Intestinal Parasitic Infestation Research Articles

Survey of the present health & nutritional status of Shompen tribe of Great Nicobar Island.

Shompens are one of the two mongoloid tribes of Nicobar district. There is little information about their recent health status since the last survey which was conducted in 1998. Hence, a comprehensive health and nutritional survey was conducted in March 2017 to assess the changes. The survey was carried out by a joint team of various organizations including the ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre and Tribal Welfare and Health Department both located in Port Blair. A detailed health and nutrition survey of the Shompen community was planned by deputing a field research team. The survey included demographic data, anthropometric data, clinical examination, screening for the markers of infectious diseases, respiratory pathogens, tuberculosis and haemoglobinopathies. About half of the Shompen adults (both males and females) had a body mass index (BMI) of ≥23. However, Shompen children had a good nutritional status with no child suffering from undernutrition. As per BMI for age, none of the children <5 yr were under-nourished, while in the 5-17 yr group, 12 per cent of children were undernourished. Anaemia prevalence was about 48.3 per cent, with 54 per cent prevalence in females and 43.8 per cent in males. Fungal infection of the skin, acute respiratory infection and abdominal pain were the common morbidities observed. None had active pulmonary tuberculosis. Of 38 Shompens screened for IgG (immunoglobulin G) antibodies, 42.1 and 18.4 per cent were positive for measles and rubella, respectively. Seroprevalence of Leptospira was 35.5 per cent. The prevalence of hypertension was 13.2 per cent, whereas another 28.9 per cent were pre-hypertensive. The population structure of the Shompen is not skewed and under nutrition was not widely prevalent among the children of <5 yr. The other positive observations were the absence of malaria, filariasis and dengue. However, there was natural infection of measles and rubella. Fungal skin infection and intestinal parasitic infestations were widely prevalent. Although cardiovascular risk profile was low, there were signs of emerging risk of over-weight, hypertension and dyslipidaemia. These together with the high prevalence of smokeless tobacco use may have a serious effect on the cardiovascular disease susceptibility of the Shompen population in the future.

CHICKEN AIR SACS AND MESENTERY: A HISTOMORPHOMETRICAL AND IMMUNOLOGICAL STUDY

Fat-associated lymphoid clusters (FALCs) are novel lymphoid tissues that have been reported in the mesenteric and mediastinal fat tissue of mouse and human. It plays role in the progression of respiratory and intestinal inflammation and parasitic infestations. However, their occurrence in the chicken air sacs and mesenteric adipose tissue has not yet been identified. Here we investigated the occurrence and distribution of FALCs in the air sacs (cervical, clavicular, thoracic, and abdominal) and mesenteric adipose tissue of healthy chicken. The latter air sacs and mesentery were immediately harvested after anesthesia and cutting the chicken heads then fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde fixative solution for histopathological examination. The degree of FALCs development among different specimens was measured and statistically analyzed. Our results revealed lymphoid clusters associating with the adipose tissues in mesentery, and air sacs (clavicular, thoracic, and abdominal), but not the cervical one. Interestingly, the thoracic air sacs showed significant higher FALCs size in comparison to that of other air sac types and the mesentery. Our findings suggested other possible immunological role of the air sacs and mesentery that could have impact on the progression of air sacculitis and mesenteritis- associate diseases. However, further investigations are required for clarification of air sacs and mesenteric FALCs in the progressions of respiratory and digestive tract diseases.

Association Between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Anemia Among Adult Dyspeptic Patients Attending Kiryandongo General Hospital, Uganda.

