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Fahal AH, Ahmed IS, Saaed AA, Smith DJ, Alves F, Nyaoke B, Asiedu K, Hay R. Hope amidst neglect: Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum. A holistic management approach to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012420. [PMID: 39235990 PMCID: PMC11376558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma is a debilitating neglected tropical disease that affects individuals worldwide, particularly in regions where there is poverty and limited health care access. The Mycetoma Research Center (MRC), based in Khartoum, Sudan, provides a sustainable, holistic approach to patient care as the only World Health Organization collaborating center for mycetoma. We describe MRC activities that align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to control mycetoma in Sudan and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iman Siddig Ahmed
- The Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ali Awadallah Saaed
- The Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- The National University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Dallas J Smith
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Fabiana Alves
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Borna Nyaoke
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Nairobi, Kenya
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Fahal AH, Ahmed ES, Mahmoud AH, Saaed AA. The Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, Sudan's experience in community engagement initiatives spans 3 decades. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012304. [PMID: 39172748 PMCID: PMC11340884 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma profoundly affects marginalised communities, especially in impoverished and remote areas with limited access to healthcare. This chronic and debilitating inflammatory disease highlights the typical issues of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as insufficient attention, funding, and resources, which perpetuate neglect and suffering. Patients often delay seeking medical help, leading to advanced disease stages, severe complications, and lasting disabilities. The lack of medical infrastructure and skilled healthcare professionals worsens the situation, causing delays in diagnosis and inadequate treatment. Engaging affected communities in tailored interventions is essential to tackle these challenges, promote collaboration, raise awareness, and mobilise resources to improve healthcare access and enhance diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Since 1991, the Mycetoma Research Center (MRC) at the University of Khartoum, Sudan, has led community engagement initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for mycetoma-affected individuals through education, advocacy, and local collaboration. In this communication, the MRC shares its extensive experience in community engagement to benefit mycetoma-affected communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Hassan Fahal
- Mycetoma Research Center, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Eiman Siddig Ahmed
- Mycetoma Research Center, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Hussein Mahmoud
- Mycetoma Research Center, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ali Awadella Saaed
- Mycetoma Research Center, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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van de Sande WWJ, Fahal AH. An updated list of eumycetoma causative agents and their differences in grain formation and treatment response. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0003423. [PMID: 38690871 PMCID: PMC11237709 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00034-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYIn 2023, the World Health Organization designated eumycetoma causative agents as high-priority pathogens on its list of fungal priority pathogens. Despite this recognition, a comprehensive understanding of these causative agents is lacking, and potential variations in clinical manifestations or therapeutic responses remain unclear. In this review, 12,379 eumycetoma cases were reviewed. In total, 69 different fungal species were identified as causative agents. However, some were only identified once, and there was no supporting evidence that they were indeed present in the grain. Madurella mycetomatis was by far the most commonly reported fungal causative agent. In most studies, identification of the fungus at the species level was based on culture or histology, which was prone to misidentifications. The newly used molecular identification tools identified new causative agents. Clinically, no differences were reported in the appearance of the lesion, but variations in mycetoma grain formation and antifungal susceptibility were observed. Although attempts were made to explore the differences in clinical outcomes based on antifungal susceptibility, the lack of large clinical trials and the inclusion of surgery as standard treatment posed challenges in drawing definitive conclusions. Limited case series suggested that eumycetoma cases caused by Fusarium species were less responsive to treatment than those caused by Madurella mycetomatis. However, further research is imperative for a comprehensive understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy W. J. van de Sande
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ahmed H. Fahal
- The Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Chandler DJ, Escalante L, Maldonado A, Tello S, Orellana S, Escalante E. Mycetoma in Ecuador. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024; 118:339-342. [PMID: 38214978 PMCID: PMC11062186 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies on the distribution of mycetoma globally have failed to identify Ecuador as an endemic country. METHODS We present data on 35 cases of mycetoma in Ecuador between 1955 and 2021: 5 cases from our experience and 30 cases from the literature. RESULTS Eight cases of eumycetoma (23%) and 27 cases of actinomycetoma (77%) were diagnosed. Most cases originated from the coastal region of Ecuador. CONCLUSIONS For the first time in an English-language publication, this communication confirms the presence of mycetoma in Ecuador, securing Ecuador's position on the global mycetoma map.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Chandler
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, BN1 9PX, UK
