Direct Wet Mount Microscopy Research Articles

Decreased Weight-for-Age Associated with Mass Deworming among Young Ethiopian Schoolchildren in Jimma Town, Southwest Ethiopia: A School-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

School-based mass deworming programs are implemented to reduce soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection prevalence and intensity among school-aged children. However, previous studies debate the impact of deworming beyond the removal of worms. Hence, this study aimed to examine the effect of mass deworming on nutritional indicators in young Ethiopian schoolchildren. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,036 participants from April to May 2020 in Jimma Town, Ethiopia. An interviewer-based questionnaire was administered to the children to gather data on sociodemographic, lifestyle variables, and deworming status. Anthropometric measurements were taken for the height and weight of the children. Stool samples were collected and analyzed for STH infection using direct wet mount microscopy and the Kato-Katz technique. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, deworming within the past 6 months or 1 year was not significantly associated with underweight, stunting, and thinning. However, deworming within the past year was significantly associated with decreased weight-for-age z-score (adjusted mean difference = -0.245; 95% CI: -0.413 to -0.076; P = 0.004). Deworming in the past 6 months demonstrated a nonsignificant trend toward increased stunting (adjusted odds ratio = 1.258; 95% CI: 0.923-1.714; P = 0.145). This study provides evidence that deworming in the past 6 months or 1 year was not significantly associated with underweight, stunting, and thinning. However, deworming within the past year was associated with a significantly decreased weight-for-age z-score in young Ethiopian schoolchildren of Jimma Town after adjustment for confounding variables.

Performance Evaluation of Three Diagnostic Methods for Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections among Schoolchildren in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia.

Soil-transmitted helminths are parasitic nematodes found in the intestine. They are more prevalent in the tropics and subtropics, including Ethiopia. However, low-sensitive direct wet mount microscopy fails to detect soil-transmitted helminths among infected cases. Therefore, more sensitive and cost-effective diagnostic methods are urgently needed to minimize soil-transmitted helminthiasis morbidity. This study aimed to compare and evaluate the performance of diagnostic methods for soil-transmitted helminths against the "gold" standard. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 421 schoolchildren from May to July, 2022 in the Amhara Region. Study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were processed via Kato-Katz, McMaster, and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques. Data were entered into epi-data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 25. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated against the combined result as a "gold" standard. The strength of agreement between the diagnostic methods was determined by the Kappa value. The overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths was 32.8% (95% CI: 28.2-37.8%) using a combination of methods. The detection rates of Kato-Katz, McMaster, and spontaneous tube sedimentation were 28.5% (95% CI: 24.2-33.2%), 30% (95% CI: 25.6-34.8%), and 30.5% (95% CI: 26.1-35.3%), respectively. Sensitivity and negative predictive values were 87.1% (95% CI: 80.2-92.3%) and 95.1% (95% CI: 92.6-96.8%) for Kato-Katz; 91.7% (95% CI: 85.6-95.6%) and 96.5% (95% CI: 94.1-98.0%) for McMaster; and 93.2% (95% CI: 87.5-96.8%) and 97.1% (95% CI: 94.7-98.4%) for spontaneous tube sedimentation. Kappa values of Kato-Katz, McMaster, and spontaneous tube sedimentation for the diagnosis of soil-transmitted helminths were 0.901, 0.937, and 0.948, respectively. Kato-Katz, McMaster, and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques had comparable sensitivity with almost perfect agreement for the detection of soil-transmitted helminths. Therefore, the spontaneous tube sedimentation technique can be used as an alternative diagnostic method for soil-transmitted helminth infections in endemic countries.

