolled in a government daycare center in the municipality of São José do Rio Preto, in the state of São Paulo, were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 246 bacteria were isolated in 99% of the fecal samples; 129 were in the diarrheal group and 117 in the non-diarrheal group. Seventy-three strains of Escherichia coli were isolated, 19 of Enterobacter, one of Alcaligenes and one of Proteus. There were 14 cases of mixed colonization with Enterobacter and E. coli. Norovirus and Astrovirus were detected in children with clinical signs suggestive of diarrhea. These viruses were detected exclusively among children residing in urban areas. All fecal samples were negative for the presence of the rotavirus species A and C. The presence of Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana and hookworm was observed. A significant association was found between food consumption outside home and daycare center and the presence of intestinal parasites. Conclusions: For children of this daycare center, intestinal infection due to pathogens does not seem to have contributed to the occurrence of diarrhea or other intestinal symptoms. The observed differences may be due to the wide diversity of geographical, social and economic characteristics and the climate of Brazil, all of which have been reported as critical factors in the modulation of the frequency of different enteropathogens.

Introdução: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a prevalência e o perfil etiológico de enteropatógenos em crianças de uma creche. Métodos: No período de outubro de 2010 a fevereiro de 2011 foram coletadas e analisadas amostras de fezes de 100 crianças matriculadas em creche do governo no município de São José do Rio Preto, Estado de São Paulo. Resultados: Um total de 246 bactérias foram isoladas em 99% das amostras de fezes; 129 eram diarreicas e 117 não-diarreicas. Foram isoladas setenta e três cepas de Escherichia coli, 19 de Enterobacter, uma de Alcaligenes e uma de Proteus. Foram detectados 14 casos de colonização mista com Enterobacter e de E. coli. Norovírus e Astrovirus foram detectados em crianças com sinais clínicos sugestivos de diarréia. Estes vírus foram detectados exclusivamente entre as crianças residentes em áreas urbanas. Todas as amostras fecais foram negativas para a presença das espécies de rotavírus A e C. Foi observada a presença de Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana e ancilostomídeos. Foi encontrada associação significativa entre o consumo de alimentos fora do centro da casa e creche e a presença de parasitos intestinais. Conclusões: Para as crianças desta creche, a infecção intestinal por patógenos não parece ter contribuido para a ocorrência de diarreia ou outros sintomas intestinais. As diferenças observadas podem ser atribuídas à grande diversidade de características geográficas, sociais e econômicas e o clima do Brasil, as quais tem sido relatadas como fatores críticos para a modulação da frequência de diferentes enteropatógenos.

Diarrea recurrente por Cystoisopora belli en pacientes con infección por VIH con TARGA / Recurrent diarrhea due to Cystoisopora belli in HIV/AIDS patients receiving HAART

La Cystoisospora belli, antes denominada Isospora belli, es el agente etiológico de la cystoisosporiasis, una infección oportunista que afecta a pacientes inmunodeprimidos, caracterizada por diarrea crónica y pérdida ponderal. La incidencia de diarrea crónica por este agente, en pacientes infectados por el VIH, ha disminuido considerablemente. Ello gracias al advenimiento de la terapia antirretroviral de gran actividad (TARGA), con la que se ha logrado mejorar la respuesta inmunológica del paciente y disminuir su carga viral. Se presentan seis casos de cystoisosporiasis recurrente y refractaria en pacientes con infección por VIH, en quienes se diagnosticó cystoisosporiasis pese a que previamente se encontraban recibiendo profilaxis con trimetropin/sulfametoxazol (TMP/SMX). Cinco de ellos evolucionaron de manera tórpida y fallecieron, a pesar de una buena respuesta al TARGA (adecuado incremento de CD4 y disminución de la carga viral hasta rangos indetectables), y de tratamiento con TMP/SMX por vía oral y otros medicamentos de segunda línea.

