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Hobbs CV, Rhinewalt JM, Arguello I, Malloch L, Martin L, Poston WM, Byers P, Bradbury RS. Autochthonous Ascariasis, Mississippi, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:821-823. [PMID: 38526329 PMCID: PMC10977833 DOI: 10.3201/eid3004.240176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
We describe a case of a 2-year-old child who expelled a single adult female Ascaris lumbricoides worm. The patient is from a rural county in Mississippi, USA, with no reported travel outside of the United States. The caregivers in the home practice good sanitation. Exposure to domestic pigs is the likely source of infection.
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Toychiev A, Gafner N, Belotserkovets V, Sekler D, Tashpulatova S, Osipova S. Impact of Ascaris lumbricoides infection on the development of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis in patients with COPD. Trop Doct 2024; 54:149-156. [PMID: 38291709 DOI: 10.1177/00494755241226488] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The aetiopathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains unclear. The aim of our study was to determine the possible influence of Ascaris lumbricoides on the development of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) in patients with COPD. The prevalence of A. lumbricoides in patients with COPD with CPA (19.05%) was significantly higher than that in those without (9.20%) and controls (4.9%) (p < 0.05). Trends in levels of Interleukin-1β and of tumour necrosis factor α suggest ascariasis increases susceptibility to Aspergillus sp. in patients with COPD and can be considered an additional risk factor for CPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdurakhim Toychiev
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Immunology of Parasitic and Fungal Diseases, Republican Specialized Research and Practical Medical Center of Epidemiology, Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Natalya Gafner
- Pulmonologist, Department of Therapy, Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Tuberculosis and Pulmonology, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Vera Belotserkovets
- Pulmonologist, Department of Therapy, Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Tuberculosis and Pulmonology, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Dildora Sekler
- Senior Researcher, Department of Immunology of Parasitic and Fungal Diseases, Republican Specialized Research and Practical Medical Center of Epidemiology, Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Shakhnoza Tashpulatova
- Associate Professor, Department of Infectious and Child Infectious Diseases, Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Svetlana Osipova
- Principal Investigator, Department of Immunology of Parasitic and Fungal Diseases, Republican Specialized Research and Practical Medical Center of Epidemiology, Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
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G/Kidan M, Fayisa ST, Hailu SS, Abebe AT. Ascariasis: A common disease with uncommon presentation in a resource limited setting. A case report. Radiol Case Rep 2024; 19:1560-1564. [PMID: 38317701 PMCID: PMC10839760 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.12.063] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Ascaris-induced intestinal obstruction is a rare complication primarily seen in children in areas with a high prevalence of worm infestations. It can occur through 2 mechanisms: immune-mediated reactions releasing neurotoxins that cause contractions and inflammation in the small intestine (aperistalsis), or mechanical obstruction by adult worms, commonly at the ileocecal valve. Partial obstructions are managed conservatively, while complete obstructions often require surgical intervention. In a recent case, a 19-year-old male presented with persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, and inability to pass stools, and gas. Imaging revealed partial obstruction, and conservative management with fluids, a nasogastric tube, and antibiotics led to the spontaneous passage of worms, relieving symptoms. The patient was discharged with anthelmintics and advised on follow-up and sanitary measures. This case is notable for the uncommon occurrence of Ascaris-induced intestinal obstruction in adults and the successful conservative management resulting in early worm expulsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Messay G/Kidan
- Department of Radiology, Menelik II Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Shimalis T. Fayisa
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Collage of Health Science, Mizan Tepi University, Mizan, Ethiopia
| | - Samuel S. Hailu
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abel T. Abebe
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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Siviero I, de Almeida UVB, Penna CRR, Di Puglia EBM, Simões BCB. Abdominal complications of ascariasis in childhood. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2024:S0021-7557(24)00027-5. [PMID: 38522478 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2024.02.001] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Complications of ascariasis are a significant cause of abdominal pain in pediatric emergencies, especially where it is endemic. A literature review was conducted with the aim of improving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for these patients. DATA SOURCES A PubMed search was conducted using the key terms "ascariasis complications" and "hepatobiliary ascariasis". The search strategy included meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, observational studies, case reports, and reviews published up to December 2023. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS Obstruction of the small bowel is the most common complication. Others that are, rarer and more difficult to properly identify and treat, such as biliary, hepatic, and pancreatic complications, acute appendicitis, Meckel's diverticulitis, or peritoneal granulomas. Hepatic and pancreatic complications are rarer and more serious in children than in adults. While plain radiography is usually the only option in cases of intestinal obstruction, ultrasonography is the examination of choice in cases of hepatobiliary, pancreatic, and appendicular ascariasis complications in childhood. The treatment is clinical and conservative in most patients. Surgical treatment is indicated if conservative therapy fails, or if there are signs of complications. Laparoscopy has been used as an excellent technical alternative in adults with hepatobiliary complications of ascariasis, but further studies on its use in children are still needed. CONCLUSION The creation of protocols and greater debate on this subject should be encouraged for a better understanding of the disease and to establish an early diagnosis and adequate treatment for children with complications resulting from massive infestation by Ascaris lumbricoides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivonete Siviero
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Cirurgia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Ugo V B de Almeida
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira (IPPMG), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Claudia R R Penna
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira (IPPMG), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Elazir B M Di Puglia
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Instituto de Puericultura e Pediatria Martagão Gesteira (IPPMG), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Betina C Bertrand Simões
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Cirurgia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Muslim A, Aazmi S, Er YX, Shahrizal S, Lim YAL. Ascaris lumbricoides harbors a distinct gut microbiota profile from its human host: Preliminary insights. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2024; 34:e00223. [PMID: 38323096 PMCID: PMC10844936 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2024.e00223] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
In indigenous populations where soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infections are endemic, STH parasites (i.e., Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworms) often co-exist and co-evolve with the gut microbiota of their human hosts. The association between STH infections and the gut microbiota of the colonized human hosts has been established, but few studies explored the gut microbiota of the parasites. This preliminary study aimed to characterize the microbiota of the STH parasite for further understanding the STH parasite-host relationship. The gut microbial genomic DNA from four adult A. lumbricoides worms recovered from a six-year-old indigenous Negrito boy living in an STH-endemic village in Perak, Peninsular Malaysia was extracted and sequenced for the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA. The microbiota profiles of these worms were characterized and compared with the gut microbiota of their human host, including the profiles from four STH-positive and three STH-negative individuals from the same tribe and village. The gut microbial structure of A. lumbricoides was found to be differed significantly from their human host. The worms contained lower gut bacterial abundance and diversity than human. This difference was evident in the beta diversity analysis which showed a clear separation between the two sample types. While both Firmicutes (52.3%) and Bacteroidetes (36.6%) are the predominant phyla followed by Proteobacteria (7.2%) in the human gut, the microbiota of Ascaris gut is highly dominated by Firmicutes, constituting 84.2% relative abundance (mainly from the genus Clostridium), followed by Proteobacteria (11.1%), Tenericutes (1.8%) and Bacteroidetes (1.5%). The parasites were also found to alter the microbial structure of the human gut following infection based on the relatively higher bacterial abundance in STH-positive versus STH-negative participants. Further studies with a greater number of Ascaris adults and human hosts are needed to confirm the gut microbiota profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azdayanti Muslim
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (Sungai Buloh Campus), Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
- Microbiome Health and Environment (MiHeaRT), Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Shafiq Aazmi
- Microbiome Health and Environment (MiHeaRT), Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
