Intestinal Protozoan Infections Research Articles

Screening and Education of Intestinal Protozoa Infection in Elementary School-Age Children, Penjaringan District, North Jakarta

Screening and Education of Intestinal Protozoa Infection in Elementary School-Age Children, Penjaringan District, North Jakarta

Retrospective Evaluation of Intestinal Protozoa Parasites in Patients Presenting to Kafkas University Health Research and Application Hospital Between 2019-2022.

This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the prevalence of protozoan parasites in stool samples collected from patients presenting with various gastrointestinal complaints to the Medical Parasitology Laboratory of Kafkas University Research and Application Hospital between 2019 and 2022. Stool samples were initially examined using the native-Lugol method for the detection of protozoan parasites, followed by the formol-ethyl acetate sedimentation method, Giemsa, and carbol fuchsin staining methods. Specific immunochromatographic card tests were used for the diagnosis of Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia intestinalis. Of the 2.267 stool samples examined over the four-year period from January 2019 to December 2022, 7.63% were found to contain one or more protozoan parasites. Among these parasites, Entamoeba histolytica was detected at the highest rate of 4.06%. The other parasite species were identified as follows: Blastocystis spp. 1.15%, Entamoeba spp. and Entamoeba coli each 0.52%, Giardia intestinalis 0.48%, Endolimax nana 0.17%, and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 0.08%. This study indicates that despite a decrease in the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections in the Kars region, these infections remain a significant public health issue. Therefore, improvements in hygiene and sanitation conditions, increased public health education, and the widespread implementation of early diagnosis and treatment methods are necessary. Special measures should be taken to protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and the elderly.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Schoolchildren in Katsina Metropolis, Katsina State, Nigeria

Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) are significant causes of morbidity, particularly among school-aged children. This cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections among schoolchildren in Katsina Metropolis, Katsina State, Nigeria. A total of 420 schoolchildren from five randomly selected primary schools were enrolled for the study. Socio-demographic data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to both the children and their parents. Stool samples were analyzed using the Kato-Katz and direct wet-mount techniques to identify the presence of parasitic infections. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was found to be 33.6%. The most prevalent parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides, detected in 28.0% of the children, and followed by Giardia lamblia (23.3%), Hookworm (22.8%), Entamoeba coli (19.5%), and Trichuris trichiura (6.6%). The prevalence was higher in males (37.1%) compared to females (30.1%). Children aged 6-9 years showed a significantly higher prevalence (38.0%) than those aged ≥10 years (30.0%) (P<0.05). The key risk factors identified included family size, dietary habits, lack of toilet facilities, drinking water sources and the educational status of parents. The study indicates that STHs and intestinal protozoa infections remain prevalent among schoolchildren in Katsina Metropolis, posing a substantial public health challenge. Addressing this issue requires increased public awareness, improved sanitation in schools, and the implementation of school-based deworming programs.

Wastewater-based intestinal protozoa monitoring in Shanghai, China.

Intestinal protozoa Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi have been implicated in serious waterborne outbreaks worldwide. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is a promising approach for evaluating the disease prevalence in a catchment population in that it monitors the contamination level of the intestinal pathogens in wastewater. We collected 48 urban wastewater samples (24 from influents and 24 from effluents) from the Yangpu Wastewater Treatment Plant (YPWTP) in Shanghai, China. We identified Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, and E. bieneusi by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. Cryptosporidium hominis and subtype IdA14 were identified in two samples by analyzing the sequences of small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) and 60-kDa glycoprotein (gp60) genes, respectively. The G. duodenalis sub-assemblage AII (n = 8) and assemblage C (n = 4) in 12 samples were determined by analyzing triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) gene sequences. The E. bieneusi genotype A was identified in one sample by analyzing the sequence of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the rRNA gene. These findings suggest that improving wastewater treatment and monitoring the virility of pathogens in effluents is critical. We observed similar prevalence and genotypes/subtypes of the three intestinal protozoa in our wastewater samples as those reported in previous studies, providing evidence that WBE can be used as an effective epidemic management tool.IMPORTANCECryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi are common intestinal protozoa causing diarrhea. The infective oocysts, cysts, and spores released in feces can survive in different environments, including multiple types of water bodies. Humans can acquire these intestinal protozoan infections via the fecal-oral route as in waterborne transmission. Wastewater-based epidemiology can rapidly and reliably detect and monitor the emergence and spread of waterborne diseases. We detected Cryptosporidium spp., G. duodenalis, and E. bieneusi in a wastewater treatment plant in Shanghai, China, reflecting the occurrence and genetic characterizations of the three intestinal pathogens from community members served by the wastewater treatment plant.

Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoa Infections Among Some Primary School Pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria

The prevalence of intestinal protozoa infections among primary school pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria was investigated. Stool samples were collected from 450 pupils aged 5–13 years from six (6) primary schools in the Local Government Area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant demographic and risk factor data associated with intestinal protozoa infections. The stool samples were processed using the formol-ether concentration technique and microscopically examined for protozoan cysts; 10.7 % of the stool samples were positive for the cysts. The prevalences of intestinal protozoa were: 4.9 % for Entamoeba histolytica, 3.7 % for Entamoeba coli and 2.1 % for Balantidium coli. The prevalence of infection by protozoa in individual schools was not uniform despite the similarity in the local topography and weather conditions. Demographic data of age, sex and nature of school attended (public or private), were recorded at the point of sample collection. The age range prevalence for intestinal protozoa recorded 4.9%, 4% and 1.8% for 5-7 years, 8-10 years and 11-13 years respectively. More male pupils (6.4%) were infected compared to the females (4.3%). The laboratory analysis further revealed that prevalence was more among pupils that attend public school (7.1%) than those in private schools (3.6%). Poverty, ignorance and poor environmental sanitation were factors found to be associated with the prevalence rates recorded. It is therefore recommended that a concerted health education effort is necessary in order to curb the infections within the schools and the communities.

Identifikasi Penyakit Protozoa Terhadap Manusia

Protozoa is a microscopic, one-cell organism that belongs to the protista group. Some protozoa species are pathogenic and can cause a variety of serious diseases in humans, which are often spread through water, contaminated food, or vectors such as mosquitoes and flies. Diseases caused by protozoa, such as malaria, amebiasis, giardiasis, and leishmaniasis, have a significant impact on public health, especially in developing countries with poor sanitation and limited health systems. This research uses a method (literature review) with a keyword search for articles on protozoa disease against humans in the context of articles in Indonesia. Data collection techniques using search processes in Google Scholar Research results show that increased awareness, education, and training for medical personnel are also important to ensure that protozoa infections can be diagnosed and treated effectively, thus minimizing the impact of the disease on society. Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of sanitation, personal hygiene, health education, routine screening, and vector control to reduce the prevalence of intestinal protozoa infections and improve the health of people with weakened immunity