Estudio clínico-micológico de 136 tiñas en atención primaria

BackgroundDermatophyte infections are common skin diseases in Primary Care (PC) but vary over time and between geographycal areas. ObjetivesThe aim of this study clinical cases was determined the epidemiological profile and etiological agents of dermatophytoses in two PC areas. Also sensitivity and specificity of direct wet mount microscopy 20% KOH solution (40% for nails specimens) versus culture was calculated by 2 x 2 table. MethodsIn period from 2006 to 2020 a total 327 specimens of skin, nails or hair were collected from 325 clinically suspected cases of dermatophytoses and subjected to microscopy and culture. ResultsTinea corporis (59,55%) , tinea unguium pedum (20,58%) and tinea pedis (11,76%) were predominant clinical forms. The most frequent species was Microsporum canis (36,02%), followed by Trichophyton rubrum (27,94%), Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. mentagrophytes (22,05%), T. mentagrophytes var. interdigitale (7,35%) and Epidermophyton floccosum (6,61%). M. canis was the major pathogen causing t. capitis (66,6%) and t. corporis (58%) and predominant until 15 years, while T. rubrum was the common isolated dermatophye in t. unguium pedum (78,57%) and t. pedis (56,25%) and affected mostly up 15 years. Sensitivity was 93% and specificity 92%. ConclusionsThe results revealed a Southern European and mediterranean pattern: t. corporis and M. canis are the most frequent clinical form and etiology of dermatophyte infection.

Molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis of Macrorhabdus ornithogaster based on the 18S rRNA gene in companion birds of Tehran, Iran.

Macrorhabdus ornithogaster (MO) is an infectious yeast which can cause acute gastric disturbances in birds. It has a worldwide distribution with a broad host-range of bird species. Molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis of MO based on the 18S rRNA gene in companion birds of Iran. A total of 54 stool samples were taken from birds (10 species) suspected of being infected. The presence of MO in collected stool samples was investigated using direct wet mount microscopy. Specific primers were designed to identify the MO 18S rRNA gene by using PCR. PCR products were sequenced and phylogenetic analysis was performed to determine the molecular diversity. The obtained results demonstrated that 44.44% and 59.26% of the samples were diagnosed positive based on the first and second specific primers, respectively. MO was detected in the feces of canary, goldfinch, budgerigar, toucan, and English budge. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that MO sequence data from canaries, finches, and goldfinches had homology with an MO isolated from a German zebra finch. Moreover, MOs from cockatiels, rosy faced love birds, and budgerigars had a high phylogenetic similarity with multiple references, including American budgerigar, Japanese cockatiel, European goldfinch, and German budgerigar. MO exists in many species of Iranian birds, including goldfinches, budgerigars, toucans, and English budgies. As indicated by phylogenetic and polymorphism data analysis, the newly designed specific primers spanning a large portion of 18S rRNA gene of MO, provides additional tool to detect and study the molecular diversity of MO.

Study on the Role of Gastrointestinal Parasite in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients in a Tribal Region of India.

BackgroundIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder in which abdominal pain is associated with a change in bowel habits. Gut inflammation might be one of the mechanisms of pathogenesis. However, the cause of IBS is not clearly understood. Post-infectious IBS (PI-IBS) is the onset of IBS after an episode of infectious gastroenteritis. While the exact pathophysiology of PI-IBS is not established, the mechanism might be an altered serotonin signaling activity, inflammation, malabsorption, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Various parasites such as Blastocystis hominis and Dientamoeba fragilis have a possible role in the etiology of IBS. Entamoeba histolytica is one of the predominant GI parasites in developing regions of the world, and the symptoms of non-dysenteric amebic colitis may mimic those of IBS, which makes them difficult to distinguish from each other. Our study will address the relationship between the different gastrointestinal protozoan parasites in IBS and the role of antiparasitic therapy in PI-IBS. This study also aimed to determine the prevalence of GI protozoan parasites in patients with IBS in a tribal region of India.MethodsWe conducted a descriptive facility-based cross-sectional study of patients presenting with IBS to Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital, Koraput, Odisha, from 2017 to 2021. We collected stool samples for histopathological analysis using direct wet mount and formal-ether concentration microscopy techniques if diarrhea persisted beyond the antidiarrheal therapy. The samples from IBS patients were compared against 80 healthy control patient stool samples. We used IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY,) to analyze the data.ResultsOur study included 120 patients with IBS, of whom 67 (56%) were infected with GI parasites. In the control group, 16 (20%) were infected with GI parasites, which was significantly fewer than the test group (p<0.001).ConclusionWe found a widespread infestation with GI parasites in patients with diarrhea-predominate IBS. A parasitological stool test should be included in the diagnostic approach to IBS. Initiating early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the chance of post-infectious IBS.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Intestinal Parasites among Diarrheic Under-Five Children Attending Bahir Dar and Han Health Centers, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Intestinal parasitic infection is one of the major public health problems in developing countries including Ethiopia. The problem is highly pronounced in children under five years of age who are not able to adhere to prevention and control precautions. Objective To assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and associated factors among diarrheic children under five years of age attending Bahir Dar and Han Health Centers, Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among diarrheic children less than five years of age at Bahir Dar and Han Health Centers, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020. A total of 221 diarrheic children less than five years of age were recruited using the convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested structured Amharic version questionnaire after obtaining informed consent from children's parents or guardians. Approximately 1 mL of fresh fecal specimen was collected and subjected to direct saline wet mount microscopy. All data were entered into Epi Info version 7 and transferred to SPSS statistical software version 20 for analysis. Logistic regression was employed to assess risk factors associated with increased prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in diarrheic children under five years of age, and a P value < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 19% (95%CI = 14–24.6). The most prevalent intestinal parasites were Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar (24 (10.86%)), Giardia lamblia (12 (5.43%)), and Ascaris lumbricoides (2 (0.9%)). Children's mother/guardian washed their hands sometimes after the toilet (AOR = 2.98, 95% CI: 1.09-8.18), children who always eat unwashed fruits and vegetables (AOR = 4.63, 95% CI: 1.09–19.75), and children's mother/guardian who had no knowledge about the mode of transmission (AOR = 4.03, 95% CI: 1.04–15.64) were risk factors significantly associated with increased intestinal parasitic infections. Conclusion The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was found low compared to the population prevalence reported by WHO. However, strengthening health education about food and personal hygiene of both children and their mothers/guardians is crucial to limit the transmission of IPIs.

Incidence of parasitic infection in adult and juvenile Clarias gariepinus in a private fish farm, Yola, Adamawa state

The study was conducted in Gesedaddo’s farm, Yola, Adamawa state, Nigeria to determine the prevalence of parasites infecting Clarias gariepinus between June to November, 2016. A total of one hundred and thirty-two (132) fish were sampled for parasitic investigation. Out of these, cultured adults (66) and cultured juveniles (66) respectively were procured from the farm and examined for parasites using the keys of fresh water fish parasite pictorial guide and were examined for parasitic infections using direct wet mount microscopy and stained smears. A total number of 43 adult Clarias gariepinus were infected out of which 132 parasites were identified, while in juvenile Clarias gariepinus, a total number of 10 fish were infected in which 30 parasites were identified in Gesedaddo’s farm. Seven (7) classes of parasites and eleven (11) parasite species, which are namely, Piscinoodinium, (Dinoflagellata), Coccidia, Spironucleus vortens, (Flagellata), Chilodonella, Tetrehymena, (Motile ciliate), Capillaria, Contracaecum, (Nematoda), Microsporidians, (Protozoa), Saprolegnia sp, (Oomycota), Digeneans, and Planarian (Trematoda) were recorded from the gills, stomach, intestine, and skin mucus of the cultured Clarias gariepinus on the farm. Parasitic infestation was higher in the intestine with 63 (47.73) and the least was identified 6 (4.55) on the skin for adult Clarias gariepinus while the highest number of parasites identified in juvenile Clarias gariepinus was found on the skin with total number of 11 (36.67). Among the class of parasites identified, it was recorded that the highest parasitic load occurred most in the class protozoan with 45 (34.09%) and 17 (56.67) in adult and Juvenile C. gariepinus respectively. The Chi square value shows that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the prevalence and intensity of parasitic infection in adults and juvenile C. gariepinus based on sex. Parasitic infestations in the adult and juvenile female were significantly higher than in the adult and juvenile male in cultured Clarias gariepinus. There was a significant difference between incidence of infestation, standard length and body weight of Clarias gariepinus while there was no significant difference (p> 0.05) between parasitic load.

