Formalin-ether Sedimentation Technique Research Articles

Taeniasis in non-descript dogs in Ngorongoro, Tanzania: Prevalence and predisposing factors.

The prevalence of taeniasis was determined during the period January to April 2013 in a cross-sectional study of non-descript domestic dogs from the livestock–wildlife ecosystem of Ngorongoro, Tanzania. Taeniid eggs were determined by screening faecal samples using the formalin-ether sedimentation technique. Predisposing factors for dog infection were assessed in relation to demographic, husbandry and management data. Of the 205 faecal samples screened, 150 (73.2%) were positive for taeniid eggs. The prevalence of dogs harbouring taeniid eggs was 80%, 30.2% and 75.3% in the less than 1 year, 1–3 years and greater than 3 years of age groups, respectively. Age group and sex prevalence in dogs did not differ significantly (P > 0.05), although the females showed a marginally higher prevalence (73.8%) in comparison to the males (72.7%). Taeniid eggs were significantly more likely to be found in the faeces of dogs located in Waso (80.6%) and Endulen (75%) than in Malambo (63.2%, P < 0.05). The study revealed that dogs owned and raised by agro-pastoralists were at a lower risk of acquiring Taenia spp. infection (P = 0.001) than those that were raised by pastoralists. The majority of dog owners were not aware of the predisposing factors and the mode of transmission of taeniids. Dogs were frequently fed on viscera, trimmings and the heads of slaughtered animals, and they were not treated for parasitic infections. The findings of this study indicate that taeniasis is prevalent among non-descript dogs in Ngorongoro, underscoring the need for further research and active surveillance to better understand the transmission cycle of Taenia spp. in a wider geographical area in Tanzania.

Malaria and soil-transmitted helminthes coinfection in a rural community of Kwara State, North Central Nigeria

Malaria and soil-transmitted helminthes (STH) are common in most developing countries especially Nigeria. The aim of this study was to assess the rate of occurrence of Plasmodium falciparum and STHs coinfection and to determine the associated risk factors. A community based study was conducted on 300 individuals living in Oke-Oyi a rural community in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, between January and June 2014. Blood samples were collected by finger prick to determine malaria parasitaemia using thick and thin film method while stool samples were processed using formalin-ether sedimentation technique and examined microscopically for intestinal parasites. Well structured questionnaire was administered to ascertain socio-economic characteristics of the subjects. The prevalence of malaria was 56.7% while the prevalence of STHs/malaria coinfection was 40.1%. The age group 1-10 was found to be the most infected (74.3%) while males (60.7%) were more infected than females (51.8%). Ascaris lumbricoides Linnaeus, 1758 was the most prevalent (60.5%) STHs infection followed by Trichuris trichiura (Linnaeus, 1771) (57.6%). Multiple infections were more pronounced in the age group 1-10 (40.1%). Subjects that were farmers were more prone to coinfection. Intestinal parasitic infection and malaria coinfection is a serious health challenge in Oke-Oyi Area of Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. Therefore, concerted efforts such as mass deworming, improved sanitation, provision of toilet facilities and health education is encouraged.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with endoparasitosis of dogs and cats in Espírito Santo, Brazil.

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for the occurrence of endoparasitosis in dogs and cats in Espírito Santo, Brazil. For the study, 345 dogs and 160 cats were examined. Faecal samples from the animals were collected, and owners were interviewed about their handling of their animals. For the diagnosis of the infections, the Willis-Molley, simple centrifugal flotation and formalin-ether sedimentation techniques were performed. The data found in the tests were tabulated and analysed with a chi-square test (p <0.05), and calculation of odds ratios (OR) with confidence intervals of 95% were then performed to determine the association between the variables and the outcome of stool examinations. The prevalence of parasites was 59% for dogs and 54% for cats. The genus Ancylostoma was the most prevalent (45%). Supplying filtered water, not feeding raw foods, standardisation of a defecation site and cleaning up the faeces reduced the chances of developing intestinal parasites. An increased frequency of deworming was also shown to be a protective factor; specifically animals which received anthelmintic more than once a year had a lower predisposition for intestinal parasites.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites among Children Attending the Daycare Centers of Ilam, Western Iran