- School of Biology, Faculty of Applied Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yi Xian Er
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shezryna Shahrizal
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (Sungai Buloh Campus), Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Hon KL, Leung AKC. An update on the current and emerging pharmacotherapy for the treatment of human ascariasis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024. [PMID: 38372051 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2319686] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, Ascaris lumbricoides is the commonest helminthic infection that affects people in underdeveloped countries and returning immigrants in industrialized nations. This article aims to provide latest updates on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and pharmacotherapy of ascariasis. AREAS COVERED A PubMed search was conducted using Clinical Queries and the key terms 'human ascariasis' OR 'Ascaris lumbricoides.' Ascaris lumbricoides is highly endemic in tropical and subtropic regions and among returning immigrants in industrialized nations. Predisposing factors include poor sanitation and poverty. The prevalence is greatest in young children. Most infected patients are asymptomatic. Patients with A. lumbricoides infection should be treated with anti-helminthic drugs to prevent complications from migration of the worm. Mebendazole and albendazole are indicated for children and nonpregnant women. Pregnant individuals should be treated with pyrantel pamoate. EXPERT OPINION Cure rates with anthelmintic treatment are high. No emerging pharmacotherapy can replace these existing drugs of good efficacy, safety profile and low cost for public health. It is opinioned that advances in the management of ascariasis include diagnostic accuracy at affordable costs, Emodepside is highly effective in single doses against ascarids in mammals and in human trials. The drug could be registered for human use in multiple neglected tropical diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kam Lun Hon
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Alexander K C Leung
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Calgary and the Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Edoa JR, Adégbitè BR, Honkpéhèdji YJ, Zinsou JF, Boussougou-Sambe ST, Woldearegai TG, Mordmüller B, Adegnika AA, Dejon-Agobé JC. Epidemiology of soil-transmitted helminth infections and the differential effect of treatment on the distribution of helminth species in rural areas of Gabon. Trop Med Health 2024; 52:3. [PMID: 38163912 PMCID: PMC10759385 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00567-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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are a public health concern in endemic areas. For efficient control, the epidemiology of the disease needs to be monitored. This report assesses the prevalence, incidence, post-treatment infection (PTI) rate, and risk factors for STH infections in two rural areas of Gabon. METHOD In this longitudinal and prospective study, participants aged six to 30 years from the vicinity of Lambaréné and selected households using a simple randomization process were included and followed in two consecutive periods of six and nine months. Stool samples were obtained at the beginning and the end of each follow-up phase (FUP). The Kato-Katz technique was used for the detection of STH eggs, while the Harada-Mori technique and coproculture were used for the detection of larvae in stool processed within a maximum of four hours of collection. Prevalence was determined at the three main time points of the study, incidence was assessed during the two study phases, and PTI was defined as an infection detected nine months post-treatment. RESULTS A total of 262 participants were included. The overall prevalence of STH infections was 42% (95%CI: 34-50) and 44% (95%CI: 37-51) at baseline for the six and nine month FUPs, respectively. Trichuris trichiura was the most prevalent species at each time point of assessment. The cumulative incidence of STH at the 6- and 9-month follow-ups was 18% (95%CI: 12-27) and 35% (95%CI: 27-43), respectively, while the incidence rates were 41 (95%CI: 28-55) and 56 (95%CI: 46-67) per 100 person-years, respectively. The PTI rates at the 9-month follow-up for T. trichiura, hookworm, and Ascaris lumbricoides were 58% (95%CI: 41-74), 31% (95%CI: 11-59) and 18% (95%CI: 5-40), respectively. The STH infection intensity was generally light. CONCLUSION The prevalence level of STH infection is moderate in the vicinity of Lambaréné, with T. trichiura being the most prevalent species. Our results reveal a rapid spread of the disease in the population mainly following intervention, particularly for trichuriasis, and therefore call for the full implementation of the World Health Organization's recommendations in the area. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02769013. Registered 21 April 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02769013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Ronald Edoa
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Bayodé Roméo Adégbitè
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Yabo Josiane Honkpéhèdji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeannot Fréjus Zinsou
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stravensky Térence Boussougou-Sambe
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tamirat Gebru Woldearegai
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Mordmüller
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ayola Akim Adegnika
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
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Aalinezhad M, Jafarpishe MS, Naderi Y, Shahsavan M, Souri Z. Coincidence of Ascariasis with Appendicitis in a Pediatric Patient with abdominal Pain; a Case Report. Arch Acad Emerg Med 2023; 12:e11. [PMID: 38162385 PMCID: PMC10757573 DOI: 10.22037/aaem.v12i1.2187] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The simultaneous occurrence of intestinal ascariasis and appendicitis presents a challenge in diagnosing pediatric abdominal emergencies due to overlapping symptoms. We present the case of an 8-year-old boy who experienced acute abdominal pain, characterized by a severe cramp in the mid and lower right abdomen, with pain rated 7 out of 10, a mild fever, and continuous nausea. The initial evaluation suggested appendicitis, supported by an Alvarado score of 9. However, ultrasonography did not conclusively confirm appendicitis but revealed an Ascaris worm in the ileum. This finding highlights the importance of careful diagnostic processes that combine clinical assessment with imaging techniques, while being mindful of their limitations. Surgical exploration confirmed retrocecal appendicitis coexisting with an Ascaris lumbricoides infection. The treatment involved surgical removal of the affected appendix and pharmacological expulsion of the parasitic worm using albendazole, which proved effective. This report emphasizes the consideration of ascariasis in diagnosing appendicitis, particularly in areas where intestinal parasites are common. It also demonstrated the improved diagnostic accuracy achieved through clinical scoring and imaging, thus reducing the risk of missing dual pathologies in young patients with acute abdominal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Aalinezhad
- Department of Radiology, Kashani University Hospital, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saleh Jafarpishe
- Department of Radiology, Kashani University Hospital, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Yosra Naderi
- Department of Radiology, Kashani University Hospital, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahdi Shahsavan
- Department of Radiology, Kashani University Hospital, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Souri
- Department of Radiology, Kashani University Hospital, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Ulaganeethi R, Shettikothanuru Ramachandrappa VK, Rajkumari N, Dorairajan G, Saya GK. Performance of microscopy compared to conventional PCR in identification of soil-transmitted helminth infections among antenatal women in a low-prevalence setting. Indian J Med Microbiol 2023; 46:100427. [PMID: 37945120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2023.100427] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Traditional microscopy-based methods may provide inaccurate estimates of Soil transmitted helminth (STH) infections in mild intensity of infection. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence of STH infections using molecular diagnostic methods and compare the diagnostic performance of microscopy with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in stool samples collected from pregnant women in primary care settings in Puducherry, India. METHODOLOGY A singleplex PCR assay was developed to detect three species of STHs, namely Ascaris lumbricoides, Necator americanus, and Ancylostoma duodenale, by targeting the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS1 and ITS2) of 5.8S rRNA. The PCR generated 420, 662, and 515 base pairs of DNA for the respective organisms. In addition to singleplex PCR, wet and concentration microscopy techniques were used. The results were expressed as percentages with 95% confidence intervals, and the diagnostic performance of microscopy was compared with PCR in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and positive, negative predictive values and kappa statistics. RESULTS Among the 650 pregnant women included, 48.8% were aged 25 years or less, 59% were primigravida, and half were from rural areas. The overall prevalence of any STH infection was higher in PCR compared to microscopy (8.9% vs. 7.2%). The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides was higher by microscopy (5.4% vs 2.6%), while the prevalence of Necator americanus was higher by PCR (6.3%) than by microscopy (1.8%). No species of Ancylostoma duodenale was detected. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of microscopy for detecting any STH infection was 22.4%, 94.3%, 27.7%, and 92.5%, respectively. The agreement between microscopy and PCR for the identification is as follows: for any STH infection, k = 0.12, Ascaris k = 0.16, and Necator k = 0.20, respectively. CONCLUSION The prevalence of any STH infection identified by PCR was higher than microscopy, and the agreement between the two methods was poor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revathi Ulaganeethi
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | | | - Nonika Rajkumari
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), India.