- Dermatology Department, Brighton General Hospital, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, BN2 3EW, UK
| | - Luis Escalante
- Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Universidad de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Astrid Maldonado
- Universidad de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
- EPHORA Research Group, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Sonia Tello
- Department of Pathology, Hospital Axxis, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Shirley Orellana
- Hospital General del Norte de Guayaquil Los Ceibos, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Ali HO, Elkheir LYM, Fahal AH. The use of artificial intelligence to improve mycetoma management. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011914. [PMID: 38329930 PMCID: PMC10852264 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hyam Omar Ali
- Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- The Faculty of Mathematical Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Lamis Yahia Mohamed Elkheir
- Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- The Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Hashizume H, Taga S, Sakata MK, Hussein M, Siddig EE, Minamoto T, Fahal AH, Kaneko S. Environmental detection of eumycetoma pathogens using multiplex real-time PCR for soil DNA in Sennar State, Sudan. Trop Med Health 2023; 51:71. [PMID: 38115141 PMCID: PMC10729560 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00563-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycetoma is a chronic disease affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissue endemic in the tropical and subtropical regions. Several bacteria and fungi can cause mycetoma, but fungal mycetoma (eumycetoma) is challenging because the treatment requires a combination of a long-term antifungal agent and surgery. Although the transmission route has not yet been elucidated, infection from the soil is a leading hypothesis. However, there are few soil investigation studies, and the geographical distribution of mycetoma pathogens is not well documented. Here, we used multiplex real-time PCR technology to identify three fungal species from soil samples. METHODS In total, 64 DNA samples were extracted from soil collected in seven villages in an endemic area in Sennar State, Sudan, in 2019. Primers and fluorescent probes specifically targeting the ribosomal DNA of Madurella mycetomatis, Falciformispora senegalensis, and F. tompkinsii were designed. RESULTS Multiplex real-time PCR was performed and identified the major pathogen, M. mycetomatis that existed in most sites (95%). In addition, two other pathogens were identified from some sites. This is the first report on the use of this technique for identifying the eumycetoma causative microorganisms. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that soil DNA investigation can elucidate the risk area of mycetoma-causative agents. The results will contribute to the design of prevention measures, and further large-scale studies may be effective in understanding the natural habitats of mycetoma pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Hashizume
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
- Department of Ecoepidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Suguru Taga
- Department of Ecoepidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Masayuki K Sakata
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, 3-11 Tsurukabuto, Nada-Ku, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
- Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Kita-9, Nishi-9, Kita-Ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-8589, Japan
| | - Mahmoud Hussein
- Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 102, Khartoum, Sudan
- Tumors Therapy and Cancer Research Center, Molecular Biology Unit, Shendi University, P.O .Box 142-143, Shendi, Sudan
| | - Emmanuel Edwar Siddig
- Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 102, Khartoum, Sudan
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Unit of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Toshifumi Minamoto
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, 3-11 Tsurukabuto, Nada-Ku, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Ahmed Hassan Fahal
- Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 102, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Satoshi Kaneko
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
- Department of Ecoepidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
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Abstract
Mycetoma is a chronic, incapacitating, destructive inflammatory disease with many serious damaging impacts. Currently, there is no control or prevention program as many of its epidemiological characteristics, such as the causative organisms' ecological niche, natural habitat, primary reservoir, transmission mode, geographical distribution, incidence, and prevalence, remain unclear. This may be due to a lack of research interest, as mycetoma is still a neglected disease and the scarcity of accurate molecular diagnostic techniques in disease-endemic regions for accurate causative microorganisms identification and mapping. With this background, this study set out to address this knowledge gap by considering the mycetoma environmental occurrence predictors. The medical literature obtained data showed a close association between mycetoma occurrence and its environment. The causative microorganisms are available in the environment in active or dormant forms. Animal dung may be a natural niche and reservoir for these organisms, and thorns may facilitate the subcutaneous inoculation. Some environmental factors, such as the soil type and consistency, temperature, water sources, aridity index, and thorny trees, may be risk factors. The population in endemic areas socioeconomic, hygiene, and health education status are contributory factors for mycetoma. The individual's genetic and immunological backgrounds may determine the disease's susceptibility and resistance. Environmental conditions and personal hygiene improvement are mandatory to reduce disease occurrence. Mycetoma spatial mapping can detect disease cluster areas and then develop public health strategies for early case detection and management to reduce the disease burden. More research interests and facilities are needed to understand disease pathogenesis and appropriate patient management better.