The Cystoisospora belli, before denominated as Isospora belli, is the etiologic agent of cystoisosoporiasis, an opportunistic infection affecting immunocompromised patients, characterized by chronic diarrhea and weight loss. The incidence of chronic diarrhea for this agent, in HIV patients, has decreased considerably. This thanks to the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), which has improved the patient’s immune response and decrease viral load. We present six cases of cystoisosoporiasis recurrent and refractory to treatment in HIV patients, who was being treated with with trimethoprim / sulfamethoxazole (TMP / SMX) orally as a prophylaxis. Five of these patients passed away due to the infection, despite of the fact that they had a good response to HAART (adequate increase in CD4 and viral load undetectable) and they had been treated with second line drugs.

Fatores ambientais associados à presença do Cryptosporidium spp. em animais domésticos de companhia numa população de idosos do Município de Teresopólis, RJ: estudo de caso / Environmental factors associated with the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. company in domestic animals in a population of elderly Teresópolis, RJ - case study

A criptosporidiose é uma importante zoonose responsável por manifestações clínicas de diarréias e gastrenterites, associado à dor abdominal, em seres humanos e animais domésticos causada por protozoários oportunistas do gênero Cryptosporidium. Trata-se de um patógeno de veiculação hídrica estando disponível para infecção oral-fecal a partir de diferentes formas ambientais, incluindo a ingestão de alimentos contaminados e água não tratada. É transmitida entre indivíduos por meio de oocistos que já são eliminados na forma infectante, sendo as principais vias de transmissão o contato direto (pessoa-a-pessoa), oral/fecal apresentando repercussão mundial a partir do surgimento da Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida a qual desencadeou surtos diarréicos com óbitos em pacientes soropositivos. Estudos destacam o papel dos animais de estimação, em especial cães e gatos, aportando significantes benefícios para as pessoas e para a sociedade, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento físico, social e emocional das crianças e com o bem-estar de seus proprietários, em particular de idosos. No entanto, animais de companhia podem constituir importante fonte de infecção para o homem, determinando doenças genericamente denominadas zoonoses, como a criptosporidiose. Caso agravante quanto a essa infecção dá-se pelo fato que grande parte dos animais infectados serem portadores assintomáticos. Das pesquisas que tomam o idoso como objeto de interesse, há ainda, temáticas voltadas para a identificação dos fatores de risco dessa população a fim de contribuir na elaboração de condutas preventivas. A capacidade funcional, por exemplo, tem se mostrado um forte indicador de autonomia e qualidade de vida dos idosos...

Cryptosporidiosis is an important zoonosis responsible for clinical signs of diarrhea and gastroenteritis, associated with abdominal pain in humans and domestic animals caused by protozoa of the genus Cryptosporidium opportunistic. It is a waterborne pathogen and is available for fecal-oral infection from different environmental forms, including ingestion of contaminated food and untreated water. It is transmitted between individuals through oocysts that are already eliminated in the infectious form, the main transmission routes direct contact (person to person), oral / fecal featuring worldwide repercussions from the emergence of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome which triggered outbreaks of diarrhea with deaths in seropositive patients. Studies highlight the role of pets, especially dogs and cats, bringing significant benefits to individuals and to society, contributing to the physical, social and emotional development of children and the welfare of its owners, particularly elderly. However, pets can be an important source of infection for humans, causing diseases generically known as zoonoses, such as cryptosporidiosis. If aggravating about this infection takes place by the fact that most of the infected animals are asymptomatic carriers. From the research that takes the elderly as an object of interest, there are still issues aimed at identifying risk factors for this population to help in drawing up preventive measures. Functional capacity, for example, has shown a strong indicator of autonomy and quality of life for seniors...