| | - Gowri Dorairajan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Ganesh Kumar Saya
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
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Samir K, Subash T, Subash A, Bilal H, Shah HH, Dave T. Noninvasive diagnosis of Ascaris lumbricoides in the common bile duct: A pediatric case report of acute pancreatitis. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7940. [PMID: 37744625 PMCID: PMC10517218 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7940] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message This case report highlights the importance of considering parasitic infections, particularly Ascaris lumbricoides, as a possible cause of acute pancreatitis in children, especially in endemic regions. Noninvasive imaging techniques, such as ultrasonography, can play a crucial role in the early detection and diagnosis of this unusual presentation. Timely administration of anthelmintic therapy led to the resolution of symptoms and prevented the need for invasive procedures. Healthcare providers should be vigilant about the diverse clinical manifestations of ascariasis, and regular deworming programs and health education are essential in minimizing the burden of this neglected tropical disease among children. Abstract Ascariasis is a common public health problem globally but it is more prevalent in school-age children and it often goes undiagnosed, leading to severe complications. The purpose of this report is to spread awareness of its unusual presentation and how to judiciously use noninvasive approaches for its diagnosis. We present a case of a 10-year-old girl that was presented in pediatric emergency with gradually worsening epigastric pain. Initial lab work-up showed elevated pancreatic enzymes which lead to the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The patient was managed in the line of acute pancreatitis and with further evaluation by imaging techniques such as ultrasound and CT-scan abdomen, Ascaris lumbricoides (A. lumbricoides) was visualized. She was then treated with prophylactic antibiotics and antiparasitic medications, which resolved her symptoms and the child responded to the treatment. In children, parasites should be considered as a cause of acute pancreatitis by clinicians, especially in low-income countries, and before performing invasive procedures, noninvasive approaches should be considered as an initial option. This can save the patient from multiple invasive procedure and its severe complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Samir
- Dow University of Health SciencesKarachiPakistan
| | | | - Arun Subash
- Dow University of Health SciencesKarachiPakistan
| | | | | | - Tirth Dave
- Bukovinian State Medical UniversityChernivtsiUkraine
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Adjobimey T, Meyer J, Hennenfent A, Bara AJ, Lagnika L, Kocou B, Adjagba M, Laleye A, Hoerauf A, Parcina M. Negative association between ascaris lumbricoides seropositivity and Covid-19 severity: insights from a study in Benin. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1233082. [PMID: 37622109 PMCID: PMC10446766 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1233082] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating effects worldwide, but the trajectory of the pandemic has been milder in Low-and-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), including those in Africa. Co-infection with helminths, such as Ascaris lumbricoides, has been suggested as a possible factor contributing to the reduced severity observed in these regions. Methods The present study investigated the association between Ascaris-specific antibody levels and COVID-19 severity in 276 SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals in Benin. Participants were categorized into asymptomatic (n=100), mild (n=150), and severe (n=26) groups based on clinical disease severity. Sera were collected and analyzed using ELISA to measure Ascaris and SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies, while Luminex was used to assess cytokines and SARS-CoV-2-specific neutralizing antibody expression. Results and discussion The results demonstrated that asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 seropositive individuals expressed, on average, 1.7 and 2.2-times higher levels of Ascaris antibodies compared to individuals with mild and severe COVID-19, respectively. This finding suggests an inverse correlation between Ascaris antibody levels and COVID-19 severity. Notably, logistic regression analysis showed that Ascaris seropositivity was significantly associated with a reduced risk of severe COVID-19 (OR = 0.277, p = 0.021). Interestingly, COVID-19 patients with comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure showed lower expression of Ascaris antibodies. Strikingly, no correlation was observed between Ascaris antibody levels and SARS-CoV-2-specific neutralizing antibodies. On the other hand, individuals seronegative for Ascaris displayed significantly higher levels of systemic pro-inflammatory markers compared to seropositive individuals. These findings suggest that higher expression of Ascaris antibodies is associated with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections and may contribute to the reduction of the risk to develop severe COVID-19. The beneficial effect of Ascaris seropositivity on COVID-19 outcomes in Benin may be attributed to a decrease in comorbidities and pro-inflammatory markers. These observations provide valuable insights into the milder COVID-19 trajectory observed in Africa and may have implications for future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomabu Adjobimey
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Laboratoire de Biologie intégrative pour l’Innovation thérapeutique (BioInov), Faculté des Sciences et Techniques (FAST), Université d’Abomey Calavi, Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Julia Meyer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anneka Hennenfent
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anick J. Bara
- Laboratoire de Biologie intégrative pour l’Innovation thérapeutique (BioInov), Faculté des Sciences et Techniques (FAST), Université d’Abomey Calavi, Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Latifou Lagnika
- Laboratoire de Biologie intégrative pour l’Innovation thérapeutique (BioInov), Faculté des Sciences et Techniques (FAST), Université d’Abomey Calavi, Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Bienvenu Kocou
- Laboratoire de Biologie intégrative pour l’Innovation thérapeutique (BioInov), Faculté des Sciences et Techniques (FAST), Université d’Abomey Calavi, Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Marius Adjagba
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé (FSS), Université d’Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Anatole Laleye
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé (FSS), Université d’Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Achim Hoerauf
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Bonn-Cologne Site, German Center for Infectious Disease Research (DZIF), Bonn, Germany
| | - Marijo Parcina
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology (IMMIP), University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Amsalu A, Molla Y. Gallbladder Perforation with Choledochogastric Fistula Due to Ascaris Infestation, a Case Report. Int Med Case Rep J 2023; 16:443-447. [PMID: 37551359 PMCID: PMC10404425 DOI: 10.2147/imcrj.s421611] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a case of a 35-year-old Ethiopian female patient presented with right upper quadrant abdominal pain. Studies suspected gallbladder disease, for which she operated. Intraoperatively, gallbladder perforation with choledochogastric fistula was identified, with Ascaris lumbricoides (AL) worm in the common bile duct. Cholecystectomy was performed; common bile was repaired with T-tube and gastric repair. Patient was discharged 11 days after. On subsequent follow-up at the surgical referral clinic, the patient had no complaints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashenafi Amsalu
- Department of Surgery, University of Gondar, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yohannis Molla
- Department of Surgery, University of Gondar, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gondar, Ethiopia
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13