To determine the prevalence of anemia and its association with Helicobacter pylori infection among adult dyspeptic patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 283 dyspeptic patients at Kiryandongo General Hospital, in Uganda. A structured questionnaire was administered to capture demographic and clinical characteristics of study participants. Four milliliters of blood were then collected into an EDTA vacutainer for Complete Blood Count (CBC) and analyzed using HUMA COUNT 30TS, and peripheral blood smears were made and stained using Giemsa stain. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin levels <12g/dl in females and <13g/dl in men according to the World Health Organization (WHO).Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) stool antigen test was performed using Whole power H. pylori Ag rapid test device, and saline stool preparation was examined for intestinal parasites. Chi-squared test and Logistic regression were performed to determine association, and a p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection was 42.4% (120/283). The prevalence of anemia among H. pylori-infected patients was 25.8% (31/120) and 15.3% (25/163) among H. pylori-negative counterparts. H. pylori infection was significantly associated with anemia (p-value 0.042), age (p-value 0.02, 0.009), water sources (p-value 0.0049,) and intestinal parasitic infestation (p-value 0.02), respectively. This study has shown that the prevalence of H. pylori infection and anemia is high among dyspeptic patients at Kiryandongo General Hospital. H. pylori infection was found associated with anemia, age, water sources, and intestinal parasitic infestation. Routine screening of anemia in H. pylori-infected individuals and further studies to explore the relationship between anemia and H. pylori disease is highly recommended.

Prevalence and Sensitization and Intestinal Parasitic Infestation of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis in School Children of Kinshasa

Prevalence and Sensitization and Intestinal Parasitic Infestation of Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis in School Children of Kinshasa

Multiplex PCR for detection of intestinal parasites in patients at Wasit province

Intestinal parasitic infestation still represents an economic and public health problem in the world particularly in the developing countries including the Middle East .To estimate the current prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among people living in Wasit province/ middle of Iraq .100 fecal samples were collected from males and females of different ages attending AL-Karama Teaching Hospital suffering of gastroenteritis symptoms during the period from August to November 202, only 45 stool sample were positive for intestinal parasite. The total infectivity rate by intestinal parasites was (45%).This study indicated high occurrence of gastro-intestinal parasites in Wasit province, Iraq. The overall infection rate by intestinal protozoa was significantly higher than intestinal helminth infection. In the present study prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was Entamoeba histolytica 15(33.3%). the percent of the infection among males were 9(20%) while the females were 6(13.3%). According the residence in urban areas were reported 5( 11.1%) and rural areas were 10(22.2%). The Co-infection appears in 19 samples with percent of infection (42.2%) in males infection were predominance 11(24.4%) than the females 8(17.7%). According to the residence urban areas were reported 7 (15.5%) and rural areas were 12(26.6%).

PREVALENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFESTATIONS IN PATIENTS ATTENDING A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF CENTRAL INDIA

Objectives: The objectives of the study were to find out the prevalence and spectrum of intestinal parasitic infestations among the patients attending the associated hospital with complaints of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Methods: A total of 117 stool samples were collected and screened for intestinal parasitic infection. Plastic containers with identification numbers were given to the patients, and information regarding name, age, sex, ward, and findings of stool routine microscopy were recorded. All samples were examined macroscopically for appearance, color, and the presence of blood and mucus then analyzed using direct microscopy for the presence of intestinal parasites. Results: It was found that intestinal parasitic infections were mainly attributed to Entamoeba histolytica, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Giardia lamblia which are pretty prevalent in the region of the study. Conclusion: It was found that intestinal parasitic infections were mainly attributed to E. histolytica, A. lumbricoides, and G. lamblia which are pretty prevalent in the region of the study.

Bruxism in children: Etiological causes, correlation with intestinal parasitic infestations, diagnosis and treatment criteria

Bruxism is defined as a repetitive activity of the masticatory muscles, characterized by teeth clenching or gnashing and/or tapping and rocking. The etiology is multifactorial: mainly central (neuropathic disorder and anxiety) but also genetic and local (posture, mouth breathing). In children, bruxism is very frequent and is not always considered pathological. Several factors have been considered in the etiology of bruxism in children, among which infestations by intestinal parasites, suggested by some authors. It may be one of several symptoms of general pathology. Diagnosis is based mainly on the history and examination of tooth wear and its evolution over time (photos and dental casts). Severity criteria are based on the intensity (number of dental attrition facets) as well as on the context found in the child: anxiety, ventilation problems, and fragility of dental structures. Bruxism management is multidisciplinary and depends on the etiological diagnosis. The objective of this article is to highlight the correlation between bruxism and intestinal parasites and to identify the etiologies, the diagnostic criteria, and the therapeutic scheme of bruxism in children. Publications and research on this subject are few and not consensual. The therapeutic course of action is not clearly defined and the research concerning them remains experimental.