The prevalence of intestinal parasites among children in developed and developing countries is striking. We decided to survey the prevalence of intestinal parasites among children in the day care centers of Ham, Iran, given that this has not been investigated in this region. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in preschool children. For this study, we enrolled 650 children whose parents filled out a consent form. A fresh stool sample was obtained from each child and analyzed using direct methods, including saline and formalin-ether sedimentation techniques. A standardized questionnaire which included demographic information, socioeconomic status, type of drinking water, personal hygiene, parental age and education and number of family members, was prepared for each child. Of the 650 children, 310 were male and 340 were female. All of them were under the age of 6 years. The overall infection rate of intestinal parasites was 14. The parasites identified in the samples, with their prevalence in parentheses, include Giardia lamblia (11.7), Hymenolepis nana (7.84), Ascaris lumbricoidese ggs (3.84), Entamoeba coli (10.76), Blastocystis hominis (5.69), Dientamoebafragilis (4.30), Iodamoeba butschlii (6.61) andEntamoeba histolytica (2.92). Mixed infections were seen inl8 of the samples. The highest and lowest prevalence was seen with G. lamblia and E. histolytica, respectively. The parents' educational level was significantly associated with prevalence of parasites (p<0.05). E. histolytica, a deadly parasite, was found during this study. A precise survey of the causes of these infections and the factors related to distribution of parasites, along with periodic testing of children and their educators, health management and staff training, is essential.

English

Fasciolosis is an important helminth disease of livestock and other ruminants. A cross sectional study to determine the prevalence of Fasciola gigantica in cattle was carried out in 9 randomly selected farms and 1 slaughter house between February and May 2012. Faecal and blood samples were collected from 186 cattle in the farms and 200 cattle at slaughter. The faecal samples were analysed using the formol ether sedimentation technique and the blood by Indirect ELISA kit (Bio-X-Diagnostic, ID VET Jemelle-Belgium) to detect F. gigantica eggs and antibodies to F. gigantica antigens respectively. Of the 200 faecal samples collected at slaughter, 39(19.5%) had F. gigantica eggs; as compared to 27 (14.5%) positives out of the 186 samples collected from the farms; giving an overall prevalence rate of 66 (17.1%). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) between prevalence of infection of cattle sampled in the farms and slaughter house. 23 (11.5%) of the sera prepared from the 200 blood samples obtained at slaughter had antibodies to F. hepatica antigens, as against 5(2.6%) for sera from 186 blood samples collected in the farms; giving an overall seroprevalence of 28(7.3%). There was significant difference (P 0.05). No statistical difference was observed in breed prevalence. This study has established F. gigantica prevalence of 17.1% and 7.3% by coprological and serological examinations of faeces and blood of cattle in Zaria. It is recommended that cattle should be dewormed regularly and further serological screening be embarked in other Local Government Areas of Kaduna State, so as to know the current status of F. gigantica infection in cattle.

Auramine-Phenol vs. Modified Kinyoun’s Acid-Fast Stains for Detection of Coccidia Parasites

Auramine-phenol stain was compared with Kinyoun's acid-fast stain to detect coccidia parasites in fecal samples from immunocompromised patients. The comparison was based on the number of detected cases, sensitivity, specificity, time required for the procedure, ease of use, interpretation, and cost. A total of 112 fecal specimens were examined by conventional methods: Direct wet saline smear, iodine smear, and formol ether sedimentation technique. Duplicate smears of the fecal concentrates were stained by both procedures. Kinyoun's and auramine-phenol stains detected 22 and 24 positive coccidia specimens respectively. The control group (27 immunocompetent relatives) showed a high incidence of Giardia lamblia infection. Kinyoun smears were difficult to interpret, while auramine smears were extremely easy to read, thus requiring less time. Artifacts were readily recognizable. The cost of auramine-phenol reagents was much higher than Kinyoun's acid-fast stain. Although the overall ranking of both staining techniques was high, the auramine-phenol stain was a more desirable test despite its higher cost.

