1
|
Badiane AS, Ngom B, Ndiaye T, Cunningham D, Campbell J, Gaye A, Sène A, Sy M, Ndiaye D, Nwakanma D, Langhorne J. Evidence of Plasmodium vivax circulation in western and eastern regions of Senegal: implications for malaria control. Malar J 2024; 23:149. [PMID: 38750583 PMCID: PMC11097470 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04932-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria elimination in Senegal requires accurate diagnosis of all Plasmodium species. Plasmodium falciparum is the most prevalent species in Senegal, although Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and recently Plasmodium vivax have also been reported. Nonetheless, most malaria control tools, such as Histidine Rich Protein 2 rapid diagnosis test (PfHRP2-RDT,) can only diagnose P. falciparum. Thus, PfHRP2-RDT misses non-falciparum species and P. falciparum infections that fall below the limit of detection. These limitations can be addressed using highly sensitive Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). This study assesses the burden of the four different Plasmodium species in western and eastern regions of Senegal using targeted PCR amplicon sequencing. METHODS Three thousand samples from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in 2021 from three sites in Senegal (Sessene, Diourbel region; Parcelles Assainies, Kaolack region; Gabou, Tambacounda region) were collected. All samples were tested using PfHRP2-RDT and photoinduced electron transfer polymerase chain reaction (PET-PCR), which detects all Plasmodium species. Targeted sequencing of the nuclear 18S rRNA and the mitochondrial cytochrome B genes was performed on PET-PCR positive samples. RESULTS Malaria prevalence by PfHRP2-RDT showed 9.4% (94/1000) and 0.2% (2/1000) in Diourbel (DBL) and Kaolack (KL), respectively. In Tambacounda (TAM) patients who had malaria symptoms and had a negative PfHRP2-RDT were enrolled. The PET-PCR had a positivity rate of 23.5% (295/1255) overall. The PET-PCR positivity rate was 37.6%, 12.3%, and 22.8% in Diourbel, Kaolack, and Tambacounda, respectively. Successful sequencing of 121/295 positive samples detected P. falciparum (93%), P. vivax (2.6%), P. malariae (4.4%), and P. ovale wallikeri (0.9%). Plasmodium vivax was co-identified with P. falciparum in thirteen samples. Sequencing also detected two PfHRP2-RDT-negative mono-infections of P. vivax in Tambacounda and Kaolack. CONCLUSION The findings demonstrate the circulation of P. vivax in western and eastern Senegal, highlighting the need for improved malaria control strategies and accurate diagnostic tools to better understand the prevalence of non-falciparum species countrywide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aida S Badiane
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Université Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar, Darkar, Sénégal.
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal.
| | - Bassirou Ngom
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Tolla Ndiaye
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Deirdre Cunningham
- Malaria Immunology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - James Campbell
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Science Technology Platforms (STP), The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Amy Gaye
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Aita Sène
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Mouhamad Sy
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Daouda Ndiaye
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Université Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar, Darkar, Sénégal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de Surveillance Sanitaire (CIGASS), Dakar, Sénégal
| | - Davis Nwakanma
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, P.O Box 273, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Jean Langhorne
- Malaria Immunology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gaither C, Morgan C, Kirby R, Karema C, Gashema P, White SJ, Topazian HM, Geibrecht D, Thwai K, Boyter K, Munyaneza T, Muvunyi CM, De Dieu Butera J, Bailey JA, Mazarati JB, Juliano JJ. Prevalence of Falciparum and non-Falciparum Malaria in the 2014-15 Rwanda Demographic Health Survey. medRxiv 2024:2024.01.09.24301054. [PMID: 38260604 PMCID: PMC10802648 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.09.24301054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background Malaria remains a major cause of morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa. Undetected asymptomatic falciparum malaria results in a large transmission reservoir and there is evidence of increasing non-falciparum malaria as malaria is controlled in Africa, both resulting in challenges for malaria control programs. Methods We performed quantitative real time PCR for 4 malaria species in 4,596 individuals from the 2014-2015 Rwanda Demographic Health Survey. Bivariate models were used to determine species-specific associations with risk factors. Results Asymptomatic falciparum malaria, P. ovale spp., and P. malariae infection had broad spatial distribution across Rwanda. P. vivax infection was rare. Overall infection prevalence was 23.6% (95%CI [21.7%, 26.0%]), with falciparum and non-falciparum at 17.6% [15.9%, 19.0%] and 8.3% [7.0%, 10.0%], respectively. Parasitemias tended to be low and mixed species infections were common, especially where malaria transmission was the highest. Falciparum infection was associated with socio-econiomic status, rural residence and low altitude. Few risk factors were associated with non-falciparum malaria. Conclusions Asymptomatic falciparum malaria and non-falciparum malaria are common and widely distributed across Rwanda. Continued molecular monitoring of Plasmodium spp. is needed to monitor these threats to malaria control in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gaither
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Camille Morgan
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Rebecca Kirby
- Department of Pathology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | | | - Samuel J White
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hillary M Topazian
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - David Geibrecht
- Department of Pathology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Kyaw Thwai
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Koby Boyter
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
LUUSE ARNOLDT, ALIDU HUSEINI, MAWULI1 MAWUSIADEPA, MUBARAK ABDULRAHMAN, GYAN BEN. Do Blood group and Sickle cell trait protect against placental malaria? J Public Health Afr 2023; 14:2817. [PMID: 38259428 PMCID: PMC10801398 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2024.2817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood group O is reported to confer some degree of protection from severe malaria in endemic setting. This protection is believed to be due to reduced and smaller rosette formation in people of blood group O which can easily be cleared by the host immune system. Also, sickle cell trait (HbAS) is reported to disrupt the adhesion of infected erythrocytes to microvascular endothelial walls, which could protect pregnant women from placental malaria. We determined the association between HbAS and ABO blood group, and placental malaria amongst pregnant women of all parities. The study enrolled 221 pregnant women. Peripheral blood samples were taken for malaria smears, ABO blood grouping and haemoglobin (Hb) electrophoresis. A structured questionnaire was used to age, bed net usage, and the number of Sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) doses taken by a pregnant woman. Two hundred and twenty-one (221) pregnant women were enrolled and out of this number, 110 (49.8%) were primiparae and 111 (50.2%) multiparae, with a mean age of 23.7±5.2. Placental malaria (PM) prevalence by PCR detection was 19.4% (43/221). Of those who were malaria positive 58.1% (25/43) were primiparae. Primiparae who are of blood group O were more susceptible to PM [P=0.04, (OR); 2.85, 95% (Cl), 1.12-9.01]. But sickle cell trait did not reduce the prevalence of PM [P=0.84 (OR); 0.92, 95% (Cl), 0.43-1.99]. Non-blood group O primiparae women were protected against placental malaria. This could be why some primiparae women are protected from PM, just like multiparae women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - HUSEINI ALIDU
- School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho
| | - MAWUSI ADEPA MAWULI1
- Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra
- Department of Pathology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | - ABDUL-RAHMAN MUBARAK
- West Africa Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens
- Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra
- Department of Pathology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Korle-Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | - BEN GYAN
- Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra
- Department of Immunology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sendor R, Banek K, Kashamuka MM, Mvuama N, Bala JA, Nkalani M, Kihuma G, Atibu J, Thwai KL, Svec WM, Goel V, Nseka T, Lin JT, Bailey JA, Emch M, Carrel M, Juliano JJ, Tshefu A, Parr JB. Epidemiology of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale spp. in Kinshasa Province, Democratic Republic of Congo. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6618. [PMID: 37857597 PMCID: PMC10587068 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42190-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Reports suggest non-falciparum species are an underappreciated cause of malaria in sub-Saharan Africa but their epidemiology is ill-defined, particularly in highly malaria-endemic regions. We estimated incidence and prevalence of PCR-confirmed non-falciparum and Plasmodium falciparum malaria infections within a longitudinal study conducted in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) between 2015-2017. Children and adults were sampled at biannual household surveys and routine clinic visits. Among 9,089 samples from 1,565 participants, incidences of P. malariae, P. ovale spp., and P. falciparum infections by 1-year were 7.8% (95% CI: 6.4%-9.1%), 4.8% (95% CI: 3.7%-5.9%) and 57.5% (95% CI: 54.4%-60.5%), respectively. Non-falciparum prevalences were higher in school-age children, rural and peri-urban sites, and P. falciparum co-infections. P. falciparum remains the primary driver of malaria in the DRC, though non-falciparum species also pose an infection risk. As P. falciparum interventions gain traction in high-burden settings, continued surveillance and improved understanding of non-falciparum infections are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Sendor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Kristin Banek
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Melchior M Kashamuka
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Nono Mvuama
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joseph A Bala
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Marthe Nkalani
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Georges Kihuma
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joseph Atibu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Kyaw L Thwai
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - W Matthew Svec
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Varun Goel
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Tommy Nseka
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jessica T Lin
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Center for Computational Molecular Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Margaret Carrel
- Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jonathan B Parr
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sendor R, Mitchell CL, Chacky F, Mohamed A, Mhamilawa LE, Molteni F, Nyinondi S, Kabula B, Mkali H, Reaves EJ, Serbantez N, Kitojo C, Makene T, Kyaw T, Muller M, Mwanza A, Eckert EL, Parr JB, Lin JT, Juliano JJ, Ngasala B. Similar Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum and Non-P. falciparum Malaria Infections among Schoolchildren, Tanzania 1. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1143-1153. [PMID: 37209670 DOI: 10.3201/eid2906.221016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Achieving malaria elimination requires considering both Plasmodium falciparum and non-P. falciparum infections. We determined prevalence and geographic distribution of 4 Plasmodium spp. by performing PCR on dried blood spots collected within 8 regions of Tanzania during 2017. Among 3,456 schoolchildren, 22% had P. falciparum, 24% had P. ovale spp., 4% had P. malariae, and 0.3% had P. vivax infections. Most (91%) schoolchildren with P. ovale infections had low parasite densities; 64% of P. ovale infections were single-species infections, and 35% of those were detected in low malaria endemic regions. P. malariae infections were predominantly (73%) co-infections with P. falciparum. P. vivax was detected mostly in northern and eastern regions. Co-infections with >1 non-P. falciparum species occurred in 43% of P. falciparum infections. A high prevalence of P. ovale infections exists among schoolchildren in Tanzania, underscoring the need for detection and treatment strategies that target non-P. falciparum species.