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Cho SY, Hong ST. What was the main factor in successful control of ascariasis in Korea? Parasites Hosts Dis 2023; 61:103-126. [PMID: 37258258 DOI: 10.3347/phd.22152] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In the l950s, under the legacy of traditional agriculture, Ascaris lumbricoides, spread epidemically in the war-bitten society of Korea. Consensus on the parasite control was drafted in the Parasite Disease Prevention Act, which passed a parliamentary agreement in 1966, and established safe disposal of feces and mass chemotherapy as control strategies. Biannual stool examinations and treating infected schoolchildren were basic scheme of the control activity through which revenue could be secured for organized business. In the 27 years following 1969, a maximum of 16 million stool examinations had been done every year. Cellophane thick smear enabled the task. The infection declined remarkably in the 1970s when industrialization and green revolution proceeded. A population study of A. lumbricoides in the late 1970s helped us better understand its epidemiology. The data also settled down the understandable protest of teachers against the repeated stool examinations. In the 9 years following 1987, the target population was gradually reduced when the egg positive rate was below 0.1%. An article in the Korean Law, stipulating obligatory stool examinations, was made optional. Although the long-term Korean effort of Ascaris control was a success, the effect of mass chemotherapy was not as succinct in terms of lowering reinfection. In the period of control, Korean agricultural technology changed, and the economy grew and supplied sanitary facilities by which the vicious cycle was disconnected. Reduction of morbidity was a benefit of mass chemotherapy, which is the only control method feasible in economically difficult countries. The most important hurdle of parasite control in the 1960s was poverty of general population and limited financial resources in Korea but the society formed a consensus on the priority of intestinal helminthiasis control during the ordeal period. The national consensus in the 1960s was the critical milestone for Ascaris control in Korea. Under the social agreement, application of timely technical and research advancements in parasitology achieved the success of ascariasis elimination. The successful experience of ascariasis elimination in Korea can be a benchmark for countries where neglected tropical diseases are endemically recycled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Yull Cho
- Department of Molecular Parasitology, Sungkyunkwan University, School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Sung-Tae Hong
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Seoul National University, College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
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14
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Chae H, Suh SW, Choi YS, Sohn HJ, Lee SE, Do JH, Park HJ. Biliary ascariasis misidentified as a biliary stent in a patient undergoing liver resection. Parasites Hosts Dis 2023; 61:194-197. [PMID: 37258266 DOI: 10.3347/phd.23012] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Ascaris lumbricoides causes one of the most common soil-transmitted helminthiases globally. The worms mostly infect the human small intestine and elicit negligible or nonspecific symptoms, but there are reports of extraintestinal ectopic ascariasis. We describe a rare case of biliary ascariasis mistaken for biliary stent in a 72-year-old female patient with a history of liver resection. She visited our outpatient clinic complaining of right upper quadrant pain and fever for the past week. She had previously undergone left lateral sectionectomy for recurrent biliary and intrahepatic duct stones 2 years ago. Besides mildly elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase levels, her liver function tests were normal. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography revealed a linear filling defect closely resembling an internal stent from the common bile duct to the right intrahepatic bile duct. A live female A. lumbricoides adult worm was removed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Despite a significant decrease of the ascariasis prevalence in Korea, cases of biliary ascariasis are still occasionally reported. In this study, a additional case of biliary ascariasis, which was radiologically misdiagnosed as the biliary stent, was described in a hepatic resection patient by the worm recovery with ERCP in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hochang Chae
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
| | - Suk Won Suh
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
| | - Yoo Shin Choi
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
| | - Hee Ju Sohn
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
| | - Seung Eun Lee
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
| | - Jae Hyuk Do
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
| | - Hyun Jeong Park
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06973, Korea
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Civáňová Křížová K, Seifertová M, Baruš V, Hodová I, Mašová Š, Nurcahyo W, Foitová I. First Study of Ascaris lumbricoides from the Semiwild Population of the Sumatran Orangutan Pongo abelii in the Context of Morphological Description and Molecular Phylogeny. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13041016. [PMID: 37109546 PMCID: PMC10142304 DOI: 10.3390/life13041016] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
There is little evidence that the already described and accepted taxa of ascarids (Ascaris lumbricoides, A. suum, and A. ovis) infecting individuals of taxonomically distant groups (hominids, pigs, sheep, goats, and dogs) can be genetically or morphologically distinguished. However, despite described morphological differences, e.g., due to intraspecific variation, these are insufficient for species determination and may indicate differences amongst ascarids because of cross infections, hybrid production, and specific adaptations to hosts. Herein, the results of a molecular and morphological analysis of ascarids parasitising Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii Lesson, 1827) in native populations are presented. The research took place in the Bukit Lawang area, Indonesia, in 2009. Throughout the year, fresh faecal samples were collected regularly from 24 orangutans, and all were examined for the presence of nematode adults. Only five adult worms from two orangutan females were found during regular collection. Using the integrative taxonomic approach, the nematodes found were identified as A. lumbricoides. The significance of the find and its rarity is documented by the fact that this is the first confirmed finding of adult ascarids from an original orangutan site (not from a zoo) in more than 130 years (including the long-term study spanning the last 20 years focusing on orangutan parasites and natural antiparasitic drugs). More accurate morphometric parameters and genetic differences for the identification of ascarids were established. These parameters will be helpful for other findings in great apes and will also be suitable for further and precise determination of this parasite. The details distinguishing between male and female specimens are also stated and well defined. A comprehensive evaluation of the situation of Ascaris species parasitising orangutans, including a comparison with previously described orangutan parasite (i.e., A. satyri-species inquirenda), is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristína Civáňová Křížová
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Mária Seifertová
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Vlastimil Baruš
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Iveta Hodová
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Mašová
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Wisnu Nurcahyo
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Jl. Fauna 2, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Ivona Foitová
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
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Imalele EE, Braide EI, Emanghe UE, Effanga EO, Usang AU. Soil-transmitted helminth infection among school-age children in Ogoja, Nigeria: implication for control. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:1015-1026. [PMID: 36882536 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07809-3] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed at assessing the prevalence and risk factors of soil-transmitted helminthiases among school-aged children in Ogoja Local Government Area, Cross River State. Fecal samples were collected from 504 participants and analyzed using the Kato-Katz technique and modified Baermann technique for identifying larvae of Strongyloides. A total of 232 (46.0%) samples were positive for soil-transmitted helminths. The overall prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis were 14.1%, 16.5%, 2.6%, and 12.9% respectively. The prevalence of infections were higher among males (46.6%) than females (45.4%). Overall, parasitic infection was higher in the 5-7-year age group (65.6%) than in the other age groups (p = 0.000). Infection intensities of A. lumbricoides (84.00 EPG) (p = 0.044) and T. trichiura (96.00 EPG) (p = 0.041) were higher in school-age children aged 14-16 years. A. lumbricoides and hookworm co-infection (8.7%) was the most common mixed infection and was significantly higher in males than females. School-aged children who did not have prior knowledge about soil-transmitted helminth infections, the habit of drinking water without boiling, open defecation, use of pit latrine, and children who did not have toilet facilities in school were significantly associated with soil-transmitted helminthiases. There was a significant relationship between washing hands after using the toilet, the habit of putting on footwear outside the house, and soil-transmitted helminth infection. In addition to preventive chemotherapy, control measures should focus on health education, providing clean drinking water, proper disposal of human excreta and sewage, and environmental hygiene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edema Enogiomwan Imalele
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.