Uzun Süreli Karın Ağrısı Şikayeti Olan Hastada Poliparazitizm Olgusu

It is known that infections caused by intestinal protozoa and helminths affect over 3.5 million people worldwide. In this case report, a patient with complaints of stomach ache for a long time who received thermal treatment is presented. During this thermal treatment, diarrhoea occurred and multiparasitism was diagnosed with two helminths; pseudoparasitism and multiprotozoa, simultaneously. Stool samples were collected from the patient on three consecutive days and one day after the treatment. All of the samples were prepared with formalin-ether sedimentation techniques after macroscopic and direct microscopic investigation. Cellophane-tape method for Enterobius vermicularis and Taenia spp. and Erlich-Ziehl-Neelsen staining method for coccidian parasites were used. At least four preparations were performed for each sample and serum physiologic, lugol' solution and trichrome stain were used for microscopic investigations.The motile segment she brought was investigated microscopically with Indian ink and identified as Taenia saginata. Under direct microscopy, Blastocystis hominis, Endolimax nana and Fasciola hepatica were seen. By formalin-ether sedimentation techniques, Ascaris lumbricoides, Fasciola hepatica, Blastocystis hominis, Endolimax nana and Entamoeba coli were identified. In recent years, intestinal parasitism is rarely seen in our city; therefore, multiparasitism in an adult and immunocompetent patient is interesting.

Investigation of Enteric Parasites of Zoo Animals and Zookeepers in Beni-Suef Governorate, Egypt

In this study, the enteric parasites of zoo animals and zookeepers in Beni-Suef governorate, Egypt were investigated. Fecal samples from thirteen animal species were examined by floatation and formol ether sedimentation techniques. Zoo animals were classified into non-human primates, carnivores and herbivorous animals. The examination of non-human primates revealed the presence of Trichuris trichura eggs, Giardia intestinals and Entamoeba histolytica cysts. In carnivores, Toxoascaris leonina eggs and Isospora felis oocysts were the most predominantfindings. In herbivore wild animals, gastrointestinal nematode (GIT) eggs and Eimeria species oocysts were present. Larval identification by fecal culture of (GIT) eggs demonstrated the presence of Haemonchus contortus and Strongyloid papillosus larvae. Examination of zookeepers and one lab worker revealed the presence of Giardia intestinals and Entamoeba histolytica cysts. In conclusion, infection with Giardia intestinals and Entamoeba histolytica in both of human and nonhumanprimates suggests the zoonotic transmission in the zoo.

Blastocystis infection in Malaysia: Evidence of waterborne and human-to-human transmissions among the Proto-Malay, Negrito and Senoi tribes of Orang Asli

BackgroundBlastocystis has been described as the most common intestinal parasite in humans and has an increased impact on public health. However, the transmission of this parasite has not been conclusively determined.MethodsTo contribute to a better comprehension of the epidemiology of this infection, a cross-sectional survey aimed at providing the first documented data on the prevalence and risk factors associated with Blastocystis infection was carried out among three Orang Asli tribes (Proto-Malay, Negrito and Senoi) in selected villages at Negeri Sembilan, Perak and Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia. Faecal samples were examined by formalin-ether sedimentation and trichrome staining techniques.ResultsOf 500 individuals, 20.4% (102) were detected positive for Blastocystis; 13.3% (20/150) of Proto-Malays, 21.6% (30/139) of Negritos and 24.7% (52/211) of Senois were positive for Blastocystis, respectively. The positive cases showed a decrease with increasing age and most of the positive cases were observed in individuals less than 15 years old. Multivariate analysis confirmed that drinking untreated water and the presence of other family members infected with Blastocystis were significant risk factors of infection among the three tribes and overall population studied.ConclusionEssentially, the findings highlighted that Blastocystis infection is prevalent among Orang Asli communities in Malaysia. Further studies using molecular approaches to distinguish the subtype of Blastocystis is needed. The present study also revealed that this infection may be transmitted through waterborne and human-to-human contact. Therefore, interventions with the provision of clean water supply for the communities and health education especially to the parents are urgently required.