Incidence of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Trichomonas vaginalis&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; among Internally Displaced Women in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

A total of 282 outpatient pregnant antenatal and non-pregnant women from internally displaced camps attending the Poly Health Clinic (PHC) and the Enwang Health Centre (EHC) were examined for Trichomonas vaginalis infection. Direct wet mount microscopy and Giemsa staining techniques were used on High Vaginal Swab (HVS) specimens collected on sterile swab sticks. A prevalence of 20 (57.1%) was recorded using both methods; 12 (7.2%) in PHC and 08 (6.2%) in EHC Mbo local government area, Akwa Ibom State respectively. Differences among pregnant and non-pregnant women used were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Women in the age group 15 - 19 years had the highest prevalence of infection 03 (10.5%), closely followed by those of age group 20 - 24 years 6 (6.8%). A total number of 14 (6.7%) infections were recorded among married women followed by single women with 06 (10%). A higher prevalence rate of 01 (24%) was recorded among women who attended Quranic level of education and 04 (16.7%) with uneducated women, this may be due to small sample size within this group of women. 12 (6.5%) in women with primary school education and 03 (4.7%) in women with secondary school level of education. The need for improved personal hygiene in IDP camps and other effective intervention programmes among these vulnerable groups of women is advocated.

Diagnostic Significance of Wet Mount Microscopy- A Retrospective Observational Study

Introduction: Wet mount microscopy is a rapid and easy conventional technique that provides a quick answer when positive and it provides an approximation of the infection burden. In this era of modern medicine where almost every infection is being diagnosed, using expensive and sophisticated molecular techniques, a simple wet mount examination of a clinical sample can still be relevant in several infections and play a significant role in the early diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Aim: To focus and review the significance of wet mount examination of clinical specimens for diagnosis. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study with 11 cases was conducted at a superspeciality hospital in New Delhi over a period of six months from March 2019 to August 2019. Direct microscopic demonstration of motile E. histolytica trophozoites in saline wet mount of colonic biopsy specimens was done in patients presenting with non specific gastrointestinal symptoms. Positive cases were immediately reported to the clinician for further management. In view of this study, literature search was done on PubMed and Google scholar platforms for studies on wet mount examination of clinical specimens, data was analysed and all infectious diseases were identified for which wet mount microscopy will help in decreasing the Turn around Time (TAT) for diagnosing the infection from 24 hours to 20-30 minutes in real time. Results: Motile trophozoites of E. histolytica were seen in eight out of 11 cases studied. Amoebic serology by Enzyme-linked Immunoassay (ELISA) and histopathology for amoebic trophozoites was positive in all eight patients with 100% association between microscopic demonstrations of motile E. histolytica trophozoites in saline wet mount for amoebiasis. Conclusion: Right test at right time for clinical management of infectious diseases requires good communication between laboratory and clinicians. Direct Wet mount microscopy of clinical samples is rapid, simple, cost-effective method to decrease TAT and guide the clinicians to rule out infections and avoid unnecessary empirical use of antimicrobial drugs.

Ease of use and validity testing of a point-of-care fast test for parasitic vaginosis self-diagnosis.