Bruxism in children: Etiological causes, correlation with intestinal parasitic infestations, diagnosis and treatment criteria

Bruxism in children: Etiological causes, correlation with intestinal parasitic infestations, diagnosis and treatment criteria

Frequency of Intestinal Parasitic Infestation among Children from Tertiary Care Center in Rural Sindh

Aims: To determine the frequency of parasitic infestation among children in our setup.&#x0D; Study Design: Observational study&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the department of Pediatric Medicine and Department of Pathology, Suleman Roshan Medical College and Hospital, Tando Adam, Pakistan from 17th October 2020 to 30th May 2021.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 2412 consecutive patients aged between 5 to 12 years, who attended the outpatient department for the complain of abdominal pain, diarrhea or dysentery, the clinically anemic cases, patients having history of occult blood (black stools) were included in the study. The demographic and clinical details of all the cases were collected on a structured proforma designed for the study. All the patients were investigated for stool examination. The patients already having negative stool report for parasite were excluded from the study. Microscopic examination of the fecal smear in normal saline was performed for the detection of any helminth or protozoal infection. The data collected was statistically analyzed and the results were tabulated.&#x0D; Results: 1316 (54.6%) samples were found positive for helminth or protozoal infection, and 1490 parasites were detected from a total of 2412 stool specimens collected and analyzed. Majority of the children were female 1344 (55.7%). The highest parasitosis (70.3%) was more common among 9-10 years age group. Abdominal pain was the main presenting complaint. The Entamoeba histolytica was most common protozoa in both male and female (24.6%), while helminthic infection like Ascaris lumbricoides was most common parasite detected in 47.2% of samples but more prevalent in male cases.&#x0D; Conclusion: The present study reveals a high frequency of parasitosis in our setup. Entamoeba histolytica was the commonest protozoa and Ascaris lumbricoides was the most frequent helminthic infection, abdominal pain being the main presenting complaint.

PREVALENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFESTATION AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTOR IN RURAL AREAS CHILDREN OF VARANASI DISTRICT, UTTAR PRADESH

Intestinal parasitic infection is a major cause of morbidity among young children in India, due to low socioeconomic status and poor personal hygiene practices. Intestinal parasitic infestations are majorly challenged by the rural areas school children of Varanasi district. Considering the fact, the current study was conducted among rural areas school children from 06-16 years of age, with an aim to know the prevalence of Intestinal worm infestation. The study was conducted on 246 school children's fecal specimens. The collected specimens were examined with the Saline wet mount and Iodine wet mount method. Out of the total studied subjects, the prevalence of Intestinal worm infestation was found to be 17%. In our study, Protozoan infections are 8% commonly found followed by Helminthic infection (Ascaris lumbricoides 4%, Hookworm 3%, H. nana 2%,) in the study participants. Worm infestation association was found to be statistically signicant and to rule out the status of nutrition and hygiene practices. Anemia is a major health issue in children of growing age in our country which causes high morbidity and mortality rate. Besides this helminthic infection in children is also a common problem due to unhygienic habitat. Hence the policy of iron and folic acid supplementation and the anti-helminthic drug should be administered globally as recommended by WHO may be practically enforced besides health and hygiene education.