Effect of micronutrient deficiency on protozoal infection in stunting toddler

<p class="pf0"><strong><em>Background: </em></strong><em>Stunting is a developmental disorder caused by chronic inadequate nutritional intake in toddlers, leading to deficiencies in various nutrients, including iron and zinc. This can weaken toddlers' immunity, making them more vulnerable to infectious diseases, such as intestinal protozoa. An infected digestive tract can interfere with absorbing nutrients and reduce appetite, causing the infection to persist and become chronic. Chronic infection triggers the formation of pro-inflammatory cytokines that affect bone growth, hindering growth and causing stunting.</em><em></em></p><p class="pf0"><strong><em>Objectives: </em></strong><em>This study confidently investigates the correlation between iron and zinc micronutrient intake and intestinal protozoan infection in stunting toddlers in Jember District.</em><em></em></p><p class="pf0"><strong><em>Methods: </em></strong><em>The research is observational and cross-sectional, with 568 stunting toddlers aged 0-59 months in Jember District, East Java as study subjects. Iron and zinc intake were collected through 2x24-hour food-recall questionnaire interview and processed using the Nutrisurvey software. Protozoan infection status in toddler feces samples was identified using direct smear and modified Ziehl-Neelsen methods. The data analysis method chosen was the Spearman correlation test.</em></p><p class="pf0"><strong><em>Results: </em></strong><em>The study found that stunted toddlers in Jember District had mostly deficient micronutrient intake. The average iron intake is 2.56±3.06 mg and the average zinc intake is 1.8±1.47 mg. Protozoan infection was found in this study has a prevalence of 15.7%, with identified species including Entamoeba histolytica (3.3%), Giardia lamblia (2.6%), Cryptosporidium parvum (3.2%), Blastocystis hominis (5.3%), and mixed infections (1.2%). The statistical analysis confirms that there is no significant correlation between the intake of micronutrients iron (p=0.91;r=0.005) and zinc (p=0.76;r=0.013) and intestinal protozoan infection in stunting toddlers in Jember District.</em></p><p class="pf0"><strong><em>Conclusions: </em></strong><em>Based on the data, protozoan infection may be caused by multiple factors, such as parenting practices and family socioeconomics. However, improving nutrition by education and giving additional supplementation are crucial to reduce the prevalence of malnutrition in toddlers.</em><em></em></p>

Intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors: A cross-sectional study in Sunggal District, Deli Serdang

Intestinal protozoan infections have been reported worldwide with highly variable prevalence rates, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite this, limited research has been conducted on intestinal protozoan infections over the past decade, both in Indonesia and specifically in North Sumatra. Therefore, further investigation into the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections, especially protozoan infections, in areas surrounding Medan is warranted. This cross-sectional study assessed the association between risk factors and intestinal parasitic infections among 136 residents of Sunggal District, Deli Serdang, selected using consecutive sampling. Participants underwent interviews to evaluate risk factors using a checklist and provided fecal samples, as well as livestock samples if applicable. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Results revealed a significant association between age and Protozoa infection (p = 0.001), helminth infection (p = 0.0002), and overall parasitic infection (p = 0.0001). However, no significant associations were found for other variables. Furthermore, sanitation and hygiene levels were not significantly associated with parasitic infections (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that the risk factors assessed in this study were not significantly associated with intestinal protozoan infections. Nonetheless, the prevalence of both overall parasitic infections and protozoan infections remains high, with a spectrum ranging from asymptomatic to symptomatic cases. Further research is needed to elucidate the complex interplay of factors contributing to the persistence of these infections in the region.

Correlation of Intestinal Protozoa Infection with the Nutritional Status of Toddlers Aged 12–59 Months in Jember Regency, East Java, Indonesia

Correlation of Intestinal Protozoa Infection with the Nutritional Status of Toddlers Aged 12–59 Months in Jember Regency, East Java, Indonesia

Prevalence and Distribution of Geo-Helminths and Intestinal Protozoa Infections among School-Going Children in Nyeri County, Kenya