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Chandler DJ, Bonifaz A, van de Sande WWJ. An update on the development of novel antifungal agents for eumycetoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1165273. [PMID: 37274106 PMCID: PMC10232793 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1165273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Eumycetoma, a chronic subcutaneous mycosis, responds poorly to the available antifungal treatments and patients often require extensive surgical resection or amputation of the affected limb. More effective treatments are needed for eumycetoma. This article will describe some of the approaches being used to develop and evaluate new treatments for eumycetoma, summarise the latest developments and discuss the challenges that lie ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Chandler
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Dermatology Department, Brighton General Hospital, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandro Bonifaz
- Hospital General de México “Dr. Eduardo Liceaga”, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Wendy W. J. van de Sande
- Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Simpson H, Mengiste A, Mbonigaba JB, Kollie K, Nganda M, Dean L, Argaw D, Davey G, Semrau M. Research priorities to support the development of integrated national strategies to control skin-neglected tropical diseases. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2023; 117:132-138. [PMID: 36130404 PMCID: PMC9890312 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trac086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Skin-presenting neglected tropical diseases (skin-NTDs) impose large burdens on affected people, families and communities. The NTD Roadmap 2021-2030 presents a strategic plan to guide collaborative, multisectoral action to overcome these burdens, defining targets to control, eliminate and/or eradicate skin-NTDs by 2030. One of its targets is for 40 countries to adopt integrated skin-NTD strategies. Despite this high-level support for integration, only four countries were implementing integrated skin-NTD strategies in 2020. METHODS We hosted workshops at the 2021 annual meeting of the Coalition for Operational Research on NTDs, to discuss the operationalisation of Roadmap goals into national strategies and interventions for skin-NTD control. Speakers included NTD Programme Managers from NTD-endemic countries, technical experts and researchers of different aspects of skin-NTDs. RESULTS Challenges include community perceptions of interventions, demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of integrated care, availability and accessibility of community-based and primary healthcare services, the quality of data on skin-NTD morbidity and changes to operational structures required for integration. Research priorities included the identification of optimal case detection platforms, evaluation of integrated care, understanding the impacts of integration on community members and community health staff and development of point-of-care diagnostics. CONCLUSIONS The operational research priorities are intended to support the scale-up of integrated skin-NTDs programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope Simpson
- Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK.,Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Asrat Mengiste
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, 2Q92+P2W, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jean Bosco Mbonigaba
- Rwanda Neglected Tropical Diseases Programme, Rwanda Biomedical Centre, Ministry of Health 23VV+3MM, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Karsor Kollie
- Non Communicable and Neglected Tropical Disease Program in the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, 8643+F7C, Monrovia, Liberia
| | - Motto Nganda
- Capacity Research Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Laura Dean
- Capacity Research Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Daniel Argaw
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gail Davey
- Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
| | - Maya Semrau
- Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
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Babiker LA, Babiker AO, Badawi BAK, Abdalla RA, Abdalla RM, Hassan ZF, Mohammed ZA, Marzoug MEL, Yousef BA, Badi S. Knowledge and practice about mycetoma infection among community pharmacists in Khartoum State: A descriptive cross-sectional study. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2023.101175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Epidemiologic Aspects of Mycetoma in Africa. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8121258. [PMID: 36547591 PMCID: PMC9781793 DOI: 10.3390/jof8121258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma is a chronic, disabling infection caused by fungi or actinomycetes that affects the disadvantaged rural populations of arid tropical regions. The identification of etiological agents is long, difficult, and often imprecise or unsuccessful. Recently developed molecular methods can be used to identify causal agents at the species level. However, diagnosis can only be implemented in specialized laboratories. For these reasons, the distribution of causal agents in endemic African countries remains approximate. It is known that the pathogenic organisms of mycetoma are present in the environment, introduced as a result of injuries or trauma. There are still unknowns concerning the natural habitats of agents and the mode of infection. A potential association between mycetoma and acacia was uncovered in Sudan, allowing the elaboration of a risk map of the country. A new hypothesis for the mode of contamination involves the intervention of an intermediate host. The first surveys in Sudanese endemic villages gave a higher prevalence than the previous estimates, indicating that the prevalence of mycetoma in endemic African countries has previously been underestimated.