Prevalence of Taenia solium taenaisis in Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu (India): A cross-sectional study

Background: Taenia solium infections in humans include the infection by the adult tapeworm, these infections are of public health concern and are among the most important afflictions of humans who live in areas of poverty in the developing world and least developed countries. T. solium, a zoonotic disease, transmitted between pigs and humans and among humans, is common in developing countries. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to estimate the detection rate of T. solium taeniasis among patients and random community screening with an indication of intestinal parasitic infection by routine stool examination. Materials and Methods: Collection of stool samples from community and patients. Those who were willing, samples were screened for the cysts/ova/egg by direct microscopic examination by saline, iodine, concentration technique, and modified acid fast staining, were performed to differentiate species of T. solium and Taenia saginata. Results: Overall samples were 2030, out of which 870 stool samples were from community field screening 585 (28.81%) were positive. 1160 from tertiary care center, 668 (32.90%) were positive gave a total prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection of 61.72%. The prevalence of T. solium taeniasis was 194 (9.55%) out of which 92 (4.53%) were from community and 102 (5.02%) were from tertiary care center. Conclusion: The high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestation might be due to the poor sanitary, contaminated water, and lack of education that is prevalent in the studied region as in other pockets in rural India. Our study showed the usefulness of the Ziehl-Neelsen modified acid-fast stain for identification of Taenia species.

Rare presentations of ocular enterobiasis - Case reports.

Enterobius vermicularis, also known as pinworm or threadworm, is a large intestinal nematode which has a high prevalence among children and peripubertal age in our country. Transmission usually occurs by autoinfection like finger contamination of the embryonated eggs deposited by the gravid female worm on the perianal and perineal region. Globally, only a few reports are there regarding the isolation of the parasite from extra-intestinal sites. These are two rare case reports of ocular enterobiasis. The first case was a middle-aged female and the second one was a 14-year-old girl, both of whom were referred from other tertiary care hospitals to Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine and who presented with discharge of live motile worms from their eyes (conjunctiva). In both the cases, identification was done by saline wet mount and direct microscopy of a gravid female worm. Plano-convex embryonated eggs were also observed. The oval embryonated eggs, plano-convex in shape, and the gravid female, with its cervical alae near the anterior end and straight thin pointed tail, were identified under the microscope. Although E. vermicularis is a very common large intestinal parasitic infestation of children and adolescents, it can also rarely be isolated from unusual sites, which should be taken into account for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Intestinal Parasitosis among Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Tuberculosis Infected Patients from Dharan, Nepal

Intestinal parasitic infestation reflects a health threat with patients living with HIV &amp; Tu-berculosis (TB). Parasitic infections caused by protozoa and helminths are the most com-mon infections worldwide. The present study was done to find out the frequency of intes-tinal parasitosis among HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) patients of Dharan total of 53 samples (&gt;15 years) from HIV seropositive patients and 28 samples (&gt;20years) from TB patients were collected in a clean, dry and capped fitted container and subjected to macroscopic and microscopic examination for ova, cyst, adult parasites and or segments of parasites. Stool samples were fixed in a 10% formalin-ether solution. Sedimentation technique, with modified acid-fast (Ziehl-Neelsen) staining method, was performed for opportunistic in-testinal parasites in both patients. Multi-parasitic infection was noted in the study. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was found to be 54 (66.67%). This result had shown that the participation of male patients was comparatively higher than female pa-tients. Out of 81 stool samples, 15 (27.78%) G. lamblia, 12(22.22%) E. histolytica, 12 (22.22%) Cryptosporidium parvum, 6 (11.11%), Isospora belli 4 (7.40%) Microspridium, 1(1.85%) Blastocystis hominis, 2(3.70%) and Taenia spp, 2(3.70%). To prevent this infec-tion appropriate health education should be given to the patients concerning disease trans-mission, antiparasitic therapy, personal hygiene, and safe drinking water.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infestations among Children in a Tertiary Care Centre