The goal of this study was to determine how common and widespread geo-helminths, STH, and intestinal protozoa infections are in the Mathira constituency of Nyeri County, Kenya. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of geohelminths and intestinal protozoa, as well as the distribution of STH and intestinal protozoa infections in school-going children. Cochran formulae guided the design of a cross-sectional study on a population of 174 children, yielding complete data for 164 of them. The social determinants of the health model guided this study. A structured questionnaire was applied to data collection to establish the demographic characteristics of the study participants in the identified three primary schools in the study site. They were examined for STH and protozoa infections by the quantitative Kato-Katz technique for STH and formal ether concentration techniques for intestinal protozoa infection. Statistical analysis was done using R Studio and the risk ratio. Findings showed that of the 56 samples examined in Kihuro primary school, 12 (21.4%) and 6 (10.7%) were positive for protozoan and STH infections. Similarly, 33% of the children in Gathuini primary school were found to be positive for protozoan infections, while 13% were infected with STH. In Gikumbo primary school, 20.4% of the children were infected with protozoan parasites, compared to 13% of STH infections. However, there was a variation in infection prevalence based on gender across the three selected sites. Children in Kihuro primary school were 0.12 times more at risk of STH infection compared to 0.3 times more at risk of protozoa infections. The intestinal protozoa infection was higher than that for the geohelminths infection in Gathuini primary school. Children in Gathuini primary school were 0.12 times more at risk of STH infection compared to 0.46 times more at risk of protozoa infections. Children in Gikumbo primary school were 0.1 times at risk of STH infection compared to 0.26 times at risk of protozoa infections, implying that they were more prone to protozoan infections than STH infections. The study concluded that the age and gender of students had no statistical significance. The study recommended that government institutions and non-governmental organizations should intervene and undertake adequate control measures against geo-helminth parasites by making sure there is access to safe water and improved sanitation in the area. Moreover, health education programs should be intensified in the area and beyond to raise awareness of geo-helminths and intestinal protozoa infection, means of transmission and control measures, and the improvement of hygiene practices for both children and parents.

Histopathological investigation and risk factors of Coccidiosis in camels (Camelus dromedarius), Algeria

Coccidiosis in dromedaries is an intestinal protozoan infection caused by apicomplexan parasites belonging to the genus Eimeria. A prospective examination was conducted at two slaughterhouses in southern Algeria. The primary objective of this investigation was to ascertain the prevalence of intestinal parasites in camels, elucidate the associated microscopic lesions, and identify the risk factors contributing to this infestation. In pursuit of this, we procured four segments of the intestines from 31 dromedarieas that appeared healthy and displayed no symptoms. Subsequently, these samples were collected, preserved, subjected to routine processing, and subsequently stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Intestinal parasitic infection showed an incidence rate of 45.16% (14 out of 31). Specifically, two types of parasites were discerned in the intestinal specimens through microscopic examination, namely Eimeria (41.93%; 13 out of 31) (p-value = 0.046) and Taenia (3.22%; 1 out of 31) (p = 0.001). Eimeria cameli was observed in the ceacum (41.93%; 13 out of 31), jejunum (12.90%; 4 out of 31), and in one instance in the duodenum (3.22%; 1 out of 31). Furthermore, numerous development stages of coccidia were identified, including gamonts, schizonts and oocysts. Deep microscopic lesions attributed to Eimeria cameli were detected, such as enteritis, eosinophilic infiltration and inflammation. In addition, associated risk factors were identified. This study has furnished valuable insights into parasitic infestations affecting dromedaries, particularly Eimeria cameli. The molecular studies are needed to delineate the diverse variations within Eimeria strains. Effective parasite control strategies specific to dromedary camels need to be developed.

Prevalence Study of the Intestinal Protozoal Parasitic Infections Rates at Babylon and Kerbala Cities

Intestinal protozoa are parasites transmitted by the consumption of contaminated water and food and mainly affect children and older people and cause considerable health problems. They are leading to causes of outpatient morbidity in developing countries due to diarrhea. The aim of this study was invetigation the prévalence of Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia parasites at Kerbala and Babylon cities in 2022. The research was conducted during the period starting from 1/1/2021 until 31/12/2021 in the provinces of Babylon and Kerbala. The Imam Al-Sadiq Hospital in Babylon and the AlHusseini Hospital in Karbala were taken. Data were collected in both hospitals to detect the spread of the disease (E.histolytica) and they were taken. Considering the percentage of injuries for age groups and gender of the injured during the months of the year. Results of this study showed that rates of intestinal parasitic infections at the Hospitals of Babylon City at Imam Sadiq Hospital, while the total infection rates was 6.58% While the total infection rate with the same parasite at Al-Hashimiya Hospital was 29%. At Hospitals of Kerbala city, the total infection rate at Al-Hussein Hospital was 21.37% While the rate of infected people at Al-Husseiniya Hospital was 26.4% The results of infection rates with Giardia lamblia in the current study showed the following:- At hospitals of Babylon city the total infection rate was 14.3% When it reached Imam Sadiq Hospital, the infection rate was 1.72% While the rate of infection in Al-Hashimiya Hospital was: 1.69% At hospitals of Kerbala city the infection rate was in Al-Hussein Hospital 1.83% While the rate of infected people was at Al-Husseiniya Hospital 2.21% The total infection rate was .4..% as the infection rate was in Al-Hussein Hospital 1.83%, while the infection rate in Al-Husseiniyah Hospital was 2.21%.