The occurrence of zoonotic parasites in rural dog populations from northern Portugal

A survey of intestinal parasites in dogs was carried out in a rural region around Cantanhede, in northern Portugal, where 301 dog faecal samples were collected from small-ruminant farms. Saturated salt flotation and formol-ether sedimentation techniques were used. An enquiry was conducted in 234 farms and a risk factor evaluation for zoonotic helminths was determined among the 195 farmers who owned dogs. The overall parasite prevalence in faecal samples of dogs was 58.8%, with specific prevalences for Ancylostomidae being 40.9% followed by species of Trichuris (29.9%), Toxocara (8%), Isospora (4%), Capillaria (0.7%) and Spirometra (0.3%). Taeniidae eggs were present in five samples (1.7%) which were analysed with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique and revealed to be from Taenia sp., and not Echinococcus granulosus. This rural region has a traditional small-farm system, in which farm products are mainly for in-house consumption and home slaughtering is a current practice (57%). Analysis showed home slaughtering to be a statistically significant risk factor for the presence of Ancylostomidae (P= 0.007) and Toxocara sp. (P= 0.049). Owning cattle was found to be a significant risk factor for Taenia sp. (P= 0.031).

Towards an effective control programme of soil-transmitted helminth infections among Orang Asli in rural Malaysia. Part 1: Prevalence and associated key factors

BackgroundDespite the continuous efforts to improve the quality of life of Orang Asli (Aborigines) communities, these communities are still plagued with a wide range of health problems including parasitic infections. The first part of this study aimed at determining the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections and identifying their associated factors among rural Orang Asli children.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out among 484 Orang Asli children aged ≤ 15 years (235 females and 249 males) belonging to 215 households from 13 villages in Lipis district, Pahang, Malaysia. Faecal samples were collected and examined by using formalin-ether sedimentation, Kato Katz and Harada Mori techniques. Demographic, socioeconomic, environmental and behavioural information were collected by using a pre-tested questionnaire.ResultsOverall, 78.1% of the children were found to be infected with one or more STH species. The prevalence of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections were 71.7%, 37.4% and 17.6%, respectively. Almost all, three quarters and one fifth of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections, respectively, were of moderate-to-heavy intensities. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age of ≥ 6 years (school-age), using unsafe water supply as a source for drinking water, absence of a toilet in the house, large family size (≥ 7 members), not washing hands before eating, and not washing hands after defecation were the key factors significantly associated with STH among these children.ConclusionThis study reveals an alarmingly high prevalence of STH among Orang Asli children and clearly brings out an urgent need to implement school-based de-worming programmes and other control measures like providing a proper sanitation, as well as a treated drinking water supply and proper health education regarding good personal hygiene practices. Such an integrated control program will help significantly in reducing the prevalence and intensity of STH in Orang Asli communities.

Evaluation of formalin-ether sedimentation and trichrome staining techniques: Its effectiveness in detecting Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii in stool samples

This study was conducted to evaluate two routinely microscopic diagnostic methods in comparison with single-round PCR assay as the reference technique to detect Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii. Examination was performed on 500 stool samples obtained from Orang Asli communities in different states of Malaysia using formalin-ether sedimentation, trichrome staining and single-round PCR techniques. Ninety-three stool samples were detected E. histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii positive by routine microscopy, while single-round PCR detected 106 positive samples. Additional positives detected by PCR assay were eventually confirmed to be negative by both microscopic techniques. Detection rate of E. histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii was highest in combination techniques (18.6%), followed by trichrome staining (13.4%) and formalin-ether sedimentation (11.2%) techniques. Single-round PCR detected 21.2% of the stool samples. The sensitivity and specificity of formalin-ether sedimentation and trichrome staining techniques compared to the reference technique were 31.1% (95% CI: 29.0–36.0) and 94.2% (95% CI: 89.8–98.9), and 53.8% (95% CI: 46.0–76.2) and 97.5% (95% CI: 92.8–99.1), respectively. However, the sensitivity [59.4% (95% CI: 48.9–78.5)] of the method increased when both techniques were performed together, but the specificity decreased to 92.4% (95% CI: 81.0–98.0). The agreement between the reference technique, trichrome staining and combination techniques were statistically significant by Kappa statistics (trichrome staining: K=0.592, p<0.05; combination techniques: K=0.543, p<0.05). Hence, the combination technique is recommended to be used as a screening method in the diagnosis of E. histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii infections either for clinical or epidemiological study.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Clonorchiasis among the Populations Served by Primary Healthcare Posts along Five Major Rivers in South Korea