There is a demand for patients to self-diagnose their sexually transmitted infections (self- testing), particularly during the coronavirus pandemic to prevent infection spread. We enrolled a cohort of Saudi women in a single-visit prospective study, which was the first of its kind performed in the country. Our aim was to evaluate the OSOM® Trichomonas (OSOM) test, a single-use, point-of-care rapid test, for its efficacy and accessibility as a self-test for Trichomonas vaginalis (Trichomonas) infection. At a public hospital's gynecology clinic, women received sufficient training on specimen collection and OSOM self-testing. The women's infection status was re-evaluated using direct wet mount microscopy and clinician performed OSOM using additional swabs. Specimens with discordant results were sorted using an in- house polymerase chain reaction (PCR). 174 women aged 18 to 35 were registered and self- tested at the clinic under the supervision of a gynecologist between June and December 2020, with 84.4 percent (147/174) having a valid result on the first or repeat OSOM. Infection was detected in 12.2% (18/147) of participants, with two-thirds of them symptomatic. Young age, low education, the existence of vaginitis symptoms, and unemployment were identified as key risk factors for infection in the study population, with statistically significant differences seen among women only in terms of education level and employment status (p<0.001). The OSOM self-test performed well (83.3% sensitivity and 98.4% specificity), outperforming the wet mount microscopy (72.2% sensitivity and 100% specificity) and comparable to the clinicians' OSOM (88.8% sensitivity and 100% specificity). The patients' and clinicians' OSOM tests were strongly correlated, with a kappa of 0.89 and a 97.9% agreement. Self-collection of vaginal swabs was accepted and preferred by most women (94%) over the clinician-collection. Overall, our study's findings may have important consequences for the implementation of Trichomonas screening based on OSOM self-testing approach in the study's population.

Prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis and its correlation with socio-demographic variables in pregnant women in Al-Diwaniya, Iraq

Estimates of Trichomonas vaginalis prevalence in pregnant women are variable with few studies in Iraq. T. vaginalis is a worldwide prevalent sexually transmitted infection, but fortunately, it is very treatable. Researchers believed that pregnancy is one of the effective factors for T. vaginalis infection in women. A cross-sectional study performed in Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Maternity and Children Hospital in Al-Diwaniya city on two hundred female pregnant patients between the ages of 16–45 years. These females had no intercourse for 2–3 days, not using drugs (antibiotics, antiprotozoal or steroids) for the last 15 days. Vaginal discharges of any type with or without itching, burning sensation or both were their main complaints. Vaginal swabs were taken from all participating patients for direct wet mount microscopy and culture for the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis infection. The study showed that twelve out of two hundred examined pregnant women (6%) presented with T. vaginalis infection. The infection was more in those with mothers’ age (26–35) years, housewives, low education, higher parity, and of rural residents. Other maternal variables were not significantly associated with T. vaginalis infection. The study showed a prevalence of (6%) of T. vaginalis infection in pregnant female attendees. Infection was more in those with mothers ’age (26–35) years, housewives, low educational level, higher parity, and living in rural areas.

Evaluation of Hookworm Diagnosis Techniques from Patients in Debre Elias and Sanja Districts of the Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Background Inappropriate diagnosis could intimidate the prevention and control of hookworm infection. Thus, this study was aimed at evaluating the performance of hookworm diagnosis methods. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from patients in Debre Elias and Sanja districts of the Amhara region, Ethiopia, from November 2019 to January 2020. The study subjects were selected conveniently. After the data was entered into Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, test accuracy, and agreement of the different hookworm diagnosis methods, namely, test tube flotation technique (TFT), McMaster (MM), formol-ether concentration (FEC), Kato-Katz (KK), and direct wet mount microscopy (DWMM), were calculated by using SPSS software. The composite reference standard (CRS) was used as the gold standard method. The kappa (κ) test was used to measure the level of agreement between diagnosis tests. Result A total of 389 stool samples were collected from patients in the study. The overall prevalence of hookworm was 63.24%. The test tube flotation technique (TFT) was found to be the highest both in terms of sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy (100%). McMaster (MM) was the second most sensitive test (68.7%), followed by FEC (44.3%) and KK (38.2%). On the other hand, DWMM had the lowest sensitivity (37.4%), and its diagnostic accuracy was also the least (60%). Only TFT had a perfect agreement (agreement = 100%, kappa = 1) with the CRS. The sensitivity of DWMM, KK, and FEC showed a kind of linear function with the intensity of infection, but TFT and MM methods were not affected by the infection intensity. Conclusion Hookworm is still a public health problem in the study area. TFT is by far more sensitive than MM, FEC, KK, and DWMM techniques.