Collapse
|
6
|
Sendor R, Banek K, Kashamuka MM, Mvuama N, Bala JA, Nkalani M, Kihuma G, Atibu J, Thwai KL, Svec WM, Goel V, Nseka T, Lin JT, Bailey JA, Emch M, Carrel M, Juliano JJ, Tshefu A, Parr JB. Epidemiology of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale spp. in a highly malaria-endemic country: a longitudinal cohort study in Kinshasa Province, Democratic Republic of Congo. medRxiv 2023:2023.04.20.23288826. [PMID: 37790376 PMCID: PMC10543032 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.20.23288826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Increasing reports suggest that non-falciparum species are an underappreciated cause of malaria in sub-Saharan Africa, but their epidemiology is not well-defined. This is particularly true in regions of high P. falciparum endemicity such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where 12% of the world's malaria cases and 13% of deaths occur. Methods and Findings The cumulative incidence and prevalence of P. malariae and P. ovale spp. infection detected by real-time PCR were estimated among children and adults within a longitudinal study conducted in seven rural, peri-urban, and urban sites from 2015-2017 in Kinshasa Province, DRC. Participants were sampled at biannual household survey visits (asymptomatic) and during routine health facility visits (symptomatic). Participant-level characteristics associated with non-falciparum infections were estimated for single- and mixed-species infections. Among 9,089 samples collected from 1,565 participants over a 3-year period, the incidence of P. malariae and P. ovale spp. infection was 11% (95% CI: 9%-12%) and 7% (95% CI: 5%-8%) by one year, respectively, compared to a 67% (95% CI: 64%-70%) one-year cumulative incidence of P. falciparum infection. Incidence continued to rise in the second year of follow-up, reaching 26% and 15% in school-age children (5-14yo) for P. malariae and P. ovale spp., respectively. Prevalence of P. malariae, P. ovale spp., and P. falciparum infections during household visits were 3% (95% CI: 3%-4%), 1% (95% CI: 1%-2%), and 35% (95% CI: 33%-36%), respectively. Non-falciparum malaria was more prevalent in rural and peri-urban vs. urban sites, in school-age children, and among those with P. falciparum co-infection. A crude association was detected between P. malariae and any anemia in the symptomatic clinic population, although this association did not hold when stratified by anemia severity. No crude associations were detected between non-falciparum infection and fever prevalence. Conclusions P. falciparum remains the primary driver of malaria morbidity and mortality in the DRC. However, non-falciparum species also pose an infection risk across sites of varying urbanicity and malaria endemicity within Kinshasa, DRC, particularly among children under 15 years of age. As P. falciparum interventions gain traction in high-burden settings like the DRC, continued surveillance and improved understanding of non-falciparum infections are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Sendor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kristin Banek
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | - Nono Mvuama
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joseph A. Bala
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Marthe Nkalani
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Georges Kihuma
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joseph Atibu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Kyaw L. Thwai
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - W. Matthew Svec
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Varun Goel
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Tommy Nseka
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jessica T. Lin
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey A. Bailey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Center for Computational Molecular Biology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Margaret Carrel
- Department of Geographical and Sustainability Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Jonathan J. Juliano
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jonathan B. Parr
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mistry A, Odwar B, Olewe F, Kurtis J, Moormann AM, Ong’echa JM. Pediatric Participant Retention Rates in a Longitudinal Malaria Immunology Study. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 106:tpmd211052. [PMID: 35436763 PMCID: PMC9209909 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The resurgence of drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum parasites continues to motivate the development of a safe and efficacious malaria vaccine. Immuno-epidemiologic studies of naturally acquired immunity (NAI) have been a useful strategy to identify new malaria vaccine targets. However, retention of pediatric participants throughout longitudinal studies is essential for gathering comprehensive exposure and outcome data. Within the context of a 3-year cohort (N = 400) study involving monthly finger prick and bi-annual venous blood sample collections, we conducted qualitative surveys to assess factors impacting participant retention. Phase 1 was conducted 3 months after enrollment in July 2018 and phase 2, 12 months later. In phase 1, 236 parents/guardians participated in focus groups and three withdrawn participants and 10 community health volunteers (CHVs) in key informant interviews. Qualitative analysis indicated overall satisfaction with the study, with 61.8% (136/220 respondents) reporting no concerns. Focus group discussants associated attendance with benefits such as improved access to comprehensive healthcare services. Community health volunteers reported concerns over village rumors of inappropriate use of blood samples and dangers associated with venous blood draws. Phase 2 involved 205 parents/guardians and revealed continued satisfaction, with 46.3% (95/205) identifying no concerns, but expressed increasing worries regarding the amount of venous blood sample. This concern was reflected in an uptick of missed visits when venous blood samples were scheduled. Future studies will address parental concerns to determine whether community engagement and education measures increase study retention until completion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anushay Mistry
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Boaz Odwar
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | - Ann M. Moormann
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gumbo A, Topazian HM, Mwanza A, Mitchell CL, Puerto-Meredith S, Njiko R, Kayange M, Mwalilino D, Mvula B, Tegha G, Mvalo T, Hoffman I, Juliano JJ. Occurrence and Distribution of Nonfalciparum Malaria Parasite Species Among Adolescents and Adults in Malawi. J Infect Dis 2022; 225:257-268. [PMID: 34244739 PMCID: PMC8763954 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium falciparum malaria dominates throughout sub-Saharan Africa, but the prevalence of Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale spp., and Plasmodium vivax increasingly contribute to infection in countries that control malaria using P. falciparum-specific diagnostic and treatment strategies. METHODS We performed quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) on 2987 dried blood spots from the 2015-2016 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey to identify presence and distribution of nonfalciparum infection. Bivariate models were used to determine species-specific associations with demographic and environmental risk factors. RESULTS Nonfalciparum infections had broad spatial distributions. Weighted prevalence was 0.025 (SE, 0.004) for P. malariae, 0.097 (SE, 0.008) for P. ovale spp., and 0.001 (SE, 0.0005) for P. vivax. Most infections (85.6%) had low-density parasitemias ≤ 10 parasites/µL, and 66.7% of P. malariae, 34.6% of P. ovale spp., and 40.0% of P. vivax infections were coinfected with P. falciparum. Risk factors for P. malariae were like those known for P. falciparum; however, there were few risk factors recognized for P. ovale spp. and P. vivax, perhaps due to the potential for relapsing episodes. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of any nonfalciparum infection was 11.7%, with infections distributed across Malawi. Continued monitoring of Plasmodium spp. becomes critical as nonfalciparum infections become important sources of ongoing transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Austin Gumbo
- National Malaria Control Programme, Malawi Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Hillary M Topazian
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexis Mwanza
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Cedar L Mitchell
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sydney Puerto-Meredith
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ruth Njiko
- University of North Carolina Project-Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Michael Kayange
- National Malaria Control Programme, Malawi Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - David Mwalilino
- National HIV Reference Laboratory, Malawi Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Bernard Mvula
- National HIV Reference Laboratory, Malawi Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Gerald Tegha
- University of North Carolina Project-Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Tisungane Mvalo
- University of North Carolina Project-Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Irving Hoffman
- University of North Carolina Project-Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sumner KM, Mangeni JN, Obala AA, Freedman E, Abel L, Meshnick SR, Edwards JK, Pence BW, Prudhomme-O'Meara W, Taylor SM. Impact of asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infection on the risk of subsequent symptomatic malaria in a longitudinal cohort in Kenya. eLife 2021; 10:e68812. [PMID: 34296998 PMCID: PMC8337072 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infections are common in sub-Saharan Africa, but their effect on subsequent symptomaticity is incompletely understood. Methods In a 29-month cohort of 268 people in Western Kenya, we investigated the association between asymptomatic P. falciparum and subsequent symptomatic malaria with frailty Cox models. Results Compared to being uninfected, asymptomatic infections were associated with an increased 1 month likelihood of symptomatic malaria (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 2.61, 95% CI: 2.05 to 3.33), and this association was modified by sex, with females (aHR: 3.71, 95% CI: 2.62 to 5.24) at higher risk for symptomaticity than males (aHR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.24 to 2.50). This increased symptomatic malaria risk was observed for asymptomatic infections of all densities and in people of all ages. Long-term risk was attenuated but still present in children under age 5 (29-month aHR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.81). Conclusions In this high-transmission setting, asymptomatic P. falciparum can be quickly followed by symptoms and may be targeted to reduce the incidence of symptomatic illness. Funding This work was supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (R21AI126024 to WPO, R01AI146849 to WPO and SMT).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey M Sumner
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Duke UniversityDurhamUnited States
| | - Judith N Mangeni
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - Andrew A Obala
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - Elizabeth Freedman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Duke UniversityDurhamUnited States
| | - Lucy Abel
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Moi Teaching and Referral HospitalEldoretKenya
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
| | - Jessie K Edwards
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
| | - Brian W Pence
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
| | - Wendy Prudhomme-O'Meara
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Duke UniversityDurhamUnited States
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi UniversityEldoretKenya
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke UniversityDurhamUnited States
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North CarolinaChapel HillUnited States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Duke UniversityDurhamUnited States
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke UniversityDurhamUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Costescu Strachinaru DI, Wauters A, Van Esbroeck M, Strachinaru M, Vanbrabant P, Soentjens P. A Cluster of Plasmodium ovale Infections in Belgian Military Personnel after Deployment in Kindu, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Retrospective Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6030125. [PMID: 34287372 PMCID: PMC8293309 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6030125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium ovale malaria is often neglected due to its less severe course compared to Plasmodium falciparum. In 2011–2012, Belgian Armed Forces identified a cluster of P. ovale cases among military personnel after deployment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In this retrospective, monocentric, observational study, clinical and biological features of soldiers diagnosed with P. ovale after deployment in DRC were reviewed. Species diagnosis was based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or thick blood smear. Medical records of 149 soldiers screened at the Queen Astrid Military Hospital after deployment were reviewed. Eight cases (seven P. ovale infections and one P. ovale—falciparum coinfection) were identified. All had positive thick smears, and seven were confirmed by PCR. Chemoprophylaxis was mefloquine in all subjects. Median time of disease onset was 101 days after return from the endemic region. Median delay between return and diagnosis was 103 days. All P. ovale bouts were uncomplicated. None had relapses after primaquine treatment. This military cohort highlights a hotspot of P. ovale in Eastern DRC. Non-specific symptoms, the less severe presentation, the lack of sensitive parasitological tools in the field and long delays between infection and symptoms probably lead to underestimation of P. ovale cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Isabela Costescu Strachinaru
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, 1120 Brussels, Belgium; (P.V.); (P.S.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.W.); (M.V.E.)
- Correspondence:
| | - An Wauters
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.W.); (M.V.E.)
| | - Marjan Van Esbroeck
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.W.); (M.V.E.)
| | - Mihai Strachinaru
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Peter Vanbrabant
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, 1120 Brussels, Belgium; (P.V.); (P.S.)
- General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patrick Soentjens
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, 1120 Brussels, Belgium; (P.V.); (P.S.)
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.W.); (M.V.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Brazeau NF, Mitchell CL, Morgan AP, Deutsch-Feldman M, Watson OJ, Thwai KL, Gelabert P, van Dorp L, Keeler CY, Waltmann A, Emch M, Gartner V, Redelings B, Wray GA, Mwandagalirwa MK, Tshefu AK, Likwela JL, Edwards JK, Verity R, Parr JB, Meshnick SR, Juliano JJ. The epidemiology of Plasmodium vivax among adults in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4169. [PMID: 34234124 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24216-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Reports of P. vivax infections among Duffy-negative hosts have accumulated throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Despite this growing body of evidence, no nationally representative epidemiological surveys of P. vivax in sub-Saharan Africa have been performed. To overcome this gap in knowledge, we screened over 17,000 adults in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for P. vivax using samples from the 2013-2014 Demographic Health Survey. Overall, we found a 2.97% (95% CI: 2.28%, 3.65%) prevalence of P. vivax infections across the DRC. Infections were associated with few risk-factors and demonstrated a relatively flat distribution of prevalence across space with focal regions of relatively higher prevalence in the north and northeast. Mitochondrial genomes suggested that DRC P. vivax were distinct from circulating non-human ape strains and an ancestral European P. vivax strain, and instead may be part of a separate contemporary clade. Our findings suggest P. vivax is diffusely spread across the DRC at a low prevalence, which may be associated with long-term carriage of low parasitemia, frequent relapses, or a general pool of infections with limited forward propagation.