Enteropatógenos relacionados à diarréia em pacientes HIV que fazem uso de terapia anti-retroviral / Enteropathogens relating to diarrhea in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy

A etiologia do processo diarréico na AIDS pode ser causada por vírus, bactérias, fungos, protozoários e helmintos, assim como pelo próprio HIV. Este trabalho avaliou enteropatogenos relacionados à diarréia em pacientes HIV que fazem uso de terapia anti-retroviral. Os métodos parasitológicos utilizados foram Faust, Hoffmann e Kinyoun. O isolamento e cultura dos fungos foram realizados conforme metodologia recomendada por NCCLS M27-A standard. A identificação das espécies de leveduras foi realizada através da reação em cadeia da polimerase. O isolamento de bactérias, foi feito em agar Mac Conkey e agar SS, a identificação das espécies através do Enterokit B (Probac do Brasil) e métodos bioquímicos. Foram avaliados 49 pacientes, 44,9 por cento apresentaram enteroparasitas, 48,1 por cento Candida sp com 61,5 por cento Candida albicans, 7,6 por cento Candida sp e 30,7 por cento Candida não- albicans. Foram isoladas bactérias de 72 por cento dos pacientes, 49 por cento Escherichia coli, 13 por cento Salmonella parathyphi, Klebsiella sp ou Proteus e 6 por cento Citrobacter freundii ou Yersinia sp. Houve alta prevalência de Candida sp nos pacientes HIV com diarréia e foram isoladas espécies não albicans cuja presença pode ser entendida como cúmplice ou causa da infecção.

The etiology of the diarrheic process in AIDS may be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa or helminths, as well as HIV itself. This study evaluated enteropathogens relating to diarrhea in HIV patients who were on antiretroviral therapy. The parasitological methods used were Faust, Hoffmann and Kinyoun. Isolation and culturing of fungi were carried out in accordance with the methodology recommended by the NCCLS M27-A standard. The yeast species were identified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Bacteria were isolated on MacConkey and SS agar and the species were identified using Enterokit B (Probac do Brasil) and biochemical methods. Forty-nine patients were evaluated: 44.89 percent presented enteroparasites and 48.1 percent presented Candida sp, of which 61.5 percent were Candida albicans, 7.6 percent were Candida sp and 30.7 percent were Candida non-albicans. Bacteria were isolated from 72 percent of the patients, of which 49 percent were Escherichia coli, 13 percent Salmonella parathyphi, Klebsiella sp or Proteus and 6 percent Citrobacter freundii or Yersinia sp. There was high prevalence of Candida sp in HIV patients with diarrhea and non-albicans species were isolated. Their presence could be taken to mean that they were accomplices in or causes of the infection.

Blastocystis subtypes in irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease in Ankara, Turkey

Blastocystis infection has been reported to be associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and chronic diarrhoea. The availability of data on the subtypes of Blastocystis found in these patient groups would be of interest in understanding the significance of Blastocystis infection in chronic illness. In this study, we identify Blastocystis subtypes found in patients presenting with IBS, IBD, chronic diarrhoea and asymptomatic patients in Ankara, Turkey. Blastocystis was detected in 11 symptomatic patients by microscopy and 19 by stool culture. Stool culture was more sensitive than microscopy in identifying Blastocystis. Using standard nomenclature adopted in 2007, Blastocystis sp. subtype 3 was the most common in all groups, followed by Blastocystis sp. subtype 2. Identical subtypes of Blastocystis are found in patients with IBS, IBD and chronic diarrhoea. These particular subtypes show low host specificity and are carried by humans and some farm animals. The subtypes of Blastocystis that are commonly found in rodents and certain wild birds were not found in these patients. We suggest a model in which the severity of enteric protozoan infection may be mediated by host factors.

Presença de Cryptosporidium spp em crianças com diarréia aguda em uma creche pública de Recife, Estado de Pernambuco / Presence of Cryptosporidium spp in children with acute diarrhea in a public daycare center in Recife, State of Pernambuco

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar a freqüência de oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp em amostras fecais de crianças, de 1 a 14 anos, de uma creche pública localizada em uma comunidade carente da cidade do Recife, Pernambuco. A pesquisa foi realizada no período de 28 de junho de 2006 a 3 de abril de 2007, e envolveu 182 crianças. Das amostras analisadas 59 (32,4 por cento) foram positivas quanto à presença de oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp, e a faixa etária mais acometida foi a de 3 a 5 anos de idade (54,2 por cento). A alta freqüência de amostras positivas para Cryptosporidium spp obtidas neste estudo comprovam que creches são ambientes propícios a essa ocorrência devido ao contato direto entre criança-criança, crianças e funcionários. A maior via de infecção por Cryptosporidium spp é a transmissão interpessoal, que é bem ilustrada em creches. A imaturidade, deficiências do sistema imune e hábitos higiênicos inadequados são fatores que também contribuem para esse tipo de infecção.