Epidemiology of Trichomons vaginalis among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria

The study assessed the epidemiology of Trichomonas vaginalis among 200 pregnant women aged between 15-45 years attending antenatal care in three private hospitals in Idiroko, Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Direct wet mount microscopy and culture were used on High Vaginal swabs collected from the consented participants after the administration of questionnaire to collect their knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) with regard to the Trichomoniasis. The educational profile showed that 23% had primary education while 60% had secondary education. Age group between 15-25years 174(67%) of the participants were traders. 30(15%) Prevalence were positive for Trichomonas from wet mount microscopy method while no positive was recorded in the cultures. There was a statistical difference between number of sexual partners, occupation, family type and previous sexually transmitted infection. 114(57%) of respondents have not heard of sexually transmitted disease while 173(86%) of respondents were not aware that Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease. The result from this study indicate that trichomoniasis is still a public health problem in Nigeria and little have been done for its control. The risk factors of this disease includes age group, number of sexual partners, trimester and occupation.

Epidemiological Characterization of Dermatomycosis in Ethiopia.

BackgroundSuperficial mycosis is common worldwide and their epidemiological characteristics are different in different geographical areas and have shown variations in the last decades. The aim of this study was to analyze and characterize the epidemiology of dermatomycosis and their causative fungi species in Ethiopia between 2015 and 2019.MethodsA laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted using the data of mycological examination and culture findings from all patients who visited the Dermatology Department of Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The direct wet mount microscopy and culture data of the isolates were collected from the database of the dermatology unit from 2015 to 2019 after permission was obtained from the laboratory head. The data were double-entered into Microsoft Excel, exported and analyzed using SPSS version 20.ResultsThe total prevalence of fungi causing dermatomycosis was 67.7% (760/1122 cases) using direct wet mount microscopy and from these 489/1122 (43.5%) were culture positive. Dermatomycosis was found to be higher among females 694/1122 (61.9%) than male participants. Age group 25–44 years was the most affected 442/1122 (39.4%) followed by 1–14 years old 291/1122 (25.94%). Tinea unguium (50.8%) is the most common type of dermatomycosis followed by tinea capitis (24.1%) and tinea corporis (13.9%). Trichophyton spp. (32%) was the most highly distributed causative agent, followed by Epidermophyton spp. (20.2%) and Aspergillus fumigatus (8.3%).ConclusionThe retrospective analysis of epidemiological data collected at Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory since 2015 showed a gradual increase in the frequency of tinea unguium and tinea pedis. However, during the past years, there was a gradual decline in the frequency of tinea corporis. In parallel with this variable pattern, the rate of isolation of non-dermatophytes especially Aspergillus fumigates and Candida species has shown a gradual increment during the past five years.

Treatment efficacy and re-infection rates of soil-transmitted helminths following mebendazole treatment in schoolchildren, Northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundTransmission of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection remains high in Ethiopia. This study aimed at assessing the therapeutic efficacy of mebendazole against soil-transmitted helminths and determining the re-infection rates of the parasites among schoolchildren in Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA school-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool specimens were examined using direct wet mount microscopy and Kato-Katz methods. Schoolchildren who tested positive for soil-transmitted helminths were treated with 500 mg single-dose of mebendazole. Cure and egg reduction rates were evaluated 2 to 3 weeks post treatment. Moreover, the re-infection rate of these parasites among those who were cured was determined 1 year after treatment. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. P value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.ResultA drug efficacy study was conducted on 62, 52, and 14 children infected by Ascaris lumbricoides (A. lumbricoides), hookworm, and Trichuris trichiura (T. trichiura), respectively. The cure rates (CR) of mebendazole against A. lumbricoides, hookworm, and T. trichiura were found to be 96.9%, 23.1%, and, 28.6%, respectively. The egg reduction rate (ERR) of A. lumbricoides was found to be 99.6% whereas 49.6% and 56.3% were reported for hookworm and T. trichiura, respectively. Eighty schoolchildren who were treated and cured from any STH infections were included for the determination of re-infection rate. Out of 80 children, 36.3% (29/80) were found to be re-infected after 1 year: 22 (75.9%), 6 (20.7%), and 1 (1.3%) of study participants were re-infected with A. lumbricoides, hookworm, and both infections, respectively. All re-infections were grouped under the “light infection” category.ConclusionMebendazole was found to be highly effective against A. lumbricoides, but had relatively low efficacy against hookworms and T. trichiura. These results bring into question the use of mebendazole in STH mass drug administration (MDA) programs in this region if albendazole, a drug with higher efficacy against hookworms, is available. Moreover, a significant number of treated children were re-infected with either or both of A. lumbricoides or hookworms 1 year after treatment emphasizing the need for better integrated intestinal helminthiasis control measures.