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Litvintseva AP, Bakhiet S, Gade L, Wagner DD, Bagal UR, Batra D, Norris E, Rishishwar L, Beer KD, Siddig EE, Mhmoud NA, Chow NA, Fahal A. Genomics and metagenomics of Madurella mycetomatis, a causative agent of black grain mycetoma in Sudan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010787. [PMID: 36322569 PMCID: PMC9629555 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Madurella mycetomatis is one of the main causative agents of mycetoma, a debilitating neglected tropical disease. Improved understanding of the genomic diversity of the fungal and bacterial causes of mycetoma is essential to advances in diagnosis and treatment. Here, we describe a high-quality genome assembly of M. mycetomatis and results of the whole genome sequence analysis of 26 isolates from Sudan. We demonstrate evidence of at least seven genetically diverse lineages and extreme clonality among isolates within these lineages. We also performed shotgun metagenomic analysis of DNA extracted from mycetoma grains and showed that M. mycetomatis reads were detected in all sequenced samples with the average of 11,317 reads (s.d. +/- 21,269) per sample. In addition, 10 (12%) of the 81 tested grain samples contained bacterial reads including Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp. and others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia P. Litvintseva
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Sahar Bakhiet
- The Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Lalitha Gade
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | | | - Dhwani Batra
- Office of Advanced Molecular Detection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Emily Norris
- Applied Bioinformatics Laboratory, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Lavanya Rishishwar
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Karlyn D. Beer
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - Najwa Adam Mhmoud
- The Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Nancy A. Chow
- Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Ahmed Fahal
- The Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Hassan R, Cano J, Fronterre C, Bakhiet S, Fahal A, Deribe K, Newport M. Estimating the burden of mycetoma in Sudan for the period 1991-2018 using a model-based geostatistical approach. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010795. [PMID: 36240229 PMCID: PMC9604875 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions favouring arid areas with low humidity and a short rainy season. Sudan is one of the highly endemic countries for mycetoma. Estimating the population at risk and the number of cases is critical for delivering targeted and equitable prevention and treatment services. In this study, we have combined a large dataset of mycetoma cases recorded by the Mycetoma Research Centre (MRC) in Sudan over 28 years (1991-2018) with a collection of environmental and water and hygiene-related datasets in a geostatistical framework to produce estimates of the disease burden across the country. We developed geostatistical models to predict the number of cases of actinomycetoma and eumycetoma in areas considered environmentally suitable for the two mycetoma forms. Then used the raster dataset (gridded map) with the population estimates for 2020 to compute the potentially affected population since 1991. The geostatistical models confirmed this heterogeneous and distinct distribution of the estimated cases of eumycetoma and actinomycetoma across Sudan. For eumycetoma, these higher-risk areas were smaller and scattered across Al Jazirah, Khartoum, White Nile and Sennar states, while for actinomycetoma a higher risk for infection is shown across the rural districts of North and West Kurdufan. Nationally, we estimated 63,825 people (95%CI: 13,693 to 197,369) to have been suffering from mycetoma since 1991 in Sudan,51,541 people (95%CI: 9,893-166,073) with eumycetoma and 12,284 people (95%CI: 3,800-31,296) with actinomycetoma. In conclusion, the risk of mycetoma in Sudan is particularly high in certain restricted areas, but cases are ubiquitous across all states. Both prevention and treatment services are required to address the burden. Such work provides a guide for future control and prevention programs for mycetoma, highly endemic areas are clearly targeted, and resources are directed to areas with high demand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowa Hassan
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Jorge Cano
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Claudio Fronterre
- Centre for health informatics, computing, and statistics, Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sahar Bakhiet
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Fahal
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Kebede Deribe
- Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Melanie Newport