Collapse
|
12
|
Quaye IK, Aleksenko L, Oeuvray C, Yewhalaw D, Duah N, Gyan B, Haiyambo DH, Dongho GBD, Torgby RA, Amoah L, Hamid MA, Worku S, Bahiti AA, Pasquale HA, Bitshi M, Troare I, Diarra A, Njunju E, Cisse M, Soulama I, Savadogo RJ, Issifou S, Niangaly A, Dembele L, Greco B. The Pan African Vivax and Ovale Network (PAVON): Refocusing on Plasmodium vivax, ovale and asymptomatic malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. Parasitol Int 2021; 84:102415. [PMID: 34216801 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The recent World Malaria report shows that progress in malaria elimination has stalled. Current data acquisition by NMCPs depend on passive case detection and clinical reports focused mainly on Plasmodium falciparum (Pf). In recent times, several countries in sub-Saharan Africa have reported cases of Plasmodium vivax (Pv) with a considerable number being Duffy negative. The burden of Pv and Plasmodium ovale (Po) appear to be more than acknowledged. Similarly, the contribution of asymptomatic malaria in transmission is hardly considered by NMCPs in Africa. Inclusion of these as targets in malaria elimination agenda is necessary to achieve elimination goal, as these harbor hypnozoites. The Pan African Vivax and Ovale Network (PAVON) is a new consortium of African Scientists working in Africa on the transmission profile of Pv and Po. The group collaborates with African NMCPs to train in Plasmodium molecular diagnostics, microscopy, and interpretation of molecular data from active surveys to translate into policy. Details of the mission, rational and modus operandi of the group are outlined.
Collapse
|
13
|
Deutsch-Feldman M, Brazeau NF, Parr JB, Thwai KL, Muwonga J, Kashamuka M, Tshefu Kitoto A, Aydemir O, Bailey JA, Edwards JK, Verity R, Emch M, Gower EW, Juliano JJ, Meshnick SR. Spatial and epidemiological drivers of Plasmodium falciparum malaria among adults in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2020-002316. [PMID: 32601091 PMCID: PMC7326263 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adults are frequently infected with malaria and may serve as a reservoir for further transmission, yet we know relatively little about risk factors for adult infections. In this study, we assessed malaria risk factors among adults using samples from the nationally representative, cross-sectional 2013–2014 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). We further explored differences in risk factors by urbanicity. Methods Plasmodium falciparum infection was determined by PCR. Covariates were drawn from the DHS to model individual, community and environmental-level risk factors for infection. Additionally, we used deep sequencing data to estimate the community-level proportions of drug-resistant infections and included these estimates as potential risk factors. All identified factors were assessed for differences in associations by urbanicity. Results A total of 16 126 adults were included. Overall prevalence of malaria was 30.3% (SE=1.1) by PCR; province-level prevalence ranged from 6.7% to 58.3%. Only 17% of individuals lived in households with at least one bed-net for every two people, as recommended by the WHO. Protective factors included increasing within-household bed-net coverage (Prevalence Ratio=0.85, 95% CI=0.76–0.95) and modern housing (PR=0.58, 95% CI=0.49–0.69). Community-level protective factors included increased median wealth (PR=0.87, 95% CI=0.83–0.92). Education, wealth, and modern housing showed protective associations in cities but not in rural areas. Conclusions The DRC continues to suffer from a high burden of malaria; interventions that target high-risk groups and sustained investment in malaria control are sorely needed. Areas of high prevalence should be prioritised for interventions to target the largest reservoirs for further transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly Deutsch-Feldman
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas F Brazeau
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jonathan B Parr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyaw L Thwai
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeremie Muwonga
- National AIDS Control Program, Kinshasa, Congo (the Democratic Republic)
| | - Melchior Kashamuka
- School of Public Health, University of Kinshasa Faculty of Medicine, Kinshasa, Congo (the Democratic Republic)
| | - Antoinette Tshefu Kitoto
- School of Public Health, University of Kinshasa Faculty of Medicine, Kinshasa, Congo (the Democratic Republic)
| | - Ozkan Aydemir
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jessie K Edwards
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert Verity
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Emily W Gower
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hawadak J, Dongang Nana RR, Singh V. Global trend of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale spp. malaria infections in the last two decades (2000-2020): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:297. [PMID: 34082791 PMCID: PMC8173816 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04797-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent studies indicate that the prevalence of non-falciparum malaria, including Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale spp., is increasing, with some complications in infected individuals. The aim of this review is to provide a better understanding of the malaria prevalence and disease burden due to P. malariae and P. ovale spp. Methods The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the Joanna Briggs Institute prevalence study assessment tool were used to select and evaluate the studies, respectively. Six databases: PubMed, WHOLIS, Wiley Library, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and Google Scholar were used to screen articles published during the period January 2000–December 2020. The pooled prevalence estimates for P. malariae and P. ovale spp. were analysed using a random-effects model and the possible sources of heterogeneity were evaluated through subgroup analysis and meta-regression. Results Out of the 3297 studies screened, only 113 studies were included; among which 51.33% were from the African Region. The P. malariae and P. ovale spp. pooled prevalence were 2.01% (95% CI 1.31–2.85%) and 0.77% (95% CI 0.50–1.10%) respectively, with the highest prevalence in the African Region. P. malariae was equally distributed among adults (2.13%), children (2.90%) and pregnant women (2.77%) (p = 0.862), whereas P. ovale spp. was more prevalent in pregnant women (2.90%) than in children ≤ 15 years (0.97%) and in patients > 15 years old (0.39%) (p = 0.021). In this review, data analysis revealed that P. malariae and P. ovale spp. have decreased in the last 20 years, but not significantly, and these species were more commonly present with other Plasmodium species as co-infections. No difference in prevalence between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients was observed for either P. malariae or P. ovale spp. Conclusion Our analysis suggests that knowledge of the worldwide burden of P. malariae and P. ovale spp. is very important for malaria elimination programmes and a particular focus towards improved tools for monitoring transmission for these non-falciparum species should be stressed upon to deal with increased infections in the future. Graphic Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04797-0.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Hawadak
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, Sector 8, New-Delhi, 110077, India
| | - Rodrigue Roman Dongang Nana
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, Sector 8, New-Delhi, 110077, India.,Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, PO Box 13033, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Vineeta Singh
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, Dwarka, Sector 8, New-Delhi, 110077, India.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kambale-Kombi P, Marini Djang'eing'a R, Alworong'a Opara JP, Minon JM, Boemer F, Bours V, Tonen-Wolyec S, Kayembe Tshilumba C, Batina-Agasa S. Management of sickle cell disease: current practices and challenges in a northeastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 26:199-205. [PMID: 33594960 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2021.1880752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the third most affected country worldwide by sickle cell disease (SCD). However, this disease is still orphaned in the country; large-scale control actions are rare, and little is known about its management. OBJECTIVE To assess current practices in the management of SCD in Kisangani, DRC. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in six health facilities in Kisangani. It involved 198 presumed sickle cell patients attending the above health facilities. The study focused on the sociodemographic and clinical data of the participants, obtained through a clinical examination and their medical records. Diagnostic confirmation of SCD was made by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0. RESULTS The diagnosis of SCD was confirmed in 194 (98.0%; 95% CI: 94.9-99.2) participants, while it was not confirmed in 4 (2.0%; 95% CI: 0.8-5.1) participants. The diagnosis was mainly made by the Emmel test (42.9%). 45.8% of participants had previously been transfused with the blood of their parents. Folic acid was taken by 48.5% of participants and the previous intake of hydroxyurea was reported in 5.1% of participants. The participants vaccinated against Pneumococcus were 13.6% and against Haemophilus influenzae type b 28.3%. Penicillin prophylaxis was received by only 1.5% and malaria prophylaxis by 11.6% of participants. CONCLUSION Standard-care practices for SCD patients in Kisangani are insufficient. The Congolese government should regard this disease as a health priority and consider actions to improve its management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kambale-Kombi
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Roland Marini Djang'eing'a
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Vincent Bours
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Serge Tonen-Wolyec
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Charles Kayembe Tshilumba
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Salomon Batina-Agasa
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Parr JB, Kieto E, Phanzu F, Mansiangi P, Mwandagalirwa K, Mvuama N, Landela A, Atibu J, Efundu SU, Olenga JW, Thwai KL, Morgan CE, Denton M, Poffley A, Juliano JJ, Mungala P, Likwela JL, Sompwe EM, Rogier E, Tshefu AK, N'Siala A, Kalonji A. Analysis of false-negative rapid diagnostic tests for symptomatic malaria in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6495. [PMID: 33753817 PMCID: PMC7985209 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-85913-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of Plasmodium falciparum malaria diagnoses in Africa are made using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) that detect histidine-rich protein 2. Increasing reports of false-negative RDT results due to parasites with deletions of the pfhrp2 and/or pfhrp3 genes (pfhrp2/3) raise concern about existing malaria diagnostic strategies. We previously identified pfhrp2-negative parasites among asymptomatic children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), but their impact on diagnosis of symptomatic malaria is unknown. We performed a cross-sectional study of false-negative RDTs in symptomatic subjects in 2017. Parasites were characterized by microscopy; RDT; pfhrp2/3 genotyping and species-specific PCR assays; a bead-based immunoassay for Plasmodium antigens; and/or whole-genome sequencing. Among 3627 symptomatic subjects, 427 (11.8%) had RDT-/microscopy + results. Parasites from eight (0.2%) samples were initially classified as putative pfhrp2/3 deletions by PCR, but antigen testing and whole-genome sequencing confirmed the presence of intact genes. 56.8% of subjects had PCR-confirmed malaria. Non-falciparum co-infection with P. falciparum was common (13.2%). Agreement between PCR and HRP2-based RDTs was satisfactory (Cohen's kappa = 0.66) and superior to microscopy (0.33). Symptomatic malaria due to pfhrp2/3-deleted P. falciparum was not observed. Ongoing HRP2-based RDT use is appropriate for the detection of falciparum malaria in the DRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan B Parr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Eddy Kieto
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Fernandine Phanzu
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Paul Mansiangi
- University of Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Nono Mvuama
- University of Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Ange Landela
- Institut National Pour La Recherche Biomedicale, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joseph Atibu
- University of Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Jean W Olenga
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Kyaw Lay Thwai
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Camille E Morgan
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Madeline Denton
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Alison Poffley
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Pomie Mungala
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Joris L Likwela
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Eric M Sompwe
- Programme National de La Lutte Contre Le Paludisme, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Eric Rogier
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30033, USA
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- University of Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Adrien N'Siala
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Albert Kalonji
- SANRU Asbl (Sante Rurale/Global Fund), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kiyonga Aimeé K, Lengu TB, Nsibu CN, Umesumbu SE, Ngoyi DM, Chen T. Molecular detection and species identification of Plasmodium spp. infection in adults in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A population-based study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242713. [PMID: 33227017 PMCID: PMC7682816 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In efforts to control malaria infection, the Democratic Republic of Congo has implemented several strategies. Studies assessing their efficiency mainly involved at-risk groups, especially children under five years of age. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with Plasmodium spp. infection. Methods From October 2014 to March 2015, individuals aged at least 15 years were selected randomly and enrolled in a cross-sectional study conducted throughout the country. Microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis were used for the detection of Plasmodium ssp. Results From 2286 individuals recruited, 1870 with valid laboratory results were included in the study for further analysis. The prevalence of Plasmodium spp. infection assessed by microscopy (355/ 1870 (19%) was lower than that estimated by PCR (580/1870 (31%). In addition, the difference between the two results was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). The most prevalent Plasmodium species was P. falciparum, either as mono-infection (96.3%; 95% C.I. 93.9–98.1) or combined with P. malariae (3.7%; 95% C.I. 2.8–5.9). The mean parasite density was 3272739 trophozoites/μL of blood. Women had higher risks of being infected than men (OR 2.03, 95% C.I.: 1.96. 2.62, P = 0.041)]. Conclusion In this study, the molecular detection and species identification of Plasmodium spp. showed that, despite all efforts for malaria control, malaria remains a public health problem in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The high prevalence and parasite density of Plasmodium spp. in adults make this age group a potential parasitic infectious reservoir for the at-risk groups and supports the need to include this age group in further programs for malaria control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kahindo Kiyonga Aimeé
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Tropical Medicine Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- * E-mail:
| | - Thierry Bobanga Lengu
- Department of Tropical Medicine Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Célestin Ndosimao Nsibu
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Programme National de Lutte Contre le Paludisme (PNLP), Kinshasa, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Solange Efundu Umesumbu
- Programme National de Lutte Contre le Paludisme (PNLP), Kinshasa, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Dieudonné Mumba Ngoyi