| | - Ekanem Ikpi Braide
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Ubleni Etta Emanghe
- Department of Medical Microbiology/Parasitology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel Offiong Effanga
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Anok Ukam Usang
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Sulmiati, Nurmantu F, Ahmadwirawan, Mariana N, Habar TR, Faruk M. Acute intestinal obstruction due to ascariasis in a child: A case report. Int J Surg Case Rep 2023; 104:107923. [PMID: 36791528 PMCID: PMC9950956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2023.107923] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE Ascariasis is one of the most common parasitic infections worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical developing countries with poor personal hygiene and sanitation. This condition is a staggering worldwide public health problem with high morbidity and mortality. Intestinal obstruction is an acute presentation that occurs in cases where clumps of worms form, causing partial or complete obstruction of the intestinal lumen. CASE PRESENTATION We report a case of a 5-year-old boy with total intestinal obstruction due to Ascaris lumbricoides, who underwent exploratory laparotomy and enterotomy to remove the worm masses. CLINICAL DISCUSSION Infestation with roundworms is widespread in developing countries. While the majority of the intestinal obstruction they cause may be treated conservatively, in some circumstances, surgery may be required. CONCLUSION Infestation with roundworms is widespread in developing countries, and although the majority of the intestinal obstruction they cause may be treated conservatively, in some circumstances, surgery may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulmiati
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University - RSUP Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Farid Nurmantu
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University - RSUP Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Ahmadwirawan
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University - RSUP Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Nita Mariana
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University - RSUP Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Tommy Rubiyanto Habar
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University - RSUP Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Faruk
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
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Kabatende J, Barry A, Mugisha M, Ntirenganya L, Bergman U, Bienvenu E, Aklillu E. Efficacy of Single-Dose Albendazole for the Treatment of Soil-Transmitted Helminthic Infections among School Children in Rwanda-A Prospective Cohort Study. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:139. [PMID: 37259291 PMCID: PMC9964298 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mass drug administration (MDA) of single-dose albendazole to all at-risk populations as preventive chemotherapy (deworming) is recommended by WHO to halt transmission of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) in endemic countries. We assessed the effectiveness of single-dose albendazole against STH infection in the western province of Rwanda, where STH prevalence remains high despite the implementation of preventive chemotherapy for over a decade. Two weeks before the scheduled MDA, 4998 school children (5-15 years old) were screened for STH infections (Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworm), and 1526 children who tested positive for at least one type of STH parasite were enrolled and received single-dose albendazole (400 mg) through MDA. A follow-up stool exam was performed at three weeks post-treatment using Kato-Katz. Efficacy was assessed by cure rate (CR), defined as the proportion of children who became egg-free, and egg reduction rates (ERRs) at three weeks post-treatment. The CR and ERR for hookworms (CR = 96.7%, ERR = 97.4%) was above, and for Ascaris lumbricoides (CR = 95.1%, ERR = 94.6%) was borderline compared with the WHO efficacy threshold (CR and ERR ≥ 95%). However, the CR and ERR for T. trichiura (CR = 17.6% ERR = 40.3%) were below the WHO threshold for efficacy (CR and ERR ≥ 50%). Having moderate-to-heavy infection intensity and coinfection with another type of STH parasites were independent risk factors for lower CR and ERR against Trichirus trichiura (p < 0.001). Single-dose albendazole used in the MDA program is efficacious for the treatment and control for hookworms and Ascaris lumbricoides infections but not effective for Trichirus trichiura. An alternative treatment regimen is urgently needed to prevent, control, and eliminate STH as a public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kabatende
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Abbie Barry
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael Mugisha
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, KK 737, Kigali P.O. Box 4285, Rwanda
| | - Lazare Ntirenganya
- Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority, Nyarutarama Plaza, KG 9 Avenue, Kigali P.O. Box 1948, Rwanda
| | - Ulf Bergman
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emile Bienvenu
- Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority, Nyarutarama Plaza, KG 9 Avenue, Kigali P.O. Box 1948, Rwanda
| | - Eleni Aklillu
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
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Kamdem CN, Fogue PS, Tiofack AAZ, Mewamba EM, Womeni HM, Koffi M, Simo G. Assessment of cetyl-trimethyl-ammonium bromide (CTAB) based method for the extraction of soil-transmitted helminth DNAs from stools for molecular dagnostic of soil-transmitted helminthiasis. J Microbiol Methods 2023; 204:106661. [PMID: 36565938 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2022.106661] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although several protocols were developed to extract DNA for soil-transmitted helminthiasis diagnostic, amplifying these extracts remains challenging due to DNA polymerase inhibitors. This study aimed to assess a DNA extraction method for efficient detection of soil-transmitted helminth species by determining stool mass and the type of DNA polymerase that can be used for this extraction method. For this study, 141 stool samples harbouring soil-transmitted eggs and 50 samples without egg were obtained from school-aged children of Makenene in the Centre region of Cameroon. DNA was extracted from 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg of stool using commercial kit and/or cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-based method. The amount of stool for molecular diagnostic of soil-transmitted helminthiasis was determined by amplifying Ascaris lumbricoides DNA. The performances of three DNA polymerases and CTAB-based method were assessed by amplifying DNA of different soil-transmitted helminth species. For this study, 94 stools with A. lumbricoides eggs, 39 with Trichuris trichuria and 15 with hookworm were analyzed. DNA of A. lumbricoides, T. trichuria, Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale were detected in 97.9% of extracts from stools harbouring soil-transmitted helminth eggs. Soil-transmitted helminth DNAs were significantly (X2 = 17.66; df = 3; p 〈00001) more amplified in extracts from 10 and 20 mg than those from 40 and 80 mg. The amplification rate with "Q5 high fidelity DNA polymerase" was significantly (X2 = 30.54; df = 2; p < 0.00001) higher than that of other DNA polymerases. Multiplex-PCR confirmed co-infections of A. lumbricoides with either T. trichuria or N. americanus. The extraction cost for the CTAB-based method was $1.45. This method appearedis reliable and 3 times cost effective than commercial kit. Its combination with the "Q5 high fidelity DNA polymerase" may improve soil-transmitted helminthiasis diagnostic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyrille Nguemnang Kamdem
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, PO. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Pythagore Soubgwi Fogue
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, PO. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Arnol Auvaker Zebaze Tiofack
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, PO. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Estelle Mezajou Mewamba
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, PO. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Hilaire Marcaire Womeni
- "Unité de Recherche de Biochimie, des plantes Médicinales, des Sciences alimentaires et Nutrition", University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Mathurin Koffi
- "Unité de Recherche en Génétique et Epidémiology Moléculaire, Jean Lorougnon Guédé University", Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Gustave Simo
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, PO. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon.