Detection of Sarcocystis albifronsi, Eimeria alpacae, and Cystoisospora felis in Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in northwestern China

Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) is widely distributed in various habitats in Asia and Europe, and it may harbor multiple pathogens. Currently, the information on protozoan infection in Eurasian lynx is scarce. In this study, we performed nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) analysis to detect intestinal protozoan infection in three dead Eurasian lynxes, in northwestern China. Three dead Eurasian lynxes, an adult female (#1), an adult male (#2), and a cub male (#3), were sampled in West Junggar Mountain, the northwestern region of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The intestine samples were analyzed using nPCR. We used primers targeting the cytochrome C oxidase subunit I gene (COI) for detection of Sarcocystis and Eimeria species and targeting the small subunit 18 S ribosomal RNA gene (18S rRNA) for detection of Cystoisospora species. The nPCR-positive products were sequenced, aligned, and phylogenetically analyzed. Three intestinal protozoa, Sarcocystis albifronsi, Eimeria alpacae, and Cystoisospora felis, were found in three Eurasian lynxes. The intestine sample of Eurasian lynx #2 was detected with S. albifronsi and E. alpacae. In addition, C. felis was only found in the intestine sample of Eurasian lynx #3. To the best of our knowledge, S. albifronsi and E. alpacae were detected in Eurasian lynx for the first time. In addition, C. felis was firstly found in Eurasian lynx in China. These findings extend our knowledge of the geographical distribution and host range of intestinal protozoa.

Epidemiology and Molecular Characterization of Zoonotic Gastrointestinal Protozoal Infection in Zoo Animals in China.

Zoo animals, harboring zoonotic gastrointestinal protozoal diseases, pose potential hazards to the safety of visitors and animal keepers. This study involved the collection and examination of 400 fresh fecal samples from 68 animal species, obtained from five zoos. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence, genetic characteristics, and zoonotic potential of common gastrointestinal protists. PCR or nested PCR analysis was conducted on these samples to detect four specific parasites: Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Blastocystis spp. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp was 0.5% (2/400), G. duodenalis was 6.0% (24/400), Blastocystis spp. was 24.5% (98/400), and E. bieneusi was 13.5% (54/400). G. duodenalis, Blastocystis spp., and E. bieneusi were detected in all of the zoos, exhibiting various zoonotic genotypes or subtypes. G. duodenalis-positive samples exhibited three assemblages (D, E, and B). Blastocystis spp. subtypes (ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5, ST8, ST10, ST13, and ST14) and one unknown subtype (ST) were identified. A total of 12 genotypes of E. bieneusi were identified, including SC02, BEB6, Type IV, pigEBITS 7, Peru8, PtEb IX, D, CD9, EbpC, SCBB1, CM4, and CM7. Moreover, significant differences in the positive rates among different zoos were observed (p < 0.01). The findings indicate that zoo animals in China are affected by a range of intestinal protozoa infections. Emphasizing molecular identification for specific parasite species or genotypes is crucial for a better understanding of the zoonotic risk. Preventing and controlling parasitic diseases in zoos is not only vital for zoo protection and management but also holds significant public health implications.