The objective of the present study was to analyze the frequency of oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp in fecal samples from children aged one to fourteen years at a public daycare center located in a needy community in the city of Recife, Pernambuco. The investigation was carried out between June 28, 2006, and April 3, 2007, and involved 182 children. Among the samples analyzed, 59 (32.4 percent) were positive regarding the presence of oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp, and the age group most affected was between three and five years (54.2 percent). The high frequency of samples positive for Cryptosporidium spp obtained in this study confirms that daycare centers are an environment that favors such occurrences, because of the direct contact between children or between children and staff. The most important infection route for Cryptosporidium spp is person-to-person transmission, which is well illustrated in daycare centers. Immaturity, deficiencies of the immune system and inadequate hygiene habits are factors that also contribute towards this type of infection.

Influencia de las parasitosis intestinales y otros antecedentes infecciosos sobre el estado nutricional antropométrico de ni±os en situación de pobreza / Intestinal parasitic infestation and others infectious backgrounds influence in the antropometric nutritional status of children in poverty

Las parasitosis afectan principalmente a la población infantil de bajos recursos económicos. A fin de establecer estas asociaciones se evaluaron los antecedentes patológicos previos al estudio (diarrea, infección respiratoria superior e inferior y sarampión) en 257 niños y niñas aparentemente sanos entre 2-18 años de edad, del Sur de Valencia, Edo. Carabobo. 250 muestras de heces fueron sometidas a examen al fresco y Kato. Se determinó el estado nutricional antropométrico utilizando combinación de indicadores (dimensión corporal, composición corporal) e indicadores mixtos y por el método de Graffar-Méndez Castellano se identificó la condición socioeconómica. El análisis estadístico comprendió distribución de frecuencias y Chi2 como medida de asociación; nivel de significancia de p < 0,05. Se encontró 49,6 por ciento de niños parasitados, predominio de estratos socioeconómicos IV y V y de monoparasitismo por protozoarios. El antecedente patológico más prevalente fue infección respiratoria superior. Existió una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre antecedente de diarrea y presencia de parásitos, mas específicamente entre antecedente de diarrea aguda e infestación por Giardia lamblia y Trichuris trichiura. La asociación significativa encontrada entre desnutrición, parasitosis y antecedentes de diarrea, no pudo ser demostrada cuando se discriminó por tipo de parásito y grado de desnutrición. Se evidenció un efecto deletéreo de las parasitosis sobre el estado nutricional. Los antecedentes de diarrea pueden orientar hacia el diagnóstico de parasitosis, causa importante de morbilidad infantil en comunidades en situación de pobreza.

Parasitic infestations affect mainly infantile population of low economic resources. In order to assess this evidence, pathological antecedents of diarrhea, superior and inferior respiratory infection and measles were evaluated in 257 apparently healthy children (boys and girls) aged 2-18 from the South of Valencia city, Edo. Carabobo 250 feces samples were examinationed by fresh and Kato method. The Anthropometric nutritional status was determined by combination of indicators (corporal dimension, corporal composition) and mixed indicators. Sociodemogrßfic evaluation was performed by method of Graffar-Méndez. Frecuency distribution and Chi² association was measure, with a significance value of p < 0,05. It was found 49.6 percent of parasitic infestation with predominance of socioeconomic strata IV and V Monoparasitism and protozoa infestation were highly prevalent. Superior respiratory infection was the most frequent antecedent. A statistically significant association between diarrhea antecedents and parasite infestation, therewas more specifically between antecedent of acute diarrhea and infestación by Giardia lamblia or Trichuris trichiura. A statistically significant association was found among undernourishment, parasitism and antecedent of diarrhea, but it could not be demonstrated when discrimination by type of parasite and degree of undernourishment. Deleterious effect of parasitic infestation on the nutritional status; was found diarrhea antecedents can lead to the diagnosis, important cause of infantile morbidity in communities in poverty situation.