- Centre for health informatics, computing, and statistics, Lancaster Medical School, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Hounsome N, Hassan R, Bakhiet SM, Deribe K, Bremner S, Fahal AH, Newport MJ. Role of socioeconomic factors in developing mycetoma: Results from a household survey in Sennar State, Sudan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010817. [PMID: 36251732 PMCID: PMC9624402 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycetoma is a chronic, progressively destructive disease of subcutaneous tissues and bones caused by certain species of bacteria or fungi. We conducted a cross-sectional community-based study alongside mapping of mycetoma in five administrative units with high mycetoma endemicity in the Eastern Sennar Locality, Sennar State, Sudan. METHODS A household survey was administered which included questions about the household members, household characteristics, economic activity and history of mycetoma. A clinical examination was conducted on all members of the household. If mycetoma was suspected, an individual questionnaire was completed collecting demographic, clinical and epidemiological data as well as information on the use of health care and associated costs. Geographical coordinates and photos of the lesions were taken, and the affected persons were referred to the medical centre for confirmation of the diagnosis and treatment. We compared the characteristics of households with confirmed cases of mycetoma with those without confirmed cases, and individuals with confirmed mycetoma with those in whom mycetoma was not confirmed. RESULTS In total 7,798 households in 60 villages were surveyed; 515 suspected cases were identified and 359 cases of mycetoma were confirmed. Approximately 15% of households with mycetoma had more than one household member affected by this disease. Households with mycetoma were worse off with respect to water supply, toilet facilities, electricity and electrical appliances compared to the survey households. Only 23% of study participants with mycetoma had sought professional help. Of these, 77% of patients travelled an average of six hours to visit a medical facility. More than half of patients had to pay towards their treatment. The estimated average cost of treatment was 26,957 Sudanese pounds per year (566 US dollars, exchange rate 2018). CONCLUSIONS Results of this survey suggest that agricultural practices and reduced access to sanitation and clean water can be risk factors in developing mycetoma. Poor access to health care and substantial financial costs were barriers to seeking treatment for mycetoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Hounsome
- Brighton and Sussex Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Rowa Hassan
- The Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Kebede Deribe
- Brighton and Sussex Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Stephen Bremner
- Brighton and Sussex Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Melanie J. Newport
- Brighton and Sussex Centre for Global Health Research, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Deka MA, Vieira AR, Bower WA. Modelling the ecological niche of naturally occurring anthrax at global and circumpolar extents using an ensemble modelling framework. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e2563-e2577. [PMID: 35590480 PMCID: PMC10961590 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, is a spore-forming bacterium that primarily affects herbivorous livestock, wildlife and humans exposed to direct contact with infected animal carcasses or products. To date, there are a limited number of studies that have delineated the potential global distribution of anthrax, despite the importance of the disease from both an economic and public health standpoint. This study compiled occurrence data (n = 874) of confirmed human and animal cases from 1954 to 2021 in 94 countries. Using an ensemble ecological niche model framework, we developed updated maps of the global predicted ecological suitability of anthrax to measure relative risk at multiple scales of analysis, including a model for circumpolar regions. Additionally, we produced maps quantifying the disease transmission risk associated with anthrax to cattle, sheep and goat populations. Environmental suitability for B. anthracis globally is concentred throughout Eurasia, sub-Saharan Africa, the Americas, Southeast Asia, Australia and Oceania. Suitable environments for B. anthracis at the circumpolar scale extend above the Arctic Circle into portions of Russia, Canada, Alaska and northern Scandinavia. Environmental factors driving B. anthracis suitability globally include vegetation, land surface temperature, soil characteristics, primary climate conditions and topography. At the circumpolar scale, suitability is influenced by soil factors, topography and the derived climate characteristics. The greatest risk to livestock is concentrated within the Indian subcontinent, Australia, Anatolia, the Caucasus region, Central Asia, the European Union, Argentina, Uruguay, China, the United States, Canada and East Africa. This study expands on previous work by providing enhanced knowledge of the potential spatial distribution of anthrax in the Southern Hemisphere, sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and circumpolar regions of the Northern Hemisphere. We conclude that these updated maps will provide pertinent information to guide disease control programs, inform policymakers and raise awareness at the global level to lessen morbidity and mortality among animals and humans located in environmentally suitable areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Deka