ObjectivesClonorchiasis is an infectious disease caused by the Chinese liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and risk factors of clonorchiasis among the populations served by primary healthcare posts along five major rivers in South Korea. MethodsForty primary healthcare posts that are located less than 5 km from one of the five rivers were selected from 26 counties. For the purpose of the survey, community health practitioners selected the nearest villages from the riversides in their own catchment area. From January to May 2009, a total of 2788 stool samples were collected and examined using the formalin–ether sedimentation technique. Village inhabitants were also interviewed by means of questionnaires in order to obtain information on potential risk factors. ResultsThe prevalence rates of clonorchiasis at various river basins were as follows: Seomjin River, 21.3%; Nakdong River, 13.5%; Geum River, 9.2%; Han River, 7.6%; and Yeongsan River, 4.9%. The total number of people infected with C. sinensis was 329 (11.3%). By gender, 14.3% of males and 7.6% of females were infected. In case of both males and females, the prevalence rate was highest in those in their 40s. Consumption of raw freshwater fish was confirmed as a risk factor based on a logistic regression analysis. ConclusionThe present findings suggest that clonorchiasis is still highly prevalent among the inhabitants of riverside areas in southern Korea, and, accordingly, it is necessary to implement a systematic control program in the endemic areas.

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii Infection among Three Orang Asli Ethnic Groups in Malaysia

Background Entamoeba histolytica/Entamoeba dispar/Entamoeba moshkovskii infection is still prevalent in rural Malaysia especially among Orang Asli communities. Currently, information on prevalence of this infection among different ethnic groups of Orang Asli is unavailable in Malaysia. To contribute to a better comprehension of the epidemiology of this infection, a cross-sectional study aimed at providing the first documented data on the prevalence and risk factors associated with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii infection was carried out among three Orang Asli ethnic groups (Proto-Malay, Negrito, and Senoi) in selected villages in Negeri Sembilan, Perak, and Pahang states, Malaysia.Methods/FindingsFaecal samples were examined by formalin-ether sedimentation and trichrome staining techniques. Of 500 individuals, 8.7% (13/150) of Proto-Malay, 29.5% (41/139) of Negrito, and 18.5% (39/211) of Senoi were positive for E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii, respectively. The prevalence of this infection showed an age-dependency relationship, with higher rates observed among those aged less than 15 years in all ethnic groups studied. Multivariate analysis confirmed that not washing hands after playing with soils or gardening and presence of other family members infected with E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii were significant risk factors of infection among all ethnic groups. However, eating with hands, the consumption of raw vegetables, and close contact with domestic animals were identified as significant risk factors in Senoi.ConclusionsEssentially, the findings highlighted that E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii parasites are still prevalent in Malaysia. Further studies using molecular approaches to distinguish the morphologically identical species of pathogenic, E. histolytica from the non-pathogenic, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii are needed. The establishment of such data will be beneficial for the public health authorities in the planning and implementation of specific prevention and control strategies of this infection in different Orang Asli ethnic groups in Malaysia.

First molecular identification of Entamoeba moshkovskii in Malaysia

Entamoeba moshkovskii and Entamoeba dispar are microscopically indistinguishable from the pathogenic species Entamoeba histolytica. Although sporadic cases of human infection with E. moshkovskii have been reported, the amoeba is still considered primarily as a free-living amoeba. A cross-sectional study was carried out among Orang Asli communities in 3 different states of Peninsular Malaysia. Fecal samples were examined by formalin-ether sedimentation and trichrome staining techniques and then single-round PCR assay was used to detect E. moshkovskii. Out of 500 fecal samples examined microscopically, 93 (18·6%) samples were positive for E. histolytica/E. dispar/E. moshkovskii complex cysts and/or trophozoites. PCR products were detected in 106 fecal samples. E. moshkovskii isolates were detected in 13 (12·3%) fecal samples. Of the 13 E. moshkovskii-positive samples, 5 were of single isolation of E. moshkovskii, 6 were also positive for E. dispar, and only 2 samples were positive for E. dispar and E. histolytica. Moreover, 3 E. moshkovskii-positive samples were collected from symptomatic individuals while the remaining 10 samples were from asymptomatic subjects. This is the first report on the identification of E. moshkovskii in Malaysia. Further studies are needed to confirm the pathogenicity of E. moshkovskii infection and determine the epidemiology among Orang Asli communities in Malaysia.