- Department of Tropical Medicine Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Tie Chen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ghilardi L, Okello G, Nyondo-Mipando L, Chirambo CM, Malongo F, Hoyt J, Lee J, Sedekia Y, Parkhurst J, Lines J, Snow RW, Lynch CA, Webster J. How useful are malaria risk maps at the country level? Perceptions of decision-makers in Kenya, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Malar J 2020; 19:353. [PMID: 33008465 PMCID: PMC7530951 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03425-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Declining malaria prevalence and pressure on external funding have increased the need for efficiency in malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Modelled Plasmodium falciparum parasite rate (PfPR) maps are increasingly becoming available and provide information on the epidemiological situation of countries. However, how these maps are understood or used for national malaria planning is rarely explored. In this study, the practices and perceptions of national decision-makers on the utility of malaria risk maps, showing prevalence of parasitaemia or incidence of illness, was investigated. Methods A document review of recent National Malaria Strategic Plans was combined with 64 in-depth interviews with stakeholders in Kenya, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The document review focused on the type of epidemiological maps included and their use in prioritising and targeting interventions. Interviews (14 Kenya, 17 Malawi, 27 DRC, 6 global level) explored drivers of stakeholder perceptions of the utility, value and limitations of malaria risk maps. Results Three different types of maps were used to show malaria epidemiological strata: malaria prevalence using a PfPR modelled map (Kenya); malaria incidence using routine health system data (Malawi); and malaria prevalence using data from the most recent Demographic and Health Survey (DRC). In Kenya the map was used to target preventative interventions, including long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) and intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp), whilst in Malawi and DRC the maps were used to target in-door residual spraying (IRS) and LLINs distributions in schools. Maps were also used for operational planning, supply quantification, financial justification and advocacy. Findings from the interviews suggested that decision-makers lacked trust in the modelled PfPR maps when based on only a few empirical data points (Malawi and DRC). Conclusions Maps were generally used to identify areas with high prevalence in order to implement specific interventions. Despite the availability of national level modelled PfPR maps in all three countries, they were only used in one country. Perceived utility of malaria risk maps was associated with the epidemiological structure of the country and use was driven by perceived need, understanding (quality and relevance), ownership and trust in the data used to develop the maps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Ghilardi
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - George Okello
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O. Box 43640-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Nyondo-Mipando
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Fathy Malongo
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, University of Kinshasa, Mont Amba/Lemba, BP 11850 Kin I, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jenna Hoyt
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jieun Lee
- World Vision UK, 1rb, 11 Belgrave Rd, Pimlico, London, SW1V 1RB, UK
| | - Yovitha Sedekia
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU)/ National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR)- Mwanza Research Centre, P.O BOX 11936, Isamilo road, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Justin Parkhurst
- London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton Street, London, WC2A 2AE, UK
| | - Jo Lines
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Robert W Snow
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, P.O. Box 43640-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 7LJ, Oxford, UK
| | - Caroline A Lynch
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jayne Webster
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mitchell CL, Brazeau NF, Keeler C, Mwandagalirwa MK, Tshefu AK, Juliano JJ, Meshnick SR. Under the Radar: Epidemiology of Plasmodium ovale in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. J Infect Dis 2020; 223:1005-1014. [PMID: 32766832 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium ovale is an understudied malaria species prevalent throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. Little is known about the distribution of ovale malaria and risk factors for infection in areas of high malaria endemicity. METHODS Using the 2013 Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Demographic and Health Survey, we conducted a risk factor analysis for P. ovale infections. We evaluated geographic clustering of infections and speciated to P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri through deep sequencing. RESULTS Of 18 149 adults tested, we detected 143 prevalent P. ovale infections (prevalence estimate 0.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI], .59%-.98%). Prevalence ratios (PR) for significant risk factors were: male sex PR = 2.12 (95% CI, 1.38-3.26), coprevalent P. falciparum PR = 3.52 (95% CI, 2.06-5.99), and rural residence PR = 2.19 (95% CI, 1.31-3.66). P. ovale was broadly distributed throughout the DRC; an elevated cluster of infections was detected in the south-central region. Speciation revealed P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri circulating throughout the country. CONCLUSIONS P. ovale persists broadly in the DRC, a high malaria burden country. For successful elimination of all malaria species, P. ovale needs to be on the radar of malaria control programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cedar L Mitchell
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas F Brazeau
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Corinna Keeler
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Melchior Kashamuka Mwandagalirwa
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Kinshasa School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Manda S, Haushona N, Bergquist R. A Scoping Review of Spatial Analysis Approaches Using Health Survey Data in Sub-Saharan Africa. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E3070. [PMID: 32354095 PMCID: PMC7246597 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Spatial analysis has become an increasingly used analytic approach to describe and analyze spatial characteristics of disease burden, but the depth and coverage of its usage for health surveys data in Sub-Saharan Africa are not well known. The objective of this scoping review was to conduct an evaluation of studies using spatial statistics approaches for national health survey data in the SSA region. An organized literature search for studies related to spatial statistics and national health surveys was conducted through PMC, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, NLM Catalog, and Science Direct electronic databases. Of the 4,193 unique articles identified, 153 were included in the final review. Spatial smoothing and prediction methods were predominant (n = 108), followed by spatial description aggregation (n = 25), and spatial autocorrelation and clustering (n = 19). Bayesian statistics methods and lattice data modelling were predominant (n = 108). Most studies focused on malaria and fever (n = 47) followed by health services coverage (n = 38). Only fifteen studies employed nonstandard spatial analyses (e.g., spatial model assessment, joint spatial modelling, accounting for survey design). We recommend that for future spatial analysis using health survey data in the SSA region, there must be an improve recognition and awareness of the potential dangers of a naïve application of spatial statistical methods. We also recommend a wide range of applications using big health data and the future of data science for health systems to monitor and evaluate impacts that are not well understood at local levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Manda
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Statistics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
| | - Ndamonaonghenda Haushona
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica T Lin
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Jonathan B Parr
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Billy Ngasala
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Deutsch-Feldman M, Aydemir O, Carrel M, Brazeau NF, Bhatt S, Bailey JA, Kashamuka M, Tshefu AK, Taylor SM, Juliano JJ, Meshnick SR, Verity R. The changing landscape of Plasmodium falciparum drug resistance in the Democratic Republic of Congo. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:872. [PMID: 31640574 PMCID: PMC6805465 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4523-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug resistant malaria is a growing concern in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where previous studies indicate that parasites resistant to sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine or chloroquine are spatially clustered. This study explores longitudinal changes in spatial patterns to understand how resistant malaria may be spreading within the DRC, using samples from nation-wide population-representative surveys. METHODS We selected 552 children with PCR-detectable Plasmodium falciparum infection and identified known variants in the pfdhps and pfcrt genes associated with resistance. We compared the proportion of mutant parasites in 2013 to those previously reported from adults in 2007, and identified risk factors for carrying a resistant allele using multivariate mixed-effects modeling. Finally, we fit a spatial-temporal model to the observed data, providing smooth allele frequency estimates over space and time. RESULTS The proportion of co-occurring pfdhps K540E/A581G mutations increased by 16% between 2007 and 2013. The spatial-temporal model suggests that the spatial range of the pfdhps double mutants expanded over time, while the prevalence and range of pfcrt mutations remained steady. CONCLUSIONS This study uses population-representative samples to describe the changing landscape of SP resistance within the DRC, and the persistence of chloroquine resistance. Vigilant molecular surveillance is critical for controlling the spread of resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly Deutsch-Feldman
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA.
| | - Ozkan Aydemir
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Margaret Carrel
- Department of Geographical & Sustainability Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Nicholas F Brazeau
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Samir Bhatt
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Melchior Kashamuka
- Ecole de Santé Publique, , Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, , Faculté de Médecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA.,Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Robert Verity
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Aydemir O, Janko M, Hathaway NJ, Verity R, Mwandagalirwa MK, Tshefu AK, Tessema SK, Marsh PW, Tran A, Reimonn T, Ghani AC, Ghansah A, Juliano JJ, Greenhouse BR, Emch M, Meshnick SR, Bailey JA. Drug-Resistance and Population Structure of Plasmodium falciparum Across the Democratic Republic of Congo Using High-Throughput Molecular Inversion Probes. J Infect Dis 2018; 218:946-955. [PMID: 29718283 PMCID: PMC6093412 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A better understanding of the drivers of the spread of malaria parasites and drug resistance across space and time is needed. These drivers can be elucidated using genetic tools. Here, a novel molecular inversion probe (MIP) panel targeting all major drug-resistance mutations and a set of microsatellites was used to genotype Plasmodium falciparum infections of 552 children from the 2013-2014 Demographic and Health Survey conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Microsatellite-based analysis of population structure suggests that parasites within the DRC form a homogeneous population. In contrast, sulfadoxine-resistance markers in dihydropteroate synthase show marked spatial structure with ongoing spread of double and triple mutants compared with 2007. These findings suggest that parasites in the DRC remain panmictic despite rapidly spreading antimalarial-resistance mutations. Moreover, highly multiplexed targeted sequencing using MIPs emerges as a cost-effective method for elucidating pathogen genetics in complex infections in large cohorts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ozkan Aydemir
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts, Worcester
| | - Mark Janko
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Nick J Hathaway
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts, Worcester
| | - Robert Verity
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- Community Health, Kinshasa School of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Patrick W Marsh
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts, Worcester
| | - Alice Tran
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts, Worcester
| | - Thomas Reimonn
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts, Worcester
| | - Azra C Ghani
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Anita Ghansah
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute of Medical Research, Ghana
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Curriculum in Genetics and Microbiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | | | - Michael Emch
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts, Worcester
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Levitz L, Janko M, Mwandagalirwa K, Thwai KL, Likwela JL, Tshefu AK, Emch M, Meshnick SR. Effect of individual and community-level bed net usage on malaria prevalence among under-fives in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Malar J 2018; 17:39. [PMID: 29347953 PMCID: PMC5774036 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2183-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding the contribution of community-level long-lasting, insecticidal net (LLIN) coverage to malaria control is critical to planning and assessing intervention campaigns. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has one of the highest burdens of malaria cases and deaths and has dramatically scaled up LLIN ownership in recent years thus it is an ideal setting to evaluate the effect of individual versus community-level use to prevent malaria among children under the age of 5. Results Data were derived from the 2013–2014 DRC Demographic and Health Survey. Community-level LLIN usage was significantly associated with protection against malaria, even when individual-level LLIN usage was included in the model. In stratified analysis, higher levels of community LLIN coverage enhanced the protective effect of individual LLIN usage, resulting in lower malaria prevalence among individuals who used a LLIN. A sub-analysis of individual LLIN usage by insecticide type revealed deltamethrin-treated nets were more protective than permethrin-treated nets, suggesting that mosquitoes in the DRC are more susceptible to deltamethrin. Conclusions This study examines the effects of individual and community-level LLIN usage in young children in an area of high ITN usage. Individual and community LLIN usage were significantly associated with protection against malaria in children under 5 in the DRC. Importantly, the protective effect of individual LLIN usage against malaria is enhanced when community LLIN coverage is higher, demonstrating the importance of increasing community-level LLIN usage. LLINs treated with deltamethrin were shown to be more protective against malaria than LLINs treated with permethrin. Demographic and Health Surveys are thus a novel and important means of surveillance for insecticide resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Levitz
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health, 135 Dauer Drive, 3113 Michael Hooker Research Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Mark Janko
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | | | - Kyaw L Thwai
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health, 135 Dauer Drive, 3113 Michael Hooker Research Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Joris L Likwela
- Programme National de la Lutte contre le Paludisme, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- University of Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Global Public Health, 135 Dauer Drive, 3113 Michael Hooker Research Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Miller RH, Hathaway NJ, Kharabora O, Mwandagalirwa K, Tshefu A, Meshnick SR, Taylor SM, Juliano JJ, Stewart VA, Bailey JA. A deep sequencing approach to estimate Plasmodium falciparum complexity of infection (COI) and explore apical membrane antigen 1 diversity. Malar J 2017; 16:490. [PMID: 29246158 PMCID: PMC5732508 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-017-2137-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Humans living in regions with high falciparum malaria transmission intensity harbour multi-strain infections comprised of several genetically distinct malaria haplotypes. The number of distinct malaria parasite haplotypes identified from an infected human host at a given time is referred to as the complexity of infection (COI). In this study, an amplicon-based deep sequencing method targeting the Plasmodium falciparum apical membrane antigen 1 (pfama1) was utilized to (1) investigate the relationship between P. falciparum prevalence and COI, (2) to explore the population genetic structure of P. falciparum parasites from malaria asymptomatic individuals participating in the 2007 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and (3) to explore selection pressures on geospatially divergent parasite populations by comparing AMA1 amino acid frequencies in the DRC and Mali. RESULTS A total of 900 P. falciparum infections across 11 DRC provinces were examined. Deep sequencing of both individuals, for COI analysis, and pools of individuals, to examine population structure, identified 77 unique pfama1 haplotypes. The majority of individual infections (64.5%) contained polyclonal (COI > 1) malaria infections based on the presence of genetically distinct pfama1 haplotypes. A minimal correlation between COI and malaria prevalence as determined by sensitive real-time PCR was identified. Population genetic analyses revealed extensive haplotype diversity, the vast majority of which was shared across the sites. AMA1 amino acid frequencies were similar between parasite populations in the DRC and Mali. CONCLUSIONS Amplicon-based deep sequencing is a useful tool for the detection of multi-strain infections that can aid in the understanding of antigen heterogeneity of potential malaria vaccine candidates, population genetics of malaria parasites, and factors that influence complex, polyclonal malaria infections. While AMA1 and other diverse markers under balancing selection may perform well for understanding COI, they may offer little geographic or temporal discrimination between parasite populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin H Miller
- Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nicholas J Hathaway
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Oksana Kharabora
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kashamuka Mwandagalirwa
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Université de Kinshasa, Commune de Lemba, P.O Box 11850, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Université de Kinshasa, Commune de Lemba, P.O Box 11850, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, 303 Research Drive, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jonathan J Juliano
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - V Ann Stewart
- Uniformed Services University, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Baraka V, Delgado-Ratto C, Nag S, Ishengoma DS, Madebe RA, Mavoko HM, Nabasumba C, Lutumba P, Alifrangis M, Van Geertruyden JP. Different origin and dispersal of sulfadoxine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum haplotypes between Eastern Africa and Democratic Republic of Congo. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2017; 49:456-464. [PMID: 28237831 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2016.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (SP) is still used for malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa; however, widespread resistance is a major concern. This study aimed to determine the dispersal and origin of sulfadoxine resistance lineages in the Democratic Republic of the Congo compared with East African Plasmodium falciparum dihydropteroate synthetase (Pfdhps) haplotypes. The analysis involved 264 isolates collected from patients with uncomplicated malaria from Tanzania, Uganda and DR Congo. Isolates were genotyped for Pfdhps mutations at codons 436, 437, 540, 581 and 613. Three microsatellite loci (0.8, 4.3 and 7.7 kb) flanking the Pfdhps gene were assayed. Evolutionary analysis revealed a shared origin of Pfdhps haplotypes in East Africa, with a distinct population clustering in DR Congo. Furthermore, in Tanzania there was an independent distinct origin of Pfdhps SGEGA resistant haplotype. In Uganda and Tanzania, gene flow patterns contribute to the dispersal and shared origin of parasites carrying double- and triple-mutant Pfdhps haplotypes associated with poor outcomes of intermittent preventive treatment during pregnancy using SP (IPTp-SP). However, the origins of the Pfdhps haplotypes in DR Congo and Eastern Africa sites are different. The genetic structure demonstrated a divergent and distinct population cluster predominated by single-mutant Pfdhps haplotypes at the DR Congo site. This reflects the limited dispersal of double- and triple-mutant Pfdhps haplotypes in DR Congo. This study highlights the current genetic structure and dispersal of high-grade Pfdhps resistant haplotypes, which is important to guide implementation of SP in malaria chemoprevention strategies in the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vito Baraka
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, P.O. Box 5004, Tanga, United Republic of Tanzania; Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | | | - Sidsel Nag
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, National University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Deus S Ishengoma
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, P.O. Box 5004, Tanga, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Rashid A Madebe
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research Centre, P.O. Box 5004, Tanga, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Hypolite Muhindo Mavoko
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Département de Médecine Tropicale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, B.P. 747 Kin XI, Kinshasa, The Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Carolyn Nabasumba
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Epicentre Mbarara Research Base, P.O. Box 930, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Pascal Lutumba
- Département de Médecine Tropicale, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, B.P. 747 Kin XI, Kinshasa, The Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Michael Alifrangis
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, National University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kadima BT, Gini-Ehungu JL, Mbutiwi FIN, Bahati JT, Aloni MN. Validity of simple clinical and biological parameters as screening tool for sickle cell anemia for referral to tertiary center in highly resource constraints. J Clin Lab Anal 2017; 31. [PMID: 28094443 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.22145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the incidence of sickle cell anemia (SCA) is estimated around 40 000 neonates per year. However, it is notoriously difficult to perform conventional electrophoresis in all hospitals and laboratories, especially at peripheral levels and rural area. A panel of multiple clinical and laboratory features that would enhance sickle cell disease were assessed for the detection of the disease in highly resource-scarce settings. METHODS A prospective study was conducted in Kinshasa. Venous blood samples were drawn from each study participant in order to determine the hematologic parameters, the peripheral smears, and the hemoglobin electrophoresis. We used Cohen's κ statistic to examine the agreement of each variable and diagnosis of sickle cell disease. RESULTS A total of 807 patients were screened for sickle cell disease. Among these 807 children, 36 (4.5%) were homozygous for Hb S disease. The presence of at least 8% erythroblasts (PPV: 91%, NPV: 99%, sensitivity: 83.3%, specificity: 99.6%, κ value: .86) and sickle cells (PPV:100%, NPV: 98%, sensitivity: 50%, specificity: 100%, κ value: .66) in the peripheral blood smear had an acceptable agreement for sickle cell disease. CONCLUSION These two biological markers may guide the clinician in the decision-making to initiate the management of the children as a sickle cell patient, pending confirmation of the disease by electrophoresis techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bertin Tshimanga Kadima
- Division of Paediatric Hemato-Oncology and Nephrology, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jean Lambert Gini-Ehungu
- Division of Paediatric Hemato-Oncology and Nephrology, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - John Tunda Bahati
- Department of Anaesthesiology University Hospital of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Michel Ntetani Aloni
- Division of Paediatric Hemato-Oncology and Nephrology, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Liu Y, Mwapasa V, Khairallah C, Thwai KL, Kalilani-Phiri L, Ter Kuile FO, Meshnick SR, Taylor SM. Rapid Diagnostic Test Performance Assessed Using Latent Class Analysis for the Diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum Placental Malaria. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2016; 95:835-839. [PMID: 27527628 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental malaria causes low birth weight and neonatal mortality in malaria-endemic areas. The diagnosis of placental malaria is important for program evaluation and clinical care, but is compromised by the suboptimal performance of current diagnostics. Using placental and peripheral blood specimens collected from delivering women in Malawi, we compared estimation of the operating characteristics of microscopy, rapid diagnostic test (RDT), polymerase chain reaction, and histopathology using both a traditional contingency table and a latent class analysis (LCA) approach. The prevalence of placental malaria by histopathology was 13.8%; concordance between tests was generally poor. Relative to histopathology, RDT sensitivity was 79.5% in peripheral and 66.2% in placental blood; using LCA, RDT sensitivities increased to 93.7% and 80.2%, respectively. Our results, if replicated in other cohorts, indicate that RDT testing of peripheral or placental blood may be suitable approaches to detect placental malaria for surveillance programs, including areas where intermittent preventive therapy in pregnancy is not used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunhao Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Department of Statistics and Operations Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Victor Mwapasa
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi. Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Carole Khairallah
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kyaw L Thwai
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | - Feiko O Ter Kuile
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina. Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Doctor SM, Liu Y, Anderson OG, Whitesell AN, Mwandagalirwa MK, Muwonga J, Keeler C, Emch M, Likwela JL, Tshefu A, Meshnick SR. Low prevalence of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale mono-infections among children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a population-based, cross-sectional study. Malar J 2016; 15:350. [PMID: 27392905 PMCID: PMC4938993 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-016-1409-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In an effort to improve surveillance for epidemiological and clinical outcomes, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have become increasingly widespread as cost-effective and field-ready methods of malaria diagnosis. However, there are concerns that using RDTs specific to Plasmodium falciparum may lead to missed detection of other malaria species such as Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium ovale. Methods Four hundred and sixty six samples were selected from children under 5 years old in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) who took part in a Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) in 2013–14. These samples were first tested for all Plasmodium species using an 18S ribosomal RNA-targeted real-time PCR; malaria-positive samples were then tested for P. falciparum, P. malariae and P.ovale using a highly sensitive nested PCR. Results The prevalence of P. falciparum, P. malariae and P. ovale were 46.6, 12.9 and 8.3 %, respectively. Most P. malariae and P. ovale infections were co-infected with P. falciparum—the prevalence of mono-infections of these species were only 1.0 and 0.6 %, respectively. Six out of these eight mono-infections were negative by RDT. The prevalence of P. falciparum by the more sensitive nested PCR was higher than that found previously by real-time PCR. Conclusions Plasmodium malariae and P. ovale remain endemic at a low rate in the DRC, but the risk of missing malarial infections of these species due to falciparum-specific RDT use is low. The observed prevalence of P. falciparum is higher with a more sensitive PCR method. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12936-016-1409-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Doctor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7435, USA
| | - Yunhao Liu
- Department of Statistics and Operations Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Olivia G Anderson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7435, USA
| | - Amy N Whitesell
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7435, USA
| | - Melchior Kashamuka Mwandagalirwa
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7435, USA.,Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Medecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jérémie Muwonga
- Programme National de Lutte contre le SIDA et les IST, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Corinna Keeler
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7435, USA.,Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Joris L Likwela
- Programme National de Lutte contre le Paludisme, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Medecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7435, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Benedetti G, Mossoko M, Nyakio Kakusu JP, Nyembo J, Mangion JP, Van Laeken D, Van den Bergh R, Van den Boogaard W, Manzi M, Kibango WK, Hermans V, Beijnsberger J, Lambert V, Kitenge E. Sparks creating light? Strengthening peripheral disease surveillance in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Public Health Action 2016; 6:54-9. [PMID: 27358796 DOI: 10.5588/pha.15.0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
SETTING The Democratic Republic of Congo suffers from an amalgam of disease outbreaks and other medical emergencies. An efficient response to these relies strongly on the national surveillance system. The Pool d'Urgence Congo (PUC, Congo Emergency Team) of Médecins Sans Frontières is a project that responds to emergencies in highly remote areas through short-term vertical interventions, during which it uses the opportunity of its presence to reinforce the local surveillance system. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the ancillary strengthening of the peripheral surveillance system during short-term interventions leads to improved disease notification. DESIGN A descriptive paired study measuring disease notification before and after 12 PUC interventions in 2013-2014. RESULTS A significant increase in disease notification was observed after seven mass-vaccination campaigns and was sustained over 6 months. For the remaining five smaller-scaled interventions, no significant effects were observed. CONCLUSION The observed improvements after even short-term interventions underline, on the one hand, how external emergency actors can positively affect the system through their punctuated actions, and, on the other hand, the dire need for investment in surveillance at peripheral level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Benedetti
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - M Mossoko
- Ministère de la Santé Publique, Secrétariat Général à la Santé, Direction de Lutte contre la Maladie, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - J P Nyakio Kakusu
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - J Nyembo
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - J P Mangion
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - D Van Laeken
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - R Van den Bergh
- MSF, Medical Department (Operational Research), Operational Centre Brussels (OCB), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - W Van den Boogaard
- MSF, Medical Department (Operational Research), Operational Centre Brussels (OCB), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - M Manzi
- MSF, Medical Department (Operational Research), Operational Centre Brussels (OCB), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | | | - V Hermans
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - J Beijnsberger
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - E Kitenge
- Ministère de la Santé Publique, Secrétariat Général à la Santé, Direction de Lutte contre la Maladie, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kabongo Kamitalu R, Aloni MN. High School Students Are a Target Group for Fight against Self-Medication with Antimalarial Drugs: A Pilot Study in University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. J Trop Med 2016; 2016:6438639. [PMID: 27340411 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6438639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim. To assess the self-medication against malaria infection in population of Congolese students in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out in University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. Medical records of all students with malaria admitted to Centre de Santé Universitaire of University of Kinshasa from January 1, 2008, to April 30, 2008, were reviewed retrospectively. Results. The median age of the patients was 25.4 years (range: from 18 to 36 years). The majority of them were male (67.9%). Artemisinin-based combination treatments (ACTs) was the most used self-prescribed antimalarial drugs. However, self-medication was associated with the ingestion of quinine in 19.9% of cases. No case of ingestion of artesunate/artemether in monotherapy was found. All the medicines taken were registered in DRC. In this series, self-prescribed antimalarial was very irrational in terms of dose and duration of treatment. Conclusion. This paper highlights self-medication by a group who should be aware of malaria treatment protocols. The level of self-prescribing quinine is relatively high among students and is disturbing for a molecule reserved for severe disease in Congolese health care policy in management of malaria.