Environmental risk factors for Cryptosporidium infection in an island from Western Venezuela

Few investigations have been conducted on risk factors for Cryptosporidium infection in communities from developing countries. A study was conducted to determine the prevalence and risk factors for cryptosporidiosis in San Carlos island, Venezuela. A sample of 515 subjects (mean age ± SD: 21.4 ± 17.8 years) was surveyed. Single fecal specimens were collected and modified Ziehl-Neelsen carbolfuchsin staining of formalin-ether concentrate stools were examined for identification of the parasite. Infections with Cryptosporidium (67 of 515, 13 percent) were common. Prevalence of the parasite varied among sectors of the community; 34 of 67(50.7 percent) cases of cryptosporidiosis clustered in two sectors with extreme poverty. Variables strongly associated with a higher risk for the infection (p < 0.01) were residing in these sectors versus the remainder, living in a hut or small residence versus a brick or larger house, using an area of backyard rather than a toilet or latrine for defecation, and having contact with soil contaminated with human feces. Crowding was also a risk (p < 0.05). Contact with human feces contaminated-soil may be an important mode of transmission and poverty a predisposing factor for the infection.

Prevalence and associated risk factors for Giardia lamblia infection among children hospitalized for diarrhea in Goiânia, Goiás State, Brazil

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and to identify risk factors associated with Giardia lamblia infection in diarrheic children hospitalized for diarrhea in Goiânia, State of Goiás, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted and a comprehensive questionnaire was administered to the child's primary custodian. Fixed effects logistic regression was used to determine the association between infection status for G. lamblia and host, sociodemographic, environmental and zoonotic risk factors. A total of 445 fecal samples were collected and processed by the DFA methodology, and G. lamblia cysts were present in the feces of 44 diarrheic children (9.9 percent). A variety of factors were found to be associated with giardiasis in these population: age of children (OR, 1.18; 90 percent CI, 1.0 - 1.36; p = 0.052), number of children in the household (OR 1.45; 90 percent CI, 1.13 - 1.86; p = 0.015), number of cats in the household (OR, 1.26; 90 percent CI, 1.03 -1.53; p = 0.059), food hygiene (OR, 2.9; 90 percent CI, 1.34 - 6.43; p = 0.024), day-care centers attendance (OR, 2.3; 90 percent CI, 1.20 - 4.36; p = 0.034), living on a rural farm within the past six months prior hospitalization (OR, 5.4; CI 90 percent, 1.5 - 20.1; p = 0.03) and the number of household adults (OR, 0.59; 90 percent CI, 0.42 - 0.83; p = 0.012). Such factors appropriately managed may help to reduce the annual incidence of this protozoal infection in the studied population.

O objetivo desse estudo foi estimar a prevalência e identificar fatores de risco associados à infecção por Giardia lamblia em crianças hospitalizadas com diarréia no município de Goiânia, Estado de Goiás, Brasil. Foi realizado um estudo transversal e um questionário estruturado foi administrado ao responsável pela criança. Análise multivariada foi realizada por meio de regressão logística para se determinar a associação entre infecção por G. lamblia e as variáveis sociodemográficas, ambientais e zoonóticas relacionadas ao hospedeiro. Das 445 amostras de fezes coletadas e processadas pelo método de imunofluorescência direta (DFA), 44 (9,9 por cento) apresentaram cisto de G. lamblia. Uma variedade de fatores de risco foi encontrada associada à giardíase: idade da criança (OR, 1,18; 90 por cento CI, 1,0 - 1,36; p = 0,052), número de crianças na família (OR, 1,45; 90 por cento CI, 1,13 - 1,86; p = 0,015), número de gatos pertecentes à família (OR, 1,26; 90 por cento CI, 1,03 - 1,53; p = 0,059), higiene alimentar (OR, 2,9; 90 por cento CI, 1,34 - 6,43; p = 0,024), usuários de creches (OR, 2,3; 90 por cento CI, 1,20 - 4,36; p = 0,034), ter residido em área rural seis meses precedendo à hospitalização (OR, 5,4; 90 por cento CI, 1,5 - 20,1; p = 0,03) e número de adultos na família (OR, 0,59; 90 por cento CI, 0,42 - 0,83; p = 0,012). Tais fatores, devidamente controlados podem contribuir para redução anual da incidência desta parasitose na população estudada.

