Investigating Specific Calprotectin and Immunological Markers Associated With Intestinal Infections Caused by Entamoeba histolytica

Abstract

Background: Entamoeba histolytica is a parasitic organism that infects the intestines and causes dysentery, characterized by intestine inflammation. Objectives: We aimed to estimate calprotectin levels and their relationship to the severity and progression of intestinal inflammation. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in Al-Habbobi Teaching Hospital Thi-Qar, Al-Nasseriah, Iraq, from March 10 to October 1, 2023. The sample included 50 men and 50 women aged in three groups: 25–29, 30-34, and >34 years. We employed microscopy, direct wet method, and formal-ether concentration approach to detect parasites. Also, we employed nzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for measuring fecal calprotectin (FC) and C-reactive protein (CRP), and XP-Sysmex for detecting white blood cells. Results: The calprotectin levels below 50 ng/mL were more common in the second age group. The third age group had calprotectin values of 50 ng/mL. In the first age group (25–29 years old), calprotectin frequency was similar. CRP levels were equal in the first age group. In the second age group (30–34 years), negative CRP outnumbered positive CRP. Positive CRP was more common than negative in the third age group of >34 years. The group above 35 had the highest general stool examination (GSE) and antigen Ag detection rates, while those aged 30–34 years in the control group had the highest. Conclusion: Calprotectin levels less than 50 ng/mL were more frequent in the age group of 30-34 years, while calprotectin levels greater than 50 ng/mL were more frequent in the age group <35 years. CRP levels were equal in frequency in the first age group. Negative CRP was more common than positive CRP in the second age group. Positive CRP was more common than negative CRP in the third age group.