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infestations are more common in developing countries and an important cause of morbidity in pediatric age group. It causes abdominal pain, diarrhoea, anemia, impaired cognitive function, growth retardation and poor academic performance among school going children.&#x0D; Objectives: To analyze age, gender and most common parasitic infestations among children in a tertiary care hospital in south India.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Stool samples of pediatric patients in a tertiary care hospital is analysed for a period of one year for detection of prevalence of parasitic infestations.&#x0D; Results: In our study, 115 stool samples were analysed and prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was found to be 7.82% (9/115).There were five different parasites encountered. The most common parasite identified was Giardia lamblia(4/9)(44.44%) followed by Entamoeba histolytica(2/9)(22.22%), Ascarislumbricoides(1/9)(11.11%), Trichuris trichiura(1/9)(11.11%), and Hymenolepis nana(1/9)(11.11%).&#x0D; Conclusion: Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica were found to be the most common organism in our study. Awareness about proper hygiene, sanitation and prophylactic anti-protozoal medications is important to prevent the occurrence and complications of intestinal parasitic infestations.

Intestinal Parasite Infestation in HIV Infected Patients in Tertiary Care Center

Every year, the number of people living with HIV rises as a consequence of advanced infections and the positive effects of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Gastrointestinal involvement is common, with 90% of patients seeking treatment for gastrointestinal problems as their HIV infection progresses. Nonetheless, identifying and characterization of infectious agents is important for patient management by excluding a clinical diagnosis and determining appropriate treatment, as well as determining public healthcare policy for true pathogen prevalence and yielding epidemiological risk factors for specific infections. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of symptomatic or asymptomatic intestinal parasitic infection among HIV or AIDS patients. For this study with 80 HIV seropositive patients being recruited from various wards and the Integrated Counseling and Testing Center (ICTC) affiliated to the microbiology department. Patients with acute and chronic diarrhea with abdominal disorder were taken as symptomatic whereas patients without these clinical complaints and who came for routine investigations were taken as asymptomatic. Firstly stool samples were analyzed by macroscopically for the presence of mucus, blood, larvae, segments of tapeworm and adult worms. The consistencies of stool were also recorded such as formed, watery or soft or loose with odor and color. It was examined microscopically after macroscopically for protozoan cysts and trophozoites, helminthic ova and larvae, as wet mount preparation by saline and iodine preparation as well as formal ether concentrated. For the detection of intestinal coccidian parasites, smears were prepared from stool samples and a modified Ziel-Nelseen (MZN) stain was also performed. Stool samples with the detection of parasites were informed for treatment. The prevalence of intestinal parasite was 23.75% with asymptomatic and symptomatic groups having a prevalence of 16.98% and 37.04% respectively. Out of total patients, 56.25% were male and 43.75% were female. Among the male patients, 11 (13.75%) were positive for an intestinal parasitic infection and 8 (10%) were positive among females. The age distribution data revealed that the age group 21-40 years old had the highest number of intestinal parasites, followed by 41-60, 61-80, and 0-20 years old. The most intestinal parasites were found in the young and middle-aged patients, according to this study. Different parasites were identified as Entamoeba histolytica, Taenia species, Ascaris lumbricoides, Cryptosporidium parvum and Isospora with one protozoan, two coccidian parasites and two helminthes. The most common parasite was Taenia species 6 (7.5%) followed by Entamoeba histolytica 5 (6.3%) and Cryptosporidium parvum 5 (6.3%). Intestinal parasitic infection is not uncommon in HIV seropositive patients. This study underscores the need for early diagnosis and treatment of these intestinal parasites in both symptomatic and asymptomatic HIV patients.

PREVALENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFECTIONS AMONG SCHOOL GOING CHILDREN BELOW 12 YEARS OF AGE IN KAMRUP METRO, ASSAM.