Agentes causantes de diarrea en niños menores de 5 años en Tunja, Colombia / Diarrhoea-causing agents in children aged less than five in Tunja, Colombia

Objetivos: Determinar la prevalencia y tipo de agentes infecciosos causantes de EDA en una muestra de niños menores de 5 años que consultaron a IPS de Tunja durante el año 2004. Materiales y Métodos Estudio de corte transversal, la información se recogió mediante aplicación de una encuesta a 129 niños menores de 5 años afectados de EDA. Adicionalmente se recogió una muestra de heces, en las consultas externas del Hospital San Rafael y Clínica Saludcoop de Tunja. Resultados Se encontró Rotavirus en 48,1 por ciento, Shigella 0,8 por ciento, E. coli 13,9 por ciento; Campylobacter 2,3 por ciento; Giardia lamblia 12,4 por ciento; E. histolytica 7 por ciento; en 15,5 por ciento de casos no se identificó agente causal. La asociación es creciente con la edad para Rotavirus (p<0,01), E.Coli (p<0,05) y Campylobacter (p<0,001). Conclusión Rotavirus es el mayor agente causal de EDA en menores de 1 año, y en general, en menores de 5 años. Las prevalencias encontradas coinciden con lo reportado en estudios realizados en Facatativá, Bogotá, Santander, Manizales y Chocó; también con estudios adelantados en Venezuela, Perú y México.

Objectives: Determining the prevalence and type of infectious ADD-causing agents in a sample of children aged less than five who consulted the IPS in Tunja during 2004. Material and Methods A cross-sectional study was designed. Data was obtained by surveying 129 children younger than 5 suffering from ADD. Samples of faeces were obtained following outpatient consultation at San Rafael Hospital and SaludCoopÆs clinic in Tunja. Results Rotavirus was found in 48,1 percent of cases, Shigella in 0,8 percent, E. coli in 13,9 percent, Campylobacter in 2,3 percent, Giardia lamblia in 12,4 percent and E. hitolytica in 7 percent. The causative agent could not be identified in 15,5 percent of cases. The statistical association grew with age for Rotavirus (p<0.01), E. coli (p<0.05) and campylobacter (p<0.001). Conclusion Rotavirus is the major causative agent of ADD in children younger than one year and, generally, in children aged less than five. The prevalence found was similar to data reported in studies carried out in Facatatativá, Bogotá, Santander, Manizales and the Chocó in Colombia and studies carried out in Venezuela, Peru and Mexico.

Cyclospora cayatanensis en pacientes con SIDA y diarrea crónica / Cyclospora cayetanensis in patients with AIDS and chronic diarrhea

Cyclospora spp. is a protozoan parasite responsible for significant gastrointestinal disease in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. We report the clinical features of two patients with chronic diarrhea and intestinal cyclosporosis caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis. The average value for CD4 count in these patients was lower than or equal to 100 cells/mm3. The oocysts were detected in smears from stool samples stained with modified acid-fast or safranin technique. Light microscopy revealed parasites in the enterocytes and these parasites were associated with villous atrophy. Cyclospora cayetanensis infection might be an important cause of diarrhea in patients with AIDS in Argentina.