Cryptosporidiosis Detection Using Immunoglobulin a Serum with Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Method

Background: Cryptosporidiosis is still one of the most common intestinal protozoan infections found in developing countries, affecting children and adults. Cryptosporidium sp. infection activates the immune response by secreting high levels of specific Cryptosporidium IgA antibodies during the infection process. IgA can be examined by ELISA to establish a diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis. Methods: The purpose of this study was to determine the results of Cryptosporidiosis detection with serum IgA ELISA. This study was a quantitative descriptive study with 39 samples collected from children to adults using consecutive sampling technique. Data obtained from the study results were processed by univariate analysis and presented in tabular form to see the frequency distribution. Result: The results of the study involving 39 respondents revealed that the most prevalent age groups were 6-11 years old and 36-45 years old, with the majority being female. Among the 39 samples examined using the ELISA method, the Optical Density ranged from 0.059 to 1.393. One sample (2.56%) tested positive for IgA Cryptosporidium sp., specifically from age 55 years (16.6%) and male participants (20%). Conclusion: The study concluded that the Optical Density value of the positive ELISA examination was 1.393 with one sample found positive for Cryptosporidiosis from a 55 years old male. Keywords: [Cryptosporidium sp., IgA, ELISA]

Epidemiological study of Intestinal protozoan Infections: A Cross-sectional study in Zakho City, Kurdistan Region, Iraq during 2018-2022

Background and aims: Intestinal protozoan parasitic infections are considered one of the most frequent types of infection caused by these parasites and remain a major health problem for communities. This study aims to detect the frequency of intestinal protozoan infections infection among Zakho general population from October 2018 to June 2022. Methods: This study was performed as a cross-sectional study among 2118 patients referring to private medical diagnostic laboratories in Zakho City, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Samples of faecal matter were collected and subjected to analysis using two different techniques: direct observation under the microscope (wet mount) and formalin-ether concentration methods. Morphological characteristics of trophozoites and cysts were used to identify E. histolytica using microscopical examination. Results: Out of 2118 recruited samples, 1155 (54.53%) were male and 963 (45.47%) were female. The mean age of participants was 20.41 (±19.12) with ages ranging from 1-63 years. The overall prevalence of protozoan infections was 395/2118 (18.65%). Out of these, Entamoeba histolytica was the predominant pathogenic protozoa infection 271 (68.61%), followed by Giardia lamblia 100 (25.31%). A significant association was seen between Entamoeba histolytica and age groups (p=0.003) and gender (p=0.004). The highest infection rate was reported among the age group &lt;15 years (55.72%). We also found a higher rate of Giardia infection among age group &lt;15 years (46%) with significant differences (p=0.002) and a higher rate of Giardia seen in females (55%) with significant association (p=0.014). Conclusion: The frequency of Giardia lamblia and E. histolytica infections in our study was higher than other studies reported in Iraq and other countries, and these infections continue to pose a difficult public health issue and necessitate the implementation of stronger and more effective preventative measures.

Evaluation of a rapid immunochromatographic test for the diagnosis of intestinal protozoan infections among patients attending a rural outreach outpatient department in Northern India.

Despite great efforts, intestinal protozoan infections remain a significant healthcare concern worldwide. Although many point-of-care (POC) tests are increasingly being used, microscopic examination of stool specimens remains the mainstay for their diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings. We assessed the utility of rapid POC tests based on immunochromatography among patients from rural Northern India. A total of 78 patients were enrolled in the study. Out of nine specimens that tested positive for Giardia duodenalis on microscopy, an immunochromatographic test (ICT) could detect only five (55.55%). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was demonstrated in two specimens on microscopy, both of which were missed by ICT. Its overall sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value were 50%, 98.5%, 83.3%, and 93%, respectively. Its performance was considered unsatisfactory. Although ICT-based tests provide a relatively rapid and less labor-intensive alternative, they should be used to supplement and not replace stool microscopy.