A Coprological Survey of Protozoan and Nematode Parasites of Free-Ranging Chacma Baboons (Papio ursinus) in the Southwestern Cape, South Africa

This study provides data on gastrointestinal parasite infections in the geographically isolated and locally fragmented Cape Peninsula baboon population and two troops from neighbouring populations in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. We obtained data on parasite diversity and prevalence from 616 faecal samples collected from over 350 individuals in eight troops between July 2006 and May 2008. We processed faecal samples using a modified formalin-ether sedimentation technique and identified nematode eggs and protozoan cysts. We recovered seven nematode genera (Trichuris sp., Oesophagostomum sp., Trichostrongylus sp., Physaloptera sp., Ascaris sp., an unidentified hookworm morphotype, and an unidentified spirurid) and eight protozoan species (Balantidium coli, Entamoeba coli, E. histolytica/dispar, E. chattoni, E. hartmanni, lodamoeba bütschlii, Endolimax nana and Chilomastix mesnili). The nematode and protozoan fauna of the Cape Peninsula baboon population was similar to both neighbouring and geographically distinct chacma baboon populations in South Africa. Parasite prevalence was variable across study sites and seasonality did not appear to have an effect on patterns of infection. The finding of the eggs of an ascarid, possibly Ascaris sp., in the Cape Peninsula baboon population represents the first report of this nematode genus in wild baboons in South Africa.

Patterns and risk factors for helminthiasis in rural children aged under 2 in Bangladesh

Objectives. To obtain knowledge on the burden of infestation with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) in rural children from birth to age 2 years. Methods. Household visits to enrolled children were made twice a week for 2 years, and stool samples were collected once a month. Stools were also collected during diarrhoeal episodes, and when STHs were identified, a single dose of pyrantel pamoate was administered to patients with diarrhoea. All stool samples were examined using the formalin-ether sedimentation technique. Results. About 70% of the children had had STH infestation by 2 years, and approximately 80% of these had STH ova identified on more than one occasion. The mean age at first acquisition was 14 months (standard deviation (SD) 4 months, range 1 - 24 months). Microscopic examination revealed ova of Ascaris lumbricoides (9%), Trichuris trichiura (0.6%), hookworm (0.06%) and mixed infestation (0.4%). In 41 of the 178 children with STH infestation, its first identification was associated with episodes of diarrhoea. Following pyrantel pamoate deworming, 66% of subjects were re-infested after a mean interval of 90 days (SD 79 days). Risk behaviours such as disposal of child faeces and defaecation by adult family members in open spaces and use of common source surface water for washing clothes and utensils were practised by 62%, 83% and 50% of the cohort families, respectively. Bivariate analysis shows that disposal of child faeces in a closed space resulted in a 35% reduction in helminth infestation (odds ratio (OR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.49 - 0.87), use of tube well water in a 48% reduction (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.29 - 0.93, p<0.02) and breastfeeding in a 16% reduction (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.64 - 1.10, p<0.2). Mutivariable analysis adjusted with risk variables shows a 5.06 times higher odds of recognising STH infestation during an episode of diarrhoea (OR 5.06, 95% CI 3.8 - 6.69, p<0.0001). Conclusion. Awareness building programmes and periodic deworming are crucial to prevent acquisition of, re-infestation with and spread of STH.