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Matras A, Stasiak A, Chmielewski T, Kaczmarek A. Testing of sand from recreational areas and sandpits in Warsaw, for presence of Ascaris Lumbricoides and Toxocara spp. Przegl Epidemiol 2023; 77:53-58. [PMID: 37283278 DOI: 10.32394/pe.77.05] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Improper maintenance of the cleanliness of sand in sandboxes can be a source of human pathogenic helminths, including Toxocara spp., Enterobius vermicularis, Ascaris lumbricoides, leading to parasitic infections. AIM OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sanitary condition of sandboxes in playgrounds and recreational areas in Warsaw for the presence of Human roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) and Toxocara spp. in sand. MATERIAL AND METHODS 450 sand samples from 90 sandboxes in the city of Warsaw were analyzed. The flotation method was used for the study, and the material was evaluated using a light microscope. RESULTS. The conducted examinations did not reveal the presence of parasite eggs, indicating that hygiene rules were observed and appropriate recommendations were followed. CONCLUSIONS The analyzed sand samples are free of the tested parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Matras
- National Institute of Publich Health NIH - National Research Institute
| | - Agata Stasiak
- National Institute of Publich Health NIH - National Research Institute
| | | | - Adam Kaczmarek
- National Institute of Publich Health NIH - National Research Institute
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw
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21
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Phuphisut O, Poodeepiyasawat A, Yoonuan T, Watthanakulpanich D, Chotsiri P, Reamtong O, Mousley A, Gobert GN, Adisakwattana P. Transcriptome profiling of male and female Ascaris lumbricoides reproductive tissues. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:477. [PMID: 36539906 PMCID: PMC9768952 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05602-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ascaris lumbricoides causes human ascariasis, the most prevalent helminth disease, infecting approximately 1 billion individuals globally. In 2019 the global disease burden was estimated to be 754,000 DALYs and resulted in 2090 deaths. In the absence of a vaccination strategy, treatment of ascariasis has relied on anthelminthic chemotherapy, but drug resistance is a concern. The propensity for reinfection is also a major challenge to disease control; female worms lay up to 200,000 eggs daily, which contaminate surrounding environments and remain viable for years, resulting in high transmission rates. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of reproductive processes, including control of egg production, spermatogenesis, oogenesis and embryogenesis, will drive the development of new drugs and/or vaccine targets for future ascariasis control. METHODS Transcriptome profiles of discrete reproductive and somatic tissue samples were generated from adult male and female worms using Illumina HiSeq with 2 × 150 bp paired-end sequencing. Male tissues included: testis germinal zone, testis part of vas deferens, seminal vesicle and somatic tissue. Female tissues included: ovary germinal zone, ovary part of the oviduct, uterus and somatic tissue. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the fragments per kilobases per million reads (FPKM) profiles. Hierarchical analysis was performed to identify tissue-specific genes. Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were employed to identify significant terms and pathways for the DEGs. RESULTS DEGs involved in protein phosphorylation and adhesion molecules were indicated to play a crucial role in spermatogenesis and fertilization, respectively. Those genes associated with the G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathway and small GTPase-mediated signal transduction pathway play an essential role in cytoskeleton organization during oogenesis. Additionally, DEGs associated with the SMA genes and TGF-β signaling pathway are crucial in adult female embryogenesis. Some genes associated with particular biological processes and pathways that were identified in this study have been linked to defects in germline development, embryogenesis and reproductive behavior. In the enriched KEGG pathway analysis, Hippo signaling, oxytocin signaling and tight junction pathways were identified to play a role in Ascaris male and female reproductive systems. CONCLUSIONS This study has provided comprehensive transcriptome profiles of discrete A. lumbricoides reproductive tissue samples, revealing the molecular basis of these functionally important tissues. The data generated from this study will provide fundamental knowledge on the reproductive biology of Ascaris and will inform future target identification for anti-ascariasis drugs and/or vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orawan Phuphisut
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Akkarin Poodeepiyasawat
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Tippayarat Yoonuan
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Dorn Watthanakulpanich
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Palang Chotsiri
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Onrapak Reamtong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Angela Mousley
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Geoffrey N Gobert
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Poom Adisakwattana
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
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22
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Miswan N, Singham GV, Othman N. Advantages and Limitations of Microscopy and Molecular Detections for Diagnosis of Soil-transmitted Helminths: An Overview. Helminthologia 2022; 59:321-40. [PMID: 36875683 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2022-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 1.5 billion people are infected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH) worldwide in sub-Saharan Africa, the United States of America, China, and East Asia. Heavy infections and polyparasitism are associated with higher morbidity rates, and the patients are exposed to increased vulnerability to other diseases. Therefore, accurate diagnosis followed by mass treatment for morbidity control is necessary.STH diagnosis commonly involves the microscopic observation of the presence of the STH eggs and larvae in the faecal samples. Furthermore, molecular approaches are increasingly utilised in monitoring and surveillance as they show higher sensitivity. Their capability to differentiate hookworm species is an advantage over the Kato-Katz technique. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of microscopy and various molecular tools used for STH detection.