Collapse
|
32
|
Mvumbi DM, Lengu Bobanga T, Umesumbu SE, Kunyu BS, Ntumba Kayembe JM, Situakibanza NTH, Mvumbi GL, Melin P, De Mol P, Hayette MP. Investigation on possible transmission of monkeys' Plasmodium to human in a populations living in the equatorial rainforest of the Democratic republic of Congo. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2016; 5:1-4. [PMID: 27141437 PMCID: PMC4840266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Plasmodiums are protozoa that may infect various hosts. Only five species are now recognized as naturally parasitizing humans: Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium knowlesi. This fifth species, P. knowlesi, previously identified as naturally parasitizing the monkey Macaca fascicularis, has been microscopically confused for a long time with P. malariae or P. falciparum and it was not possible to correctly differentiate them until the advent of molecular biology. To date, natural human infections with P. knowlesi only occur in Southeast Asia and a similar phenomenon of natural transmission of simian plasmodium to humans has not been reported elsewhere. This study was conducted to investigate a possible transmission of African small monkey's plasmodium to humans in populations living near the rainforest of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where several species of non-human primates are living. Two successive real-time PCRs were identified in the literature and used in combination for purpose. Only P. falciparum was found in this study. However, studies with larger samples and with more advanced techniques should be conducted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dieudonné Makaba Mvumbi
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Thierry Lengu Bobanga
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Billy Shako Kunyu
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jean-Marie Ntumba Kayembe
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Nani-Tuma H. Situakibanza
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Georges Lelo Mvumbi
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Pierrette Melin
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Patrick De Mol
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marie-Pierre Hayette
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Patel JC, Mwapasa V, Kalilani L, Ter Kuile FO, Khairallah C, Thwai KL, Meshnick SR, Taylor SM. Absence of Association Between Sickle Trait Hemoglobin and Placental Malaria Outcomes. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2016; 94:1002-7. [PMID: 27001763 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous hemoglobin S (HbAS), or sickle trait, protects children from life-threatening falciparum malaria, potentially by attenuating binding of Plasmodium-infected red blood cells (iRBCs) to extracellular ligands. Such binding is central to the pathogenesis of placental malaria (PM). We hypothesized that HbAS would be associated with reduced risks of PM and low birth weight (LBW). We tested this hypothesis in 850 delivering women in southern Malawi. Parasites were detected by polymerase chain reaction in placental and peripheral blood, and placentae were scored histologically for PM. The prevalence of HbAS was 3.7%, and 11.2% of infants were LBW (< 2,500 g). The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum was 12.7% in placental and 8.5% in peripheral blood; 24.4% of placentae demonstrated histological evidence of P. falciparum HbAS was not associated with reduced prevalence of P. falciparum in placental (odds ratio [OR]: 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50-3.23, P = 0.61) or peripheral blood (OR: 2.53, 95% CI: 1.08-2.54, P = 0.03), prevalence of histological PM (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.40-2.34, P = 0.95), or prevalence of LBW (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.24-2.73, P = 0.74). Mean (standard deviation) birth weights of infants born to HbAS (2,947 g [563]) and, homozygous hemoglobin A (2,991 g [465]) mothers were similar. Across a range of parasitologic, clinical, and histologic outcomes, HbAS did not confer protection from PM or its adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaymin C Patel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Victor Mwapasa
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Linda Kalilani
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Feiko O Ter Kuile
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Carole Khairallah
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kyaw L Thwai
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Community Health, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Gabrielli S, Bellina L, Milardi GL, Katende BK, Totino V, Fullin V, Cancrini G. Malaria in children of Tshimbulu (Western Kasai, Democratic Republic of the Congo): epidemiological data and accuracy of diagnostic assays applied in a limited resource setting. Malar J 2016; 15:81. [PMID: 26864461 PMCID: PMC4750168 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-016-1142-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The literature data on malaria in Western Kasai, DRC, are limited and inadequate. A recent molecular survey there has detected Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae as mixed infections with Plasmodium falciparum. In Tshimbulu, Western Kasai, during a humanitarian initiative designed to provide children with free preventive screening and to reduce the local high malaria death rate, accurate species identification was performed,
in order to collect unambiguous epidemiological data and to evaluate the reliability of locally applied diagnostics. Methods Finger pricks provided fresh blood for microscopic analysis (MA), for rapid diagnostic test (RDT) and for molecular diagnostics (MD). MA and RDT were first performed by the local team and then a re-interpretation of the results (on the same slides and on RDT’s taken pictures) was conducted in Italy, where MD were performed. Results The analysis was conducted on 306 children; RDT found 80.9 % as P. falciparum-positive (37.4 % as two-band positive, P. falciparum single infection). MA identified a further four children as positive to P. falciparum and six co-infections with P. ovale. The second RDT evaluation confirmed a similar infection rate (78.2 %) but interpreted as two-band positive a significantly higher share of tests (56.8 %). MA confirmed 80.0 % of the children as malaria positive and, in addition to P. falciparum, identified P. malariae (13.8 %), P. vivax (3.4 %) and P. ovale (2.4 %), and detected Babesia microti in 19 smears. MD confirmed all of the species found (Babesia microti included), classified as mono-infection with P. falciparum a rate of spots comparable to MA revision, and identified all P. ovale as Plasmodium ovale wallikeri. The RDT used locally proved 93.1 % sensitive and 92.1 % specific for P. falciparum. Conclusions The malaria prevalence among the children and the presence of four Plasmodium species, highlighted in this study, identified a sanitary issue which proved to be more alarming than expected, as it was worsened by the unpredictable presence of P. vivax and Babesia microti (never before reported in DRC). Each diagnostic tool showed its point of weakness. Therefore, the most correct approach is by the combined use of different, locally available, diagnostic tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Gabrielli
- Dip. Sanità Pubblica e Malattie infettive, Università "Sapienza", P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Livia Bellina
- MobileDiagnosis Onlus, via Sciuti 180, 90144, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Luigi Milardi
- Dip. Sanità Pubblica e Malattie infettive, Università "Sapienza", P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Valentina Totino
- Dip. Sanità Pubblica e Malattie infettive, Università "Sapienza", P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Valerio Fullin
- St François Hospital, Tshimbulu, BP 185, Kananga, Western Kasai, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Gabriella Cancrini
- Dip. Sanità Pubblica e Malattie infettive, Università "Sapienza", P.le Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Doctor SM, Liu Y, Whitesell A, Thwai KL, Taylor SM, Janko M, Emch M, Kashamuka M, Muwonga J, Tshefu A, Meshnick SR. Malaria surveillance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: comparison of microscopy, PCR, and rapid diagnostic test. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 85:16-8. [PMID: 26915637 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria surveillance is critical for control efforts, but diagnostic methods frequently disagree. Here, we compare microscopy, PCR, and a rapid diagnostic test in 7137 samples from children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo using latent class analysis. PCR had the highest sensitivity (94.6%) and microscopy had the lowest (76.7%).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Doctor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Yunhao Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Statistics and Operations Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Amy Whitesell
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kyaw L Thwai
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Mark Janko
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Melchior Kashamuka
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Medecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jérémie Muwonga
- Programme National de Lutte contre le SIDA et les IST, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Faculté de Medecine, Université de Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Ntuku HMT, Ferrari G, Burri C, Tshefu AK, Kalemwa DM, Lengeler C. Feasibility and acceptability of injectable artesunate for the treatment of severe malaria in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Malar J 2016; 15:18. [PMID: 26747281 PMCID: PMC4706670 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-015-1072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) changed its national policy for the treatment of severe malaria in both children and adults in 2012 from intravenous quinine to injectable artesunate. The country is now planning to deploy nationwide injectable artesunate as the preferred treatment for the management of severe malaria. To support this process, the feasibility and acceptability of the use of injectable artesunate in the context of the DRC was assessed, from the perspective of both health care providers and patients/caretakers. Methods Questionnaires and observations were used to collect information from health care providers and patients/caretakers in eight health facilities in the Province of Kinshasa and in the Province of Bas-Congo. Results A total of 31 health care providers and 134 patients/care takers were interviewed. Seventy five percent (75 %) of health care providers found it less difficult to prepare injectable artesunate compared to quinine. None of them encountered problems during preparation and administration of injectable artesunate. The large majority of care providers (93 %) and patients/caretakers (93 %) answered that injectable artesunate took less time than quinine to cure the symptoms of the patients. 26 (84 %) health care providers reported that the personnel workload had diminished with the use of injectable artesunate. 7 (22.6 %) health workers reported adverse drug reactions, of which a decrease in the haemoglobin rate was the most common (71.4 %). All care providers and the vast majority of patients/caretakers (96 %, N = 128) were either satisfied or very satisfied with injectable artesunate. Conclusions These findings show that the use of injectable artesunate for the treatment of severe malaria is feasible and acceptable in the context of DRC, with appropriate training of care providers. Both care providers and patients/caretakers perceived injectable artesunate to be effective and safe, thus promoting acceptability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry M T Ntuku
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. .,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Gianfrancesco Ferrari
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Christian Burri
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
| | - Didier M Kalemwa
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Christian Lengeler
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kunuanunua TS, Nsibu CN, Bodi JM, Tshibola TK, Makusi Bura M, Magoga K, Ekila MB, Situakibanza HT, Aloni MN. Severe malaria in children: A descriptive report from Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo. J Trop Pediatr 2015; 61:272-8. [PMID: 25957436 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmv029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The decline of susceptibility of Plasmodium falciparum to chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resulted in the change of drug policy. This policy has probably changed the facies of the severe form of malaria. A prospective study was conducted in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo. Data on children aged ≤13 years, diagnosed with severe malaria were analyzed. In total, 378 children were included with an overall median age of 8 years (age range: 1-13 years). Dark urine was seen in 25.1% of cases. Metabolic acidosis (85.2%), hypoglycemia (62.2%) and hemoglobin ≤5 g/dl (39.1%) were the common laboratories features. Severe malaria anemia, cerebral malaria and Blackwater fever (BWF) were found in 39.1, 30.1 and 25.4%, respectively. Mortality rate was 4%. BWF emerges as a frequent form of severe malaria in our midst. Availing artemisin-based combination treatments in the health care system is a priority to reduce the incidence of BWF in our environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Kunuanunua