Prevalence of Clonorchis sinensis Infections Along the Five Major Rivers in Republic of Korea, 2007

ObjectivesThe prevalence of Clonorchis sinensis infection was investigated among residents of the five major river basins, that is, Hangang, Nakdonggang, Seomjingang, Yeongsangang, and Geumgang River basins in Korea. MethodsFrom January to December 2007, a total of 31,268 stool samples were collected from 29 localities and examined by the formalin-ether sedimentation technique. ResultsIntestinal parasite eggs and/or protozoan cysts were detected from 2957 (9.5%) inhabitants. Number of residents harbouring helminth eggs in the faeces was 2542 (8.1%) for C. sinensis, 255 (0.8%) for Heterophyes spp., 36 (0.1%) for Echinostoma spp., 30 (0.1%) for Trichuris trichiura, 8 (0.03%) for Ascaris lumbricoides, 7 (0.02%) for Gymnophalloide seoi, and 50 (0.02%) for Trichostrongylus orientalis. Number of residents harbouring protozoan cysts in the faeces was 133 (1.3%) for Entamoeba spp. and 50 (0.2%) for Giardia lamblia. The positive rates of C. sinensis in Nakdonggang, Seomjingang, Yeongsangang, Geumgang, and Hangang River basins were 12.2%, 9.5%, 3.3%, 3.0%, and 1.0%, respectively. The egg positive rate of C. sinensis was higher in male (10.6%) than in female (6.1%), and the age group of 50s had the highest positive rate (10.4%). ConclusionThe result of this study revealed little decrease in positive rate of C. sinensis compared with the result of southern endemic areas of Korea in 2006.

Helminthic Infections in School Children in Puducherry, South India

Intestinal parasites are widely prevalent in developing countries, probably due to poor sanitation and inadequate personal hygiene. It is estimated that as much as 60% of the world's population is infected with intestinal parasites, which may play a significant role in morbidity due to intestinal infections. This study was designed to estimate the prevalence of helminthic infections among school children in Puducherry, South India. The prevalence of helminthic infections was studied in 1,172 children in public schools in Puducherry (Pondicherry), South India, between March and September 2006. The stools collected were concentrated using the formol-ether sedimentation technique, screened using conventional iodine and saline wet mounts, and examined by direct microscopy. The prevalence of helminthic infection was found to be 34.56% in school children; Ascaris lumbricoides constituted 43.21% of total infections; Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworm), 28.89%; Trichuris trichiura, 10.87%; Hymenolepis nana, 7.66%; Taenia spp., 7.41%; and Enterobius vermicularis, 1.98%. Co-infections were also common; dual infections accounted for 8.40% and multiple infections for 2.47%, respectively, of total infection. The stool samples found to be positive for hookworm ova were further processed for culture using the Harada-Mori culture technique. Sixty-five (55.56%) hookworm ova-positive stools were found to be culture positive. The infection prevalent in school children in this area is Ascariasis.

Intestinal Parasites Infection among Immunocompromised Patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among immunocompromised patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Fecal samples were collected from 136 immunocompromised patients (52 females and 84 males), aged 2 to 69 years. Specimens were fixed with 10% formalin for 30 min (2-3 g fecal(-1)) and then concentrated by a formalin-ether sedimentation technique. Samples were examined as wet saline mounts and in iodine preparation for detection of protozoan oocysts, cysts, helminthic eggs and larvae. Permanent stained smears were performed for intestinal coccidian parasites by the modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique and the modified trichrome stain. Intestinal parasites were detected in 54 (39.7%) most of them (25.7%) were with diarrhea. More specifically the following parasites were detected Cryptosporidium parvum 11(8.1%), Giardia lamblia 9 (6.6%), Cyclospora cayetanensis 8 (5.9%), Blastocystis hominis 7 (5.2%), Entamoeba histolytica 7 (5.2%), Entamoeba coli 5 (3.7%), Strongyloides stercoralis 3 (2.2%), Ascaris lumbricoides 1 (0.7%), Hymenolepis nana 1 (0.7%), Dicrocoelium dendriticum 1 (0.7%) and Hook worm 1 (0.7%). The most common parasite associated with diarrhea in patients, was C. parvum (p < 0.001), followed by G. lamblia, C. cayetanensis and E. histolytica. However, differences between different age groups were statistically non-significant. Similarly, no significant difference in the infection rate were found between male and female patients.