Human protozoa infection and dysplasia in ulcerative colitis: a neglected aspect in a prominent disease

The chance of getting colorectal cancer (CRC) is higher in people with chronic ulcerative colitis (UC). The impact of parasitic infections on UC is underappreciated. The purpose of this study was to look into the effect of intestinal protozoal infections on the dysplastic changes generated by UC. The research included 152 adult patients with histologically confirmed UC and 152 healthy controls. Fecal samples were examined for the presence of parasites and fecal calprotectin (FC). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measured serum anti-p53 antibodies (p53Abs) and metallothioneins (MTs). The advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were measured by a spectrophotometric method in all subjects. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 were also measured. In addition, histopathological and immunohistochemical investigations of intestinal tissue were done. Our results exhibited significant increases in FC and CRP, IL-6, AOPPs, MTs, and p53Abs in ulcerative colitis patients with parasitic infections compared to those without parasites. In contrast, GSH levels showed a significant decrease in the same group compared with other groups. Histopathological and immunohistochemical assessments of intestinal tissue signified severe inflammation and strong expression of PD-L1 in patients with parasitic infections compared to others without parasitic infections. Our research indicated a greater frequency of intestinal protozoa in UC patients with elevated inflammatory and dysplastic biomarker levels. This suggests that these parasites may be involved in the etiology of chronic UC and the associated carcinogenetic process. This is the first report of a link between parasitic infections and dysplastic alterations in UC patients.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among children in Kirkuk City, Iraq.

Intestinal parasites are endemic in many developing areas, and they are regarded as one of the most frequent tropical diseases, where they are responsible for adult and child morbidity and mortality. The current study is a survey to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections in patients attending the General Hospital for Pediatrics in Kirkuk City from January 2021 to September 2021. Stool samples were examined by direct smear method with normal saline 0.9 % NaCl and 1% iodine-Lugol solution staining method to determine the outcomes of the current investigation. The results were assessed using the Q-square statistic test. The current study's findings revealed that intestinal parasites were reported in 69(31.7), the most affected group of patients with intestinal parasites, those 1-3 years old (11.4%), Intestinal protozoa infection were (24.3%) significantly more than helminths with (7.4%). The most common protozoa were Entamoeba histolytica (17.9%), the next common protozoan found was Giardia lamblia (6.4%). Intestinal helminth infections were reported in this study (7.4%). Males were more infected with intestinal parasites (18.4%) than females (13.3%). The highest infection rate with intestinal parasites was recorded between August (6.4%) and September (4.6%). Double infection was detected in three cases with Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia. At the same time, no triple infection was reported during this study. Keywords: Intestinal parasitic infections, Intestinal protozoa, Intestinal helminths, Kirkuk

Investigation of the prevalence of intestinal protozoa among health workers

This study was aimed to detection the prevalence of diseases were caused by intestinal protozoa in staff of Al-diwaniyah teaching hospital and maternity and child hospital, and to identify the relationship between the staffs personal hygiene and these diseases. A research was designed from October 2015- March 2016. one hundred twenty stool samples collected from the of health workers in Al- Diwaniyah teaching hospital, and maternity and child hospital under the rate of (20 samples) for each months of study months.The results were showed that infection with the Entamoeba histolytica was (36 cases) which represent (43.2%), the highest rate of infection was during October which has reached (10 cases) which represent (50%), while the number of infection with the Giardia lamblia was (16 cases) which represent (13.3 %), the highest rate of infection was during November which has reached (5 cases) which represented (25%). The detection has declared that not wearing gloves, washing hands and pasteurizing them after diagnosis of patient . The study concluded that the prevalence of intestinal protozoa infection that cause diarrhea that include Entamoeba histolutica and Giardia lamblia, and the infection association with the poor hygiene and also the high rate of infection was during the warm seasons.The study recommended that educating health workers commitment to the rules of public health and attention to personal hygiene, and wash hands and wear gloves when handling patients. Do periodically screened for transitional diseases, including inflammation of intestinal protozoa. And through a questionnaire to determine the medical history of diarrhea For Forty people working in the hospital, The questionnaire showed there were ifection Intestinal parasites in the six months prior to the study. The proportion of amoeba cases was 12 cases and repeated five times. The number of cases withe Giardia was 4 cases and the infection was repeated to one person only. Some of them had bacterial infections that were diagnosed in hospital laboratories But they