BACKGROUND: Intestinal parasitic infections constitute global health problems in various developing countries. They are endemic especially in tropical and subtropical countries. Hot and humid climate, environmental and sociocultural factors enhance parasitic transmission. Children are the prime victims of intestinal parasitism that affects their physical development, school attendance and learning ability. OBJECTIVE: The study was aimed to determine the prevalence of Intestinal parasitic infection among the school going children between 5-12 years of age in certain slum areas of Guwahati city of Kamrup Metro district of Assam. METHODS: A community based cross sectional study carried out between June, 2017 to May, 2018 at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital in the Department of Microbiology. Study group consisted of 170 school going children below 12 years of age. Stool samples collected aseptically were examined macroscopically and microscopically using standard Microbiological methods for presence of Intestinal parasites. RESULTS: Out of 170 school going children, 116 (68.2%) were found positive for Intestinal parasitic infestations. The most predominant Intestinal helminthes were Ascaris lumbricoides (66.4%) follwed by Trichuris trichiura (29.3%), hookworms (5.1%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.9%) and Isospora belli (22.4%). CONCLUSION: The study reveals that the prevalence of Intestinal parasitic infection among school going children below 12 years of age in the slum areas of Assam is very high. Hence, it is utmost necessary to pay more attention to improve the sanitation, personal hygiene and implementation of health education of the parents for prevention of these parasitic infections.

PARASITES IN HISTOPATHOLOGY: A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL EXPERIENCE

Background: Parasitic infections are a major public health problem worldwide with one-quarter ofthe world’s population is suffering from it. Intestinal and extraintestinal parasitic infestations arerising in developing countries. There is a raise in the immunocompromised state in which tissueparasitic infestations are increasing which necessitates this type of study. Method: A retrospectivedescriptive study with data collected from histopathology register from January 2018 to December2020, all cases diagnosed as parasitic infestation with age, gender, location and histopathologicalevaluation with tissue response was analysed. Results: In the present study over 3 years 11parasitic infestations were identified. About 3(27.3%) cases of hydatid cyst, 5(45.5%) cases ofEnterobius vermicularis, 2 (18.2%) cases of cysticercosis and 1(9%) case of hard tick was identified.The most common age group affected was &lt;25 years of age (54.5%). The most common parasitefound is Enterobius vermicularis in our study. Conclusion: A careful histopathological examinationto identify parasitic infestations in tissue sections will help to decrease morbidity and mortality byproviding specific treatment to the patient.

High prevalence of intestinal parasite infestations among stunted and control children aged 2 to 5 years old in two neighborhoods of Antananarivo, Madagascar.

This study aimed to compare the prevalence of intestinal parasite infestations (IPIs) in stunted children, compared to control children, in Ankasina and Andranomanalina Isotry (two disadvantaged neighborhoods of Antananarivo, Madagascar), to characterize associated risk factors and to compare IPI detection by real-time PCR and standard microscopy techniques. Fecal samples were collected from a total of 410 children (171 stunted and 239 control) aged 2-5 years. A single stool sample per subject was examined by simple merthiolate-iodine-formaldehyde (MIF), Kato-Katz smear and real-time PCR techniques. A total of 96.3% of the children were infested with at least one intestinal parasite. The most prevalent parasites were Giardia intestinalis (79.5%), Ascaris lumbricoides (68.3%) and Trichuris trichiura (68.0%). For all parasites studied, real-time PCR showed higher detection rates compared to microscopy (G. intestinalis [77.6% (n = 318) versus 20.9% (n = 86)], Entamoeba histolytica [15.8% (n = 65) versus 1.9% (n = 8)] and A. lumbricoides [64.1% (n = 263) versus 50.7% (n = 208)]). Among the different variables assessed in the study, age of 4 to 5 years (AOR = 4.61; 95% CI, (1.35-15.77)) and primary and secondary educational level of the mother (AOR = 12.59; 95% CI, (2.76-57.47); AOR = 9.17; 95% CI, (2.12-39.71), respectively) were significantly associated with IPIs. Children drinking untreated water was associated with infestation with G. intestinalis (AOR = 1.85; 95% CI, (1.1-3.09)) and E. histolytica (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI, (1.07-3.38)). E. histolytica was also associated with moderately stunted children (AOR = 0.37; 95% CI, 0.2-0.71). Similarly, children aged between 4 and 5 years (AOR = 3.2; 95% CI (2.04-5.01)) and living on noncemented soil types (AOR = 1.85; 95% CI, (1.18-2.09)) were associated with T. trichiura infestation. The prevalence of IPIs is substantial in the studied areas in both stunted and control children, despite the large-scale drug administration of antiparasitic drugs in the country. This high prevalence of IPIs warrants further investigation. Improved health education, environmental sanitation and quality of water sources should be provided.