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Antonio R Vieira
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - William A Bower
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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16
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Hassan R, Deribe K, Simpson H, Bremner S, Elhadi O, Alnour M, Fahal AH, Newport M, Bakhiet S. Individual Risk Factors of Mycetoma Occurrence in Eastern Sennar Locality, Sennar State, Sudan: A Case-Control Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7080174. [PMID: 36006266 PMCID: PMC9412883 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7080174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma is a serious chronic subcutaneous granulomatous inflammatory disease that is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, where it impacts profoundly on patients, families, and communities. Individual-level risk factors for the disease are poorly understood. To address this, a case-control study was conducted based on data collected from 60 villages in Eastern Sennar Locality, Sennar State, Sudan. Based on the presence of swelling in any part of the body, or sinus formation with or without grain discharge evident from the lesion by ultrasound examination, we diagnosed 359 cases of mycetoma. For each case, we included three healthy sex-matched persons, with no evidence of mycetoma, from the same village as the control group (n = 1077). The odds for mycetoma were almost three times higher in individuals in the age group 16–30 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.804, 95% CI = 1.424–5.523) compared to those in age group ≤ 15 years. Other factors contributing to the odds of mycetoma were history of local trauma (AOR = 1.892, 95% CI = 1.425–2.513), being unmarried (AOR = 3.179, 95% CI = 2.339–4.20) and owning livestock (AOR = 3.941, 95% CI = 2.874–5.405). In conclusion, certain factors found to be associated with mycetoma in this study could inform a high index of suspicion for mycetoma diagnosis, which would improve early case detection. Other factors found to be associated could inform the development of an interventional program for mycetoma control in Sudan, including education on healthy farming practices and the risks of puncture wounds for individuals residing in endemic areas. However, this work was conducted in one endemic state, while mycetoma cases occur in all states of Sudan. Replicating this study over a wider area would give a fuller picture of the situation, providing the control program with more comprehensive information on the risk factors for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowa Hassan
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Kebede Deribe
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
- Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, Addis Ababa P.O. Box 9086, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa P.O. Box 9086, Ethiopia
| | - Hope Simpson
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Stephen Bremner
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
| | - Osama Elhadi
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
| | - Mustafa Alnour
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
- Department of Radiography, Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
| | - Ahmed Hassan Fahal
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
| | - Melanie Newport
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
| | - Sahar Bakhiet
- Mycetoma Research Centre, Soba University Hospital, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
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Hashizume H, Taga S, Sakata MK, Taha MHM, Siddig EE, Minamoto T, Fahal AH, Kaneko S. Detection of multiple mycetoma pathogens using fungal metabarcoding analysis of soil DNA in an endemic area of Sudan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010274. [PMID: 35275915 PMCID: PMC8942264 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma is a tropical disease caused by several fungi and bacteria present in the soil. Fungal mycetoma and eumycetoma are especially challenging to treat; therefore, prevention, early diagnosis, and early treatment are important, but it is also necessary to understand the geographic distribution of these pathogenic fungi. In this study, we used DNA metabarcoding