- Division of Intensive Care, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo Department of Pediatrics, Hôpital Général de Référence de N'djili, Institut Supérieur de Techniques Médicales, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Célestin N Nsibu
- Division of Intensive Care, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Joseph M Bodi
- Division of Intensive Care, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Thérèse K Tshibola
- Department of Pediatrics, Hôpital Général de Référence de N'djili, Institut Supérieur de Techniques Médicales, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Mimy Makusi Bura
- Department of Pediatrics, Hôpital Général de Référence de N'djili, Institut Supérieur de Techniques Médicales, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Kumbundu Magoga
- Department of Pediatrics, Hôpital Général de Référence de N'djili, Institut Supérieur de Techniques Médicales, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Mathilde B Ekila
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Hypolite T Situakibanza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Michel N Aloni
- Division of Haemato-oncology and Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Memvanga PB, Tona GL, Mesia GK, Lusakibanza MM, Cimanga RK. Antimalarial activity of medicinal plants from the Democratic Republic of Congo: A review. J Ethnopharmacol 2015; 169:76-98. [PMID: 25862959 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.03.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Revised: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Malaria is the most prevalent parasitic disease and the foremost cause of morbidity and mortality in the Democratic Republic of Congo. For the management of this disease, a large Congolese population recourses to traditional medicinal plants. To date the efficacy and safety of many of these plants have been validated scientifically in rodent malaria models. In order to generate scientific evidence of traditional remedies used in the Democratic Republic of Congo for the management of malaria, and show the potential of Congolese plants as a major source of antimalarial drugs, this review highlights the antiplasmodial and toxicological properties of the Congolese antimalarial plants investigated during the period of 1999-2014. In doing so, a useful resource for further complementary investigations is presented. Furthermore, this review may pave the way for the research and development of several available and affordable antimalarial phytomedicines. MATERIALS AND METHODS In order to get information on the different studies, a Google Scholar and PubMed literature search was performed using keywords (malaria, Congolese, medicinal plants, antiplasmodial/antimalarial activity, and toxicity). Data from non-indexed journals, Master and Doctoral dissertations were also collected. RESULTS Approximately 120 extracts and fractions obtained from Congolese medicinal plants showed pronounced or good antiplasmodial activity. A number of compounds with interesting antiplasmodial properties were also isolated and identified. Some of these compounds constituted new scaffolds for the synthesis of promising antimalarial drugs. Interestingly, most of these extracts and compounds possessed high selective activity against Plasmodium parasites compared to mammalian cells. The efficacy and safety of several plant-derived products was confirmed in mice, and a good correlation was observed between in vitro and in vivo antimalarial activity. The formulation of several plant-derived products also led to some clinical trials and license of three plant-derived drugs (Manalaria(®), Nsansiphos(®), and Quinine Pharmakina(®)). CONCLUSION The obtained results partly justify and support the use of various medicinal plants to treat malaria in folk medicine in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Antimalarial plants used in Congolese traditional medicine represent an important source for the discovery and development of new antimalarial agents. However, in order to ensure the integration of a larger number of plant-derived products in the Congolese healthcare system, some parameters and trends should be considered in further researches, in agreement with the objectives of the "Traditional Medicine Strategy" proposed by the World Health Organization in 2013. These include evaluation of geographical and seasonal variation, investigation of reproductive biology, assessment of prophylactic antimalarial activity, evaluation of natural products as adjuvant antioxidant therapy for malaria, development of plant-based combination therapies and monitoring of herbal medicines in pharmacovigilance systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick B Memvanga
- University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics and Phytopharmaceutical Drugs Development, B.P. 212 Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | - Gaston L Tona
- University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, B.P. 212 Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Gauthier K Mesia
- University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, B.P. 212 Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Mariano M Lusakibanza
- University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, B.P. 212 Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Richard K Cimanga
- University of Kinshasa, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, B.P. 212 Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of Congo; University of Antwerp, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Analysis, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Budiongo AN, Ngiyulu RM, Lebwaze BM, Gini-Ehungu JL, Mafuta EM, Ekulu PM, Kabongo-Mpolesha JM, Aloni MN. Pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphomas: first report from Central Africa. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2015; 32:239-49. [PMID: 25871614 DOI: 10.3109/08880018.2015.1013231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on presentation and outcome of pediatric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is limited from Africa. The demographic characteristics, distribution of different subtypes were noted and compared with published reports from other parts of the world. METHODS The study was conducted in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo between January 2002 and December 2012. RESULTS A total of 63 cases of pediatric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were retrospectively analyzed. This cohort represents the largest series of pediatric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma presented from sub-Saharan Africa. Median age was 8.7±3.6 years. There were 43 (68.3%) males. A mean of 82 ± 59 days passed from detection of the first sign to referral to oncology unit. Morphology distribution showed that 42 cases (66.7%) had a diagnosis of Burkitt lymphoma, 16 cases (25.4%) had diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and 5 cases (7.9%) had NHL-not otherwise specified. The majority of patients (82.5%) had advanced stage (stage III and IV). Immunohistochemistry findings were available for 32 biopsy samples. All (100%) cases were B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and immunohistochemistry had identified 18 (56.3%) cases of Burkitt lymphoma. In our cohort, 22 of 32 cases expressed positive bcl-2 and 12 (37.5%) were found to be positive for bcl-6. Thirty-one (96.7%) cases were positive for high Ki-67 antigen expression. Assuming that cases lost to follow-up worsened and died, the mortality would be 98.4%. CONCLUSION In comparison to western data, we observed higher proportion of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Burkitt Lymphoma and patients with bcl-2 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aléine Nzazi Budiongo
- Division of Paediatric Hemato-Oncology and Nephrology, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa , Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Taylor SM, Antonia AL, Harrington WE, Goheen MM, Mwapasa V, Chaluluka E, Fried M, Kabyemela E, Madanitsa M, Khairallah C, Kalilani-Phiri L, Tshefu AK, Rogerson SJ, Ter Kuile FO, Duffy PE, Meshnick SR. Independent lineages of highly sulfadoxine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum haplotypes, eastern Africa. Emerg Infect Dis 2015; 20:1140-8. [PMID: 24960247 PMCID: PMC4073871 DOI: 10.3201/eid2007.131720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasites with increased resistance to sulfadoxine might undermine malaria control measures. Sulfadoxine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum undermines malaria prevention with sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine. Parasites with a highly resistant mutant dihydropteroate synthase (dhps) haplotype have recently emerged in eastern Africa; they negated preventive benefits of sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine, and might exacerbate placental malaria. We explored emerging lineages of dhps mutant haplotypes in Malawi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Tanzania by using analyses of genetic microsatellites flanking the dhps locus. In Malawi, a triple-mutant dhps SGEG (mutant amino acids are underlined) haplotype emerged in 2010 that was closely related to pre-existing double-mutant SGEA haplotypes, suggesting local origination in Malawi. When we compared mutant strains with parasites from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania by multiple independent analyses, we found that SGEG parasites were partitioned into separate lineages by country. These findings support a model of local origination of SGEGdhps haplotypes, rather than geographic diffusion, and have implications for investigations of emergence and effects of parasite drug resistance.
Collapse
|
41
|
Patel JC, Taylor SM, Juliao PC, Parobek CM, Janko M, Gonzalez LD, Ortiz L, Padilla N, Tshefu AK, Emch M, Udhayakumar V, Lindblade K, Meshnick SR. Genetic Evidence of Importation of Drug-Resistant Plasmodium falciparum to Guatemala from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Emerg Infect Dis 2015; 20:932-40. [PMID: 24856348 PMCID: PMC4036788 DOI: 10.3201/eid2006.131204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular markers and population genetics were effective tracking tools. Imported malaria threatens control and elimination efforts in countries that have low rates of transmission. In 2010, an outbreak of Plasmodium falciparum malaria was reported among United Nations peacekeeping soldiers from Guatemala who had recently returned from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Epidemiologic evidence suggested that the soldiers were infected in the DRC, but local transmission could not be ruled out in all cases. We used population genetic analyses of neutral microsatellites to determine the outbreak source. Genetic relatedness was compared among parasites found in samples from the soldiers and parasite populations collected in the DRC and Guatemala; parasites identified in the soldiers were more closely related to those from the DRC. A phylogenetic clustering analysis confirms this identification with >99.9% confidence. Thus, results support the hypothesis that the soldiers likely imported malaria from the DRC. This study demonstrates the utility of molecular genotyping in outbreak investigations.
Collapse
|
42
|
Tshibola Mbuyi ML, Bouyou-Akotet MK, Mawili-Mboumba DP. Molecular Detection of Plasmodium falciparum Infection in Matched Peripheral and Placental Blood Samples from Delivering Women in Libreville, Gabon. Malar Res Treat 2014; 2014:486042. [PMID: 25485162 DOI: 10.1155/2014/486042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Submicroscopic infections account for more than 50% of all Plasmodium (P.) infections in areas with decreasing malaria prevalence and might contribute to poor pregnancy outcomes. The frequency of submicroscopic P. falciparum infections was assessed in matched peripheral and placental blood samples with microscopy negative or discordant results according to IPTp administration. Methods. P. falciparum infection was detected by nested PCR in matched blood samples collected from delivering women with a history of antimalarial drug treatment and living in Gabon. Results. Submicroscopic P. falciparum infections were detected in 87% (n = 33) of the 44 selected matched samples. Plasmodial DNA was found in 90% (n = 35/39) and 87% (n = 33/38) of microscopy negative peripheral and placental blood samples, respectively. Overall, 95% of samples obtained during the high IPTp-SP coverage period had a submicroscopic infection versus 79% among those from the low coverage period. Conclusion. Submicroscopic infections frequency is high in peripheral and placental blood samples from delivering women with a history of antimalarial treatment whatever the level of IPTp coverage. These data highlight the need of accurate diagnostic tools for a regular antenatal screening of malaria during the pregnancy in endemic areas.