Performance Evaluation of Diagnostic Methods for Schistosoma mansoni Detection in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background Schistosoma mansoni is a parasitic worm that infects humans throughout the world. It is more prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. Proper detection of Schistosoma mansoni using sensitive diagnostic methods is crucial in the prevention and control era. Since direct wet mount microscopy with its low sensitivity has been used as a diagnostic technique in Ethiopia, searching alternative diagnostic methods which have better sensitivity should be a priority agenda. Objective This study is aimed at evaluating the performance of diagnostic methods for Schistosoma mansoni in Amhara region. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 520 school children from October to December 2019 in Amhara region. The study participants were selected by a systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were collected from each participant and processed via formol-ether concentration, Kato-Katz, and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques. The data was entered into EpiData version 3.1, and analysis was done using SPSS version 20. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated against the combined result as “Gold” standard. A kappa value was computed to measure the strength of agreement of the diagnostic methods. Results The overall prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni was 20.2% using a combination of three methods. The prevalence of 8.3%, 12.9%, and16.3%, respectively, was recorded by using formol-ether concentration, Kato-Katz, and spontaneous tube sedimentation. The spontaneous tube sedimentation method (81.0%) had better sensitivity compared to Kato-Katz (63.8%) and formol-ether concentration (41.0%) methods in Schistosoma mansoni detection. Conclusion The spontaneous tube sedimentation technique is more sensitive and has better detection rate to Schistosoma mansoni infection followed by the Kato-Katz technique. Therefore, updating the current diagnostic methods for Schistosoma mansoni could be a priority agenda to take action in schistosomiasis prevention and control.

Concurrent infection of intestinal parasites and Helicobacter pylori among school-age children in Central Ethiopia

BackgroundCoinfection of multiple intestinal microbial pathogens plays an important role in individuals harboring these organisms. However, data on magnitude and risk factors are scarce from resource limited settings. ObjectiveWe examined the prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal parasites and Helicobacter pylori co-infection among young Ethiopian school children. MethodData from a total of 434 Ethiopian school children from the Ziway region were analyzed in the study. Stool antigen and blood serum antibody tests were used to detect H. pylori, while the presence of any intestinal parasites was detected using direct wet mount microscopy and formol-ether concentration techniques. A structured questionnaire was delivered to mothers and legal guardians of the children by an interviewer to collect data relevant demographic and lifestyle factors. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association of these sociodemographic characteristics with the coinfection of H. pylori and intestinal parasites. ResultsThe prevalence of coinfection with any intestinal parasites and Helicobacter pylori was 23.0% (n = 92/400). Univariate analysis showed an increased risk for co-infection among children whose mothers had non-formal education (COR: 1.917, p < 0.01) and those who had no history of child vaccination (COR: 3.455, p = 0.084). Children aged 10–14 and those who lived in a house that had a flush or ventilated latrine were found at lower odds of coinfection between intestinal parasites and Helicobacter pylori (COR: 0.670, p = 0.382; COR: 0.189, p = 0.108). Multivariate regression analysis showed increased odds of co-infection among children whose mothers had non-formal education (AOR: 1.978, p < 0.01). Maternal education was also associated with a two-fold increase in odds for H. pylori and any protozoa co-infection (AOR: 2.047, p < 0.01). ConclusionOur study shows a moderate prevalence of H. pylori and intestinal parasite co-infection and identified maternal education as a significant risk factor among school children.