methodology to identify fungal species from soil samples. Soil sampling was implemented at seven villages in an endemic area of Sennar State in Sudan in 2019, and ten sampling sites were selected in each village according to land-use conditions. In total, 70 soil samples were collected from ground surfaces, and DNA in the soil was extracted with a combined method of alkaline DNA extraction and a commercial soil DNA extraction kit. The region for universal primers was selected to be the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer one region for metabarcoding. After the second PCR for DNA library preparation, the amplicon-based DNA analysis was performed using next-generation sequencing with two sets of universal primers. A total of twelve mycetoma-causative fungal species were identified, including the prime agent, Madurella mycetomatis, and additional pathogens, Falciformispora senegalensis and Falciformispora tompkinsii, in 53 soil samples. This study demonstrated that soil DNA metabarcoding can elucidate the presence of multiple mycetoma-causative fungi, which may contribute to accurate diagnosis for patient treatment and geographical mapping. Mycetoma, a chronic subcutaneous and cutaneous disease, designated as a "neglected tropical disease," is prevalent in dry and hot climates. Fungal mycetoma is caused by more than 50 species of soil-dwelling pathogenic fungi, and its diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. The prevention of infection and early diagnosis and treatment are essential, and for this purpose, environmental assessment to understand the fungal habitat is necessary. In this study, we performed DNA metabarcoding analysis using next-generation sequencing (NGS) for mycetoma pathogens from environmental soil samples in Sudan. The results suggest that multiple causative agents of fungal mycetoma are widespread regardless of the environment and can be a source of infection anywhere in an endemic area. Based on the results of this study, we expect that the investigation of fungi in soil using NGS technology may help identify infection routes and create risk maps for the prevention of mycetoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Hashizume
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Ecoepidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Suguru Taga
- Department of Ecoepidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Masayuki K. Sakata
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | | | | | - Toshifumi Minamoto
- Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Kaneko
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Ecoepidemiology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Hassan R, Deribe K, Fahal AH, Newport M, Bakhiet S. Clinical epidemiological characteristics of mycetoma in Eastern Sennar locality, Sennar State, Sudan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009847. [PMID: 34898611 PMCID: PMC8699598 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma epidemiological features remain uncharacterised. Few studies have been conducted in a community-based setting to explore the epidemiological features and risk factors for mycetoma in Sudan. To bridge this gap, this study was conducted in Eastern Sennar Locality, Sennar State, Sudan, to report the clinical, epidemiological characteristics of mycetoma patients and the disease burden in the state. We used cluster sampling; sixty villages were randomly selected across the locality's five administrative units, and a household-to-household survey was conducted. We collected data using pre-designed questionnaires at the community, household, and individual levels. We performed descriptive analyses of the data and produced prevalence maps using ArcGIS 10.5 ([ESRI] Inc., Redlands CA, USA). A total of 41,176 individuals were surveyed, and 359 mycetoma patients were identified. The overall prevalence of mycetoma was 0.87% (95%CI = 0.78-0.97%), the prevalence among males was 0.83% (95%CI = 0.71-0.96%), and females 0.92% (95% CI = 0.79-1.06%). Individuals in the age group 31-45 years had the highest prevalence among the different age groups (1.52%, 95% CI = 1.23-1.86%). The prevalence map showed patients clustered within the central and north-eastern part of the locality, while villages in the south-western part had few or no cases. In conclusion, this clinical epidemiological study is pioneering and shows that mycetoma is prevalent in certain parts of Sudan. This data obtained will support the design of measures to reduce the disease burden in the state. The survey procedures and protocols can be adopted for further studies in Sudan and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowa Hassan
- Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Kebede Deribe
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Melanie Newport
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Sahar Bakhiet
- Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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