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Fauziah N, Aviani JK, Agrianfanny YN, Fatimah SN. Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Nutritional Status in Children under Five Years Old: A Systematic Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:371. [PMID: 36422922 PMCID: PMC9697828 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic infections are common infectious diseases causing many health problems and impaired growth and physical development.. Children under five years old are the most vulnerable to infections, due to their immature immunity and feeding and exploratory behaviours. This systematic review aimed to assess the relationship between intestinal parasitic infections and undernutrition among children under 5 years old. Fifteen studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were classified as high-quality studies. Twelve parasites were reported, including Ascaris lumbricoides, Cryptosporodium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Enterobius vermicularis, Giardia lamblia, hookworm, Hymenolepis nana, Strongyloides sterocalis, Taenia spp. and Trichuris trichuria. Ascariasis is the most reported infection, with a prevalence ranging from 10.77% in Ethiopia to 57.14% in Malaysia, and is correlated with stunting (OR 2.17 (95% CI 1.14, 4.13), p = 0.02). Giardiasis is the second most reported infection, with a prevalence ranging from 4.43% in Ethiopia to 66.33% in the Central African Republic, and is related to an increased risk of stunting (OR 2.34 (95% CI 1.07, 5.10), p = 0.03)), wasting (OR 2.90 (95% CI 1.12, 7.49, p = 0.03)), and being underweight (OR 1.53 (95% CI 1.02, 2.29, p = 0.04)). The third and fourth most prevalent infections are T. trichiura and hookworm infections. Intestinal parasitic infections can occur very early in life and cause significant growth retardation. It is important to understand the prevalence and effects of infection based on the parasite species in order to implement therapeutic interventions and prevention controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisa Fauziah
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Basic Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Disease, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
| | - Jenifer Kiem Aviani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
| | - Yukan Niko Agrianfanny
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
| | - Siti Nur Fatimah
- Division of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
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24
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Evangelista FMD, van Vliet AHM, Lawton SP, Betson M. A reverse vaccinology approach identifies putative vaccination targets in the zoonotic nematode Ascaris. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1014198. [PMID: 36387396 PMCID: PMC9665164 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1014198] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascariasis is the most prevalent helminthic disease affecting both humans and pigs and is caused by the roundworms Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum. While preventive chemotherapy continues to be the most common control method, recent reports of anthelminthic resistance highlight the need for development of a vaccine against ascariasis. The aim of this study was to use a reverse vaccinology approach to identify potential vaccine candidates for Ascaris. Three Ascaris proteomes predicted from whole-genome sequences were analyzed. Candidate proteins were identified using open-access bioinformatic tools (e.g., Vacceed, VaxiJen, Bepipred 2.0) which test for different characteristics such as sub-cellular location, T-cell and B-cell molecular binding, antigenicity, allergenicity and phylogenetic relationship with other nematode proteins. From over 100,000 protein sequences analyzed, four transmembrane proteins were predicted to be non-allergen antigens and potential vaccine candidates. The four proteins are a Piezo protein, two voltage-dependent calcium channels and a protocadherin-like protein, are all expressed in either the muscle or ovaries of both Ascaris species, and all contained high affinity epitopes for T-cells and B-cells. The use of a reverse vaccinology approach allowed the prediction of four new potential vaccination targets against ascariasis in humans and pigs. These targets can now be further tested in in vitro and in vivo assays to prove efficacy in both pigs and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M. D. Evangelista
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Arnoud H. M. van Vliet
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Scott P. Lawton
- Centre for Epidemiology and Planetary Health, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Northern Faculty, Scotland's Rural University College (SRUC), An Lòchran, Inverness, United Kingdom
| | - Martha Betson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Martha Betson
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25
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Assoum M, Ortu G, Basáñez MG, Lau C, Clements ACA, Halton K, Fenwick A, Magalhães RJS. Impact of a 5-Year Mass Drug Administration Programme for Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases on the Spatial Distribution of Childhood Anaemia in Burundi from 2007 to 2011. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7100307. [PMID: 36288048 PMCID: PMC9611614 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7100307] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Childhood anaemia affects 1.8 billion people globally. Little is known about the long-term impact of mass drug administration (MDA) for the control of soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) on the spatiotemporal variation of anaemia prevalence and severity. We describe the long-term spatiotemporal impact of a 5-year STH MDA programme (2007−2011) on the prevalence of anaemia and anaemia severity in school-aged children (SAC) in Burundi. Methodology/Principal Findings: We used annual haemoglobin concentration and STH data collected during 2007−2011 in 31 schools in Burundi. Spatial dependence in prevalence and severity of anaemia was assessed using semivariograms. Bayesian geostatistical models were developed to (a) quantify the role of STH (adjusted for other anaemia determinants) in the spatiotemporal distribution of anaemia prevalence/severity, and (b) predict the geographical variation of both outcomes across Burundi. Adjusted population data were used to estimate the geographical distribution of the number of SAC at risk of anaemia and with low and moderate/severe anaemia. Infections with Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura were positively and significantly associated with childhood anaemia; hookworm infections were not. A significant decrease in anaemia prevalence, from 40−50% (2008) to 10−20% (2011) was predicted in western areas. The predicted prevalence of low-severity anaemia decreased from 40−50% (2008) to <20% (2011) in southern and eastern areas. Moderate/high-severity anaemia was concentrated in western regions of Burundi, with pockets of moderate/high-severity anaemia in central and northern regions in 2008. The overall number of predicted anaemic children decreased from 443,657 (2008) to 232,304 (2011), with a resurgence after MDA disruption in 2010 (to 480,605). Prevalence of low- and moderate-severity anaemia was higher in boys than in girls. Conclusions/Significance: Despite ongoing MDA, the prevalence of anaemia in SAC remained high and increased in certain parts of the country. It is recommended that MDA programmes targeting STH are complemented with specific anaemia interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Assoum
- Children’s Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Via Warrego Highway, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Giuseppina Ortu
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St. Mary’s Campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Maria-Gloria Basáñez
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Colleen Lau
- Children’s Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Archie C. A. Clements
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Kate Halton
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovations, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Alan Fenwick
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine (St. Mary’s Campus), Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Ricardo J. Soares Magalhães
- Children’s Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Via Warrego Highway, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
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26
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Hajare ST, Mulu T, Upadhye VJ, Chauhan NM, Eriso F. Prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides infections among elementary school children and associated risk factors from Southern Ethiopia. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:643-652. [PMID: 36091269 PMCID: PMC9458788 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01475-5] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic infections are distributed virtually throughout the world, with high prevalence rates in tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world as well as in Ethiopia. Children between age groups of 5-10 years are at the highest risk of infection. The intestinal nematode Ascaris lumbricoides infects approximately 25% of the world's population annually. Hence, this study was the first attempt to assess the prevalence and associated factors of A. lumbricoides infection among the school children from Offa district, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April, 2020 in three selected elementary school. Data were collected through questionnaires and stool samples examination. The overall prevalence of A. lumbricoides was noted as 41.4% and was the leading cause of intestinal parasitoids followed by Schistosoma mansoni (27.6%), Trichuris trichiura (18.1%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (4.1%). Children age group between 5 and 10 years found more susceptible to the infection. Eating habits like unwashed raw vegetables (P = 0.035), absence of toilets (P = 0.000), children who defecate in open field (P = 0.041), drinking unprotected water (P = 0.034), toilet without cover (P = 0.027), lack of hand washing before meal and after defecation (P = 0.000), (P = 0.048) were the key factors significantly associated with A. lumbricoides infection. The present study showed that A. lumbricoides was a major health problem among school children and requires annual de-worming to control morbidity associated with intestinal parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Tulshiram Hajare