Clinical and diagnostic aspects of intestinal microsporidiosis in HIV-infected patients with chronic diarrhea in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The objectives of this study were to determine both the prevalence of microsporidial intestinal infection and the clinical outcome of the disease in a cohort of 40 HIV-infected patients presenting with chronic diarrhea in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Each patient, after clinical evaluation, had stools and intestinal fragments examined for viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens. Microsporidia were found in 11 patients (27.5 percent) either in stools or in duodenal or ileal biopsies. Microsporidial spores were found more frequently in stools than in biopsy fragments. Samples examined using transmission electron microscopy (n=3) or polymerase chain reaction (n=6) confirmed Enterocytozoon bieneusi as the causative agent. Microsporidia were the only potential enteric pathogens found in 5 of the 11 patients. Other pathogens were also detected in the intestinal tract of 21 patients, but diarrhea remained unexplained in 8. We concluded that microsporidial infection is frequently found in HIV infected persons in Rio de Janeiro, and it seems to be a marker of advanced stage of AIDS

Microsporidiasis en pacientes con SIDA y diarrea crónica. Experiencia en el Instituto Nacional de la Nutrición "Salvador Zubirán" / Microsporidiasis in a patient with AIDS and chronic diarrhea. Experience in the Instituto Nacional de la Nutricion Salvador Zubiran

Antecedentes. Microsporidium sp. se ha considerado una causa poco frecuente de diarrea en pacientes con SIDA. Sin embargo, el uso de algunas tinciones histoquímicas en la evaluación de las biopsias de intestino delgado, ha evidenciado incremento en su prevalencia. En México no existe información sobre la prevalencia y las características anatomoclínicas de este patógeno. Diseño. Se revisaron 98 biopsias de intestino delgado teñidas con HE y Giemsa de pacientes con SIDA y diarrea crónica (enero 1987-diciembre 1994). La información clínica y de laboratorio se obtuvo de los expedientes clínicos. Resultados. En 50 pacientes se identificaron patógenos oportunistas en las biopsias de intestino delgado. Microsporidium sp. se identificó en 30 pacientes (prevalencia de 31 por ciento). En 24 de 30 se obtuvo información del expediente clínico. Todos los pacientes (17/24 hombres, 7/24 mujeres) se encontraba en estadio C3 de SIDA con edad promedio de 33 años. Los factores de riesgo para SIDA fueron homosexualidad en hombre y transfusiones en mujeres. Se identificó nivel socioeconómico bajo en 75 por ciento de los casos. La manifestación inicial de SIDA fue diarrea en 67 por ciento. La cuenta de CD4 fue < 200/mm3 en 13/24 y > 200/mm3 en 2/24. Los exámenes de heces y la interpretación inicial de la biopsia fue negativa para Microsporidium sp. En la revisión de las biopsias, se identificó inflamación linfoplasmocitaria con eosinófilos y atrofia intestinal en un alto porcentaje de casos. Las esporas se tiñeron de color rojo pálido. Conclusión. Microsporidium sp. fue frecuente en pacientes de nivel socioeconómico bajo, en estadio C3 de SIDA con cifras de CD4<200 mm3. La tinción de Giemsa es un método útil y barato para la identificación de esporas y merontes de Microsporidium sp

Esporos de microsporidios en heces de dos niños HIV seronegativos de Tucumán, Argentina / Microsporidian spores in the stool specimens of two HIV-negative children from Tucuman, Argentina

La incidencia mundial de microsporidiosis intestinal en pacientes infectados por HIV es relevante. En contraste, son muy pocos los casos de infección del parásito en pacientes HIV negativos. Aquí se informa que en diciembre de 1994 fueron detectadas infecciones microsporidianas intestinales en dos niños, hermanos, de 16 y 33 meses de edad, HIV-negativos, desnutridos, nativos y residentes en la provincia de Tucumán, Argentina. El diagnóstico se logró empleando microscopía óptica para la detección de esporos microsporidianos en frotis de especímenes fecales coloreados con una nueva modificación del método de Ziehl-Neelsen modificado. El reconocimiento de los esporos estuvo basado en sus características morfológicas y propiedades tintoriales, y en su comparación con frotis testigo positivo para Enterocytozoon bieneusi coloreados con el método de Weber. Ambos niños mostraron definidos signos de desnutrición y otras patologías asociadas, lo que sumado a la falta de colaboración de sus progenitores para un adecuado estudio clínico, hicieron dificultoso poner en claro el rol desempeñado por los parásitos en estos casos. No obstante, las infecciones microsporidianas de los dos niños tuvieron evolución autolimitada