Diagnostic sensitivity of direct wet mount microscopy for soil-transmitted helminth infections in Jimma Town, Ethiopia.

Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) remains a major public health problem in school children in Ethiopia. Although direct wet mount microscopy (DWMM) is the means to diagnose parasitic diseases in health care facilities in Ethiopia, it remains unclear what its diagnostic performance is for STH. A cross-sectional study was performed in Jimma Town (Ethiopia) and included 600 children from 10 primary schools. The diagnostic sensitivity of DWMM was compared to a composite reference standard (CRS) consisting of Kato-Katz, McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC. We also explored the impact of intensity of infection (the highest faecal egg counts (FECs; expressed as eggs per gram of stool (EPG)) across the CRS) on the diagnostic sensitivity of DWMM. Based on the CRS, there were 210 Ascaris (35.0%), 312 Trichuris (52.0%) and 102 hookworm cases (17.0%). The median intensity of infections equalled 2,057 EPG for Ascaris, 200 EPG for Trichuris and 110 EPG for hookworms. The sensitivity of DWMM was 73.8% for Ascaris, but was around 17% for both Trichuris and hookworms. The sensitivity significantly increased with intensity of STH. For Ascaris, the odds for detecting an infection intensity of 1,000 EPG was 6.2 times higher than detecting an infection of 100 EPG. For Trichuris and hookworms, these odds ratios were 7.1 and 14. The diagnostic sensitivity of DWMM is low for STH, but it is able to detect those subjects that are in the highest need of treatment, and hence contributes to the global goal to eliminate STH as a public health problem.

Vaginitis in women of reproductive age group: A hospital-based study from North India

Background: Vaginal discharge is a common problem faced by women of the reproductive age group seeking consultation in the gynecology outpatient department (GOPD). If not treated, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and further complicate pregnancy. Objective: The present study explores the etiology and clinical presentations of vaginal discharge among women of reproductive age presenting to the GOPD of our tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised of 200 sexually active women of age group ?18 years attending our GOPD. Four vaginal swabs were taken from the posterior fornix under aseptic condition. Direct wet mount microscopy, gram stain, and culture on Sabaroud’s dextrose agar and Kupferberg media were carried out. Results: Prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and mixed infection was 30%, 20%, 2%, and 2%, respectively. Candida albicans were present in 55% patients and non-albicans Candida in 45%. The most common associated presenting symptom of patients presenting with the discharge was lower abdominal pain. Conclusion: Simple diagnostic techniques such as microscopy and culture help in diagnosis and the precise managementprocess of such women presenting with discharge and thus circumvent impending complication.

Prevalence of Trichomonas Vaginalis and its Correlation with Socio-demographic Variables in Pregnant Women in Al-Diwaniya,Iraq

Estimates of Trichomonas vaginalis prevalence in pregnant women are variable with few studies in Iraq.T. vaginalis is a worldwide prevalent sexually transmitted infection,but fortunately,it is very treatable. Researchers believed that pregnancy is one of the effective factors for T. vaginalis infection in women.A cross-sectional study performed in Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Maternity and Children Teaching Hospital in Al-Diwaniya city on two hundred female pregnant patients between the ages of 16-45 years. These females had no intercourse for 2–3 days,not using drugs (antibiotics,antiprotozoal or steroids) for the last 15 days. Vaginal discharges of any type with or without itching,burning sensation or both were their main complaints. Vaginal swabs were taken from all participating patients for direct wet mount microscopy and culture for the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis infection. The study showed that twelve out of two hundred examined pregnant women (6%) presented with T. vaginalis infection. The infection was more in those with mothers’ age (26-35) years,housewives,low education,higher parity,and of rural residents. Other maternal variables were not significantly associated with T. vaginalis infection. The study showed a prevalence of (6%) of T. vaginalis infection in pregnant female attendees. Infection was more in those with mothers ’age (26-35) years,housewives,low educational level,higher parity,and living in rural areas.