Collapse
|
43
|
Carrel M, Patel J, Taylor SM, Janko M, Mwandagalirwa MK, Tshefu AK, Escalante AA, McCollum A, Alam MT, Udhayakumar V, Meshnick S, Emch M. The geography of malaria genetics in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A complex and fragmented landscape. Soc Sci Med 2014; 133:233-41. [PMID: 25459204 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.10.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Understanding how malaria parasites move between populations is important, particularly given the potential for malaria to be reintroduced into areas where it was previously eliminated. We examine the distribution of malaria genetics across seven sites within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and two nearby countries, Ghana and Kenya, in order to understand how the relatedness of malaria parasites varies across space, and whether there are barriers to the flow of malaria parasites within the DRC or across borders. Parasite DNA was retrieved from dried blood spots from 7 Demographic and Health Survey sample clusters in the DRC. Malaria genetic characteristics of parasites from Ghana and Kenya were also obtained. For each of 9 geographic sites (7 DRC, 1 Ghana and 1 Kenya), a pair-wise RST statistic was calculated, indicating the genetic distance between malaria parasites found in those locations. Mapping genetics across the spatial extent of the study area indicates a complex genetic landscape, where relatedness between two proximal sites may be relatively high (RST > 0.64) or low (RST < 0.05), and where distal sites also exhibit both high and low genetic similarity. Mantel's tests suggest that malaria genetics differ as geographic distances increase. Principal Coordinate Analysis suggests that genetically related samples are not co-located. Barrier analysis reveals no significant barriers to gene flow between locations. Malaria genetics in the DRC have a complex and fragmented landscape. Limited exchange of genes across space is reflected in greater genetic distance between malaria parasites isolated at greater geographic distances. There is, however, evidence for close genetic ties between distally located sample locations, indicating that movement of malaria parasites and flow of genes is being driven by factors other than distance decay. This research demonstrates the contributions that spatial disease ecology and landscape genetics can make to understanding the evolutionary dynamics of infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Carrel
- Department of Geographical & Sustainability Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Jaymin Patel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Mark Janko
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Melchior Kashamuka Mwandagalirwa
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medecine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Ananias A Escalante
- Center for Evolutionary Medicine & Informatics, The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Andrea McCollum
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Md Tauqeer Alam
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Venkatachalam Udhayakumar
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Steven Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Aloni MN, Sysleyne LM, Ekulu PM, Babio FL, Ngiyulu RM, Gini-Ehungu JL. The challenges of caring for children with nephrotic syndrome in a tertiary institution in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Acta Paediatr 2014; 103:e365-9. [PMID: 24673208 DOI: 10.1111/apa.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM The care of children with resistant nephrotic syndrome (NS) in the Democratic Republic of Congo is compromised by resource deficiencies that range from inadequate healthcare budgets, to scarce laboratory facilities and inconsistent drug supplies. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical profile and management of children with nephrotic syndrome in Kinshasa, the country's capital and its largest city. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 62 patients with a diagnosis of NS, who were seen in the Paediatric Nephrology Unit at the University Hospital of Kinshasa between January 1983 and January 2008. RESULTS Of the 62 children diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, 33 were boys and 29 were girls, giving a male to female ratio of 1.14:1. Their median age at initial presentation was 7.5 years (range: 1.5-13 years) with a peak incidence at six to nine years of age (38.7%). No cases of plasmodium malariae were isolated in our series. Sixteen (25.8%) of the children had resistant corticoid nephrotic syndrome and six of the children (9.7%) died. CONCLUSION Age, the prevalence of steroid-resistant NS and the mortality rate in our series were higher than those reported in Asian and Western countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Ntetani Aloni
- Division of Paediatric Haemato-oncology and Nephrology; Department of Paediatrics; University Hospital of Kinshasa; School of Medicine; University of Kinshasa; Kinshasa Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Pépé Mfutu Ekulu
- Division of Paediatric Haemato-oncology and Nephrology; Department of Paediatrics; University Hospital of Kinshasa; School of Medicine; University of Kinshasa; Kinshasa Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - René Makuala Ngiyulu
- Division of Paediatric Haemato-oncology and Nephrology; Department of Paediatrics; University Hospital of Kinshasa; School of Medicine; University of Kinshasa; Kinshasa Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Jean Lambert Gini-Ehungu
- Division of Paediatric Haemato-oncology and Nephrology; Department of Paediatrics; University Hospital of Kinshasa; School of Medicine; University of Kinshasa; Kinshasa Democratic Republic of Congo
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Antonia AL, Taylor SM, Janko M, Emch M, Tshefu AK, Meshnick SR. A cross-sectional survey of Plasmodium falciparum pfcrt mutant haplotypes in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2014; 90:1094-7. [PMID: 24732459 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), artesunate-amodiaquine is first-line therapy for falciparum malaria; little is known about the prevalence of molecular markers of parasite drug resistance. Across the DRC, we genotyped 166 parasites in Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Of these parasites, 73 (44%) parasites were pure wild-type CVMNK, 55 (31%) parasites were chloroquine-resistant CVIET: , 35 (21.1%) parasites were mixed CVMNK and CVIET: , and 3 parasites were other genotypes. Ninety-two infections (55.4%) harbored the pfcrt K76T: substitution that is highly correlated with chloroquine failure. The amodiaquine-resistant S: VMNT: haplotype was absent. Geographically, pfcrt haplotypes were not clearly clustered. Chloroquine accounted for 19.4% of antimalarial use, and amodiaquine accounted for 15.3% of antimalarial use; there were no associations between drug use and mutant haplotype prevalence. In the DRC, our molecular survey indicates that resistance to chloroquine is substantial but that resistance to amodiaquine is absent. These contrasting findings highlight the need for molecular surveillance of drug resistance to inform malaria control policies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro L Antonia
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Steve M Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Mark Janko
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Michael Emch
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Antoinette K Tshefu
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Steven R Meshnick
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Department of Geography, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Ecole de Sante Publique, Faculte de Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Aloni MN, Nkee L. Challenge of Managing Sickle Cell Disease in a Pediatric Population Living in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: A Sickle Cell Center Experience. Hemoglobin 2014; 38:196-200. [DOI: 10.3109/03630269.2014.896810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
47
|
Aloni MN, Tshimanga BK, Ekulu PM, Ehungu JLG, Ngiyulu RM. Malaria, clinical features and acute crisis in children suffering from sickle cell disease in resource-limited settings: a retrospective description of 90 cases. Pathog Glob Health 2014; 107:198-201. [PMID: 23816320 DOI: 10.1179/2047773213y.0000000089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of sickle cell disease (SCD) is extremely high in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite the high prevalence of this disease in our midst, there has been no report on the clinical features in the sickle cell pediatric population suffering from malaria in our midst. METHODS A retrospective survey of records from the Department of Paediatrics of the University Hospital of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, was done for the period 1998–2008. For the 10 years studied, 108 children with SCD were reviewed and the data of those who developed malaria during admission were retrieved and analyzed. RESULTS Of the 90 homozygous sickle cell children with malaria, fever, pallor, and jaundice were the commonly-found symptoms. Lethargy, severe anemia, respiratory distress, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly,digestive disorders, and prostration were common in children under 5 years, with significant difference (P, 0.05) to the older children. Transfusion because of to severe anemia was found necessary in 54.4% of cases. No case of cerebral malaria was found. Blackwater fever was a rare event. Hand–foot syndrome was present in 12.8% of patients, exclusively in those less than 5 years old. Pain crisis was associated in 46 cases (51.1%). Pain crisis was particularly present in SCD children less than 5 years of age (74.5% vs 25.6%, P , 0.001). No death was observed in this series. CONCLUSION We conclude that the acute crisis related to SCD is more common in children less than 5 years of age. High risk of a requirement for blood transfusion was found in young children. Anti-malarial prophylaxis is advocated in Kinshasa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Ntetani Aloni
- Division of Hemato-oncology and Nephrology, Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital of Kinshasa, School of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Bodi JM, Nsibu CN, Longenge RL, Aloni MN, Akilimali PZ, Tshibassu PM, Kayembe PK, Omar AH, Hirayama K, Verhaegen J. Blackwater fever in Congolese children: a report of clinical, laboratory features and risk factors. Malar J 2013; 12:205. [PMID: 23767699 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-12-205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Blackwater fever (BWF) is one of the severe forms of malaria. This complication was first described among non-immune European expatriates in the malaria endemic areas. Recently, resurgence of this form of malaria has been reported among the indigenous populations. The objective of this study was to investigate the risk factors among BWF patients. Methods A case–control study was conducted between in four hospitals located in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo from January 2010 to December 2011. One hundred and twenty nine children were recruited with 43 (cases) and 86 (control). Results No significant difference in the gender and age distribution was observed between the case and control). The sex-ratio male to female in the case group and control group was respectively 1:1.0 and 1:1.1. The mean age was 8.62 years (SD = 3.84) in patients with haemoglobinuria and 8.55 years (SD = 3.77) in the control group. No difference in frequency of co-infection with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium malariae was observed between the two groups. Significant differences in haemoglobin, haematocrit, creatinine, urea and platelets levels were observed between the two groups (p < 0.001), but not for blood group and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. Majority of the BWF cases occurred during the rainy season (88.4%). Treatment with quinine (95.3%) was significantly associated with cases (p < 0.001). Seven (16.2%) of the haemoglobinuric children developed acute renal failure. Conclusion Rainy season, low parasitaemia and quinine ingestion were the major risk factors significantly associated with haemoglobinuria. Acute renal failure was observed as the major complication of BWF.
Collapse
|
49
|
Yansouni CP, Bottieau E, Lutumba P, Winkler AS, Lynen L, Büscher P, Jacobs J, Gillet P, Lejon V, Alirol E, Polman K, Utzinger J, Miles MA, Peeling RW, Muyembe JJ, Chappuis F, Boelaert M. Rapid diagnostic tests for neurological infections in central Africa. Lancet Infect Dis 2013; 13:546-58. [PMID: 23623369 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(13)70004-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Infections are a leading cause of life-threatening neuropathology worldwide. In central African countries affected by endemic diseases such as human African trypanosomiasis, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and schistosomiasis, delayed diagnosis and treatment often lead to avoidable death or severe sequelae. Confirmatory microbiological and parasitological tests are essential because clinical features of most neurological infections are not specific, brain imaging is seldom feasible, and treatment regimens are often prolonged or toxic. Recognition of this diagnostic bottleneck has yielded major investment in application of advances in biotechnology to clinical microbiology in the past decade. We review the neurological pathogens for which rapid diagnostic tests are most urgently needed in central Africa, detail the state of development of putative rapid diagnostic tests for each, and describe key technical and operational challenges to their development and implementation. Promising field-suitable rapid diagnostic tests exist for the diagnosis of human African trypanosomiasis and cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. For other infections-eg, syphilis and schistosomiasis-highly accurate field-validated rapid diagnostic tests are available, but their role in diagnosis of disease with neurological involvement is still unclear. For others-eg, tuberculosis-advances in research have not yet yielded validated tests for diagnosis of neurological disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cedric P Yansouni
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kunuanunua TS, Nsibu CN, Gini-Ehungu JL, Bodi JM, Ekulu PM, Situakibanza H, Nseka NM, Magoga K, Aloni MN. [Acute renal failure and severe malaria in Congolese children living in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo]. Nephrol Ther 2013; 9:160-5. [PMID: 23402997 DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2013.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2012] [Revised: 12/05/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on acute renal failure in complicated malaria in children in the Democratic Republic of Congo are sparse. The objective of this study was to document the profile of acute renal failure in severe malaria in admitted patients in pediatric hospitals from Kinshasa. METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted from January 2008 to December 2008 in children admitted in emergency units of five hospitals in Kinshasa for severe malaria. RESULTS In our series, 378 children with severe malaria were included. There were 226 boys and 152 girls (sex ratio 1.49). One hundred and ninety four (194) of these patients were under 5 years old. Acute renal failure was observed in 89 children (23.6%) and 87 of them had blackwater fever (BWF). This form of severe malaria was predominant in children older than 5 years. Quinine was the commonest antimalarial drug involved in the genesis of BWF. Dialysis was indicated in 23 children (24.0%) and was effective (acute peritoneal dialysis) in 21 patients. The death rate in children with ARF was 12.6% (n=87). Recovery of renal function was obtained by conservative treatment in the remained group. CONCLUSION This study confirmed the emergence of BWF in seemed protected autochthon children older than 5 years. BWF remained the leading cause of acute renal failure in complicated malaria among Congolese children in Kinshasa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Sengua Kunuanunua
- Unité de Néphrologie Pédiatrique, Département de Pédiatrie, Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Kinshasa, BP 123 Kinshasa XI, République démocratique du Congo
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|