Epidemiological determinants of parasitic infestation among 6-12 years old children in peri-urban area of Rohtak, Haryana, India

Background: Intestinal parasitic infestation is one of the commonest causes of chronic infection in humans in developing countries and is responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality. Despite the improved socio-economic conditions and elevated living standards, surprisingly it is still a public health problem even in developed countries, like the United States. Objectives of the study were to determine the association of factors associated with parasitic infestation among children of 6-12 years age.Methods: A cross sectional survey approach was adopted to collect the data and 200 children (6-12 years) and their parents were finally included as per research criteria. Data was collected by interviewing the parents and children using structured interview schedule. Microscopic examinations of stool samples were also done for detection of ova and cysts of intestinal parasites.Results: Out of 200 study subjects 65 (32.5%) were found to be positive for parasitic infestation namely Giardia lamblia (18.0%) E. histolytica (8.5%), Taenia (4.5%) and H. nana (1.5%). Majority of parasitic infestation i.e. (58.7%) was found among the children of illiterate mothers, (44.6%) in case of joint families and (44.8%) belonging to families having a monthly income less than Rs. 5,000.Conclusions: In this study, it was found that mother’s education, family income, type of family are significantly associated factors with parasitic infestation. The present study opens an area for the further planning such as improving the low socio-economic status, regular deworming of the children, promotion of usages of toilets and up gradation of water supply system as preventive measures in this setting.

The Possible Relation between Pityriasis Alba and Intestinal Parasitic Infestation Among Children in Tikrit City, A Case Control Study

Background: There is a solid belief stated that the appearance of hypopigmented patches on childrenface is a sign of their helminthic or parasitic intestinal infestation despite the constant health educationabout the absence of such relation. Pityriasis Alba (PA) is common benign skin lesion characterized byfine scaly hypopigmented patches (HP) or macules (1) mostly in the face and upper body parts. (2-4) PAmay be atopic dermatitis related or endemic PA. PA occurs mostly in 3-16 years old children and accountsof 5% of pediatric population worldwide. Prevalence rate in Iraq is high (38.2%). No specific cause ofPA has been identified. Diagnosis of PA depends on the clinical picture and treatment may implicatesunscreen and topical corticosteroids despite its self-limiting privilege. Helminthiasis (worm infestation)is the hosting of parasitic worms after invading humans and other animals necessarily to complete theirlifecycle. Enterobius vermicularis is the most common helminthic intestinal infestation among children inIraq. The main complaint of helminthiasis is the perianal itching, especially at bed time. The study aims todetermine the relation of intestinal helminths with PA. Study Design: This prospective and a case-controlstudy had consisted of 43 males (53.5%) and females (46.5%) children of 5-15 years of age presented withHP. Results and Discussion: 4 (9.3%) cases presented with Enterobius vermicularis given antihelminthicdrugs and had their infestation eradicated completely after a week. 39 (90.7%) children presented with noinfestation, regarded as control group, and so given placebo treatment. Number and size of HP varied afterthe 6 weeks of treatment. Although cases shown more numerous (6.0 ± 2.9) HP and larger size (120.0 ± 72.2)than control group (4.9 ± 3.6 and 90.0 ± 58.3 respectively), but the difference was not significant for bothgroups (cases and control) and between them for both HP number and sizes (p>0.6). Conclusion: There isno enough prove of the relationship between children intestinal parasitic infestation and the appearance ofhypopigmented patches.