Parasitosis en una poblacion adulta con trastornos gastrointestinales cronicos / Parasitosis in an adult population with chronic gastrointestinal disorders

Se trabajo con 185 pacientes mayores de 18 años, de ambos sexos y de clase media, que presentaron diarrea y/o transtornos gastrointestinales crónicos. El objetivo fue investigar los enterparásitos para estabelecer su relación con la sintomatología de los pacientes. La muestra de heces fue recogida en forma seriada en formol 10 por ciento y se procesó de la siguinte manera: microscopía directa, con y sin colorantes úmedos, concentración por el método de Ritchie, tinción de safranina 1 por ciento para investigación específica de Cryptosporidium sp. y tamizado fecal par búsqueda de macroparásitos. El 28.6 por ciento de los pacientes estudiados por lo menos un entero-parásito en sus heces; 48 estuvieron monoparasitados y 5 biparasotados. Los parásitos hallados y sus porcentajes en la población total estudiada fueron: Blastocystis hominis 15.7 por ciento; Giardia lamblia 7.5 por ciento Cryptosporidium sp. 1.6 por ciento; Entamoeba coli 3.3 por ciento, Chilomastix mesnilii 1.1 por ciento; Ancylostoma duodenale-Necator americanus 0.5 por ciento; Ascaris lumbricoides 0.5 por ciento; Enterobius vermicularis 0.5 por ciento y Endolimax nan 0.5 por ciento. Los enteroparásitos más frecuentes encontrados en los pacientes positivos fueron B. hominis y G. Lamblia. Cryptosporidium sp. se diagnosticó sólo en 3 pacientes. En todos se pudo presumir la fuente de infección. La sintomatologfa coincidió con la descripta en la bibliograffa para este coccidio; a pesar de ser pacientes HIV seronegativos la diarrea no fue autolimitante, pero se desconoció el perfil inmunológico de los pacientes y no se pudo descartar otra causa de inmunosupresión que justificara la cronicidad. El tratamiento con espiramicina fue satisfactorio. Presentaron giardiasis 14 pacientes; en ninguno se pudo inferir la fuente de infección. Todos tenián diarrea crónica y los síntomas más frecuentes fueron dolor abdominal, sabor metálico, flatulencia y náuseas. La mayorfa de estos pacientes estuvieron monoparasitados, y sólo 2 de ellos presentaron simultáneamente otro parásito fecal asociado a G. lambia. El tratamiento con metronidazol fue exitoso en todos. Se diagnosticaron también 29 pacientes con B. hominis, tampoco se pudo inferir la fuente de infección. En 25 de ellos,este ameboide se presentó como único parásito, siendo los sfntomas predominantes: flatulencia, distención abdominal y cólicos. Todos padecían diarrea crónica, en algunos casos alternada con constipación...

Estudio morfologico de Enterocytozoon bieneusi en pacientes con SIDA y diarrhea cronica / Morphological study of Enterocytozoon bineousi in patients with AIDS and chronic diarrhea

Microsporidia are protozoan parasites responsible for significant gastrointestinal disease in patients infected with the human inmunodeficiency virus. We reporte the clinical features of three patients with chronic diarrhea and intestinal microsporidiosis caused by Enterocytozoon bieneusi. The average value for CD4 in these patients was ó 50 cells/mm3. The spores were detected in smears from stool samples and duodenal aspirates stained with trichrome blue in all patiens. Light microscopy of semithin plastic sections revealed parasites and spores in the enterocytes and were associated with villous atrophy (2 out of 3). Thin section-electron microscopy showed a variety of developmental stages of the microsporidio. Patients treated with Albendazole had an unsatisfactory clinical response to therapy. Enterocytozzon bieneusi infection may be an important cause of diarrhea in patiens with AIDS in our country.