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, SNNPR, 419 Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Tizazu Mulu
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, SNNPR, 419 Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Vijay J. Upadhye
- Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, 391760 Vadodara, Gujarat India
| | - Nitin Mahendra Chauhan
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, SNNPR, 419 Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Feleke Eriso
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, SNNPR, 419 Dilla, Ethiopia
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Eamsobhana P, Yong HS, Boonyong S, Wanachiwanawin D, Tungtrongchitr A. Genetic diversity and identity of Ascaris worms from human and pig hosts in Thailand. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2022; 33:100752. [PMID: 35820723 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2022.100752] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ascaris roundworms are of public health and socio-economic importance worldwide. They are conventionally attributed to two taxa - A. lumbricoides infecting principally human and A. suum infecting principally pig. Phylogenomic analysis has revealed that Ascaris worms from both human and pig are represented in Clades A and B. A recent study indicates that the Ascaris worms from human and pig in Thailand belong to Clade A. We examined adult Ascaris worms from human and pig in Thailand by means of the partial sequences of three mitochondrial genes (cox1, cox2 and nad1) and concatenation of these genes. Phylogenomic analysis indicates that two isolates (H1,H2) of A. lumbricoides from human belonged to Clade B; one isolate (H3) belonged to Clade A (based on cox1, cox2 and concatenated sequences) or as an outlier to Clades A and B (based on nad1 sequences). All the eight isolates of A. suum from pig clustered in Clade A. The partial nad1 and the concatenated sequences revealed two lineages of A. suum isolates which were distinct from the two A. lumbricoides isolates of Clade B. It is evident that greater genetic diversity, and a more robust phylogeny, could be uncovered by the application of multiple genes. In sum, the present study reveals the presence in Thailand of A. lumbricoides from human in Clades A and B which necessitates appropriate treatment and control measures; Clades A and B have been reported to contain haplotypes of Ascaris worms from both human and pig in other parts of the world. A country wide study is needed to elucidate the identity, distribution, prevalence, cross transmission, genetic diversity and phylogeny of the Ascaris worms in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praphathip Eamsobhana
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Hoi-Sen Yong
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sudarat Boonyong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Darawan Wanachiwanawin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Tungtrongchitr
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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28
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Dos Santos TR, Furtado LFV, de Carvalho Araujo A, da Silva Medeiros C, Germano PHV, de Oliveira VNGM, Rabelo EML. Development of allele-specific PCR methodology (AS-PCR) to screening A. lumbricoides and A. suum. Parasitol Res 2022. [PMID: 35710846 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07572-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum are described as helminths that infect humans and pigs, respectively. It is estimated that infection by A. lumbricoides affects about 447 million individuals living in tropical regions of developing countries. However, there is an increasing number of cases of human ascariasis in countries with no recent history of autochthonous infection by A. lumbricoides. In these places, pigs have been incriminated as the main source of human infection. Conventional parasitological diagnosis does not allow species-specific identification, and the real epidemiological scenario of human and swine ascariasis is still uncertain. Therefore, this work presents the application of a species-specific molecular diagnosis, based on the allele-specific PCR methodology (AS-PCR), using the Internal Transcript Space 1 (ITS-1) of the ribosomal DNA, as a target for differentiating between the two species, using DNA obtained from eggs. To validate the methodology, stool samples positive for Ascaris spp, were obtained from 68 humans from seven Brazilian states and from six pigs from the state of Minas Gerais. All samples obtained from humans were genotyped as A. lumbricoides and all samples obtained from swine were genotyped as A. suum. These results are in agreement with the literature, which demonstrates that in most endemic regions, transmission cycles are separate. Therefore, the execution of this work allowed the availability of a useful methodology for the differential diagnosis of the species, which may contribute to the characterization of the real epidemiological profile of human and swine ascariasis, and to the implementation of future control strategies.
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Aung E, Han KT, Gordon CA, Hlaing NN, Aye MM, Htun MW, Wai KT, Myat SM, Thwe TL, Tun A, Wangdi K, Li Y, Williams GM, Clements ACA, Vaz Nery S, McManus DP, Gray DJ. High prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections in Myanmar schoolchildren. Infect Dis Poverty 2022; 11:28. [PMID: 35272701 PMCID: PMC8908594 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-022-00952-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Achieving the elimination of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections requires a sufficient understanding of the current epidemiological status of STH endemicity. We aimed to examine the status of STH in Myanmar – a country with the eighth highest STH prevalence in the world, 10 years after instigation of the national deworming programme. Methods In August 2016 we screened for STH infections using Kato Katz (KK) microscopy and real-time PCR (qPCR) in schoolchildren from the Bago Region township of Phyu, a STH sentinel site in Myanmar. Ten schools were randomly selected, and one stool sample each from a total of 264 students was examined. Prevalence and intensity of infection were calculated for each STH. Results High prevalence of STH was identified in the study area with 78.8% of the schoolchildren infected with at least one STH by qPCR, and 33.3% by KK. The most prevalent STH was Trichuris trichiura, diagnosed by both KK (26.1%) and qPCR (67.1%), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (15.5% KK; 54.9% qPCR). No hookworm infections were identified by KK; however, the qPCR analysis showed a high prevalence of Ancylostoma sp. infection (29.6%) with few Necator americanus (1.1%) infections. Conclusions Despite bi-annual deworming of schoolchildren in the fourth-grade and below, STH prevalence remains stubbornly high. These results informed the expansion of the Myanmar National STH control programme to include all school-aged children by the Ministry of Health and Sports in 2017, however further expansion to the whole community should be considered along with improving sanitation and hygiene measures. This would be augmented by rigorous monitoring and evaluation, including national prevalence surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eindra Aung
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kay Thwe Han
- Parasitology Research Division, Department of Medical Research, Ministry of Health and Sports, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Catherine A Gordon
- Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Moe Moe Aye
- Department of Zoology, University of Yangon, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Myo Win Htun
- Parasitology Research Division, Department of Medical Research, Ministry of Health and Sports, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Khin Thet Wai
- Parasitology Research Division, Department of Medical Research, Ministry of Health and Sports, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Su Mon Myat
- Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health and Sports, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | - Thida Lay Thwe
- Department of Zoology, University of Yangon, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Aung Tun
- Ministry of Health and Sports, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | - Kinley Wangdi
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Yuesheng Li
- Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Hunan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Control On Schistosomiasis in Lake Region, Yueyang, China
| | - Gail M Williams
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Archie C A Clements
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Susana Vaz Nery
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Donald P McManus
- Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Darren J Gray
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
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Hong S, Jung BK, Song H, Cho J, Sohn WM, Hong SJ, Ryu JY, Kim HS, Jeong MH, Htoon TT, Tin HH, Chai JY. Failure of Repeated MDA with Albendazole for Trichuriasis Control in Schoolchildren of the Yangon Region, Myanmar. Korean J Parasitol 2021; 59:607-613. [PMID: 34974667 PMCID: PMC8721305 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2021.59.6.607] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are still a considerable challenge in Myanmar. We undertook a control program for STH infections (especially Trichuris trichiura) among schoolchildren in Myanmar using mass drug administration (MDA) and health education. Around 1,700 schoolchildren from 15 primary schools in 3 suburban districts (Shwe Pyi Thar, Twantay, and Kyauktan) of the Yangon Region were subjected in this study during 2017-2019. All of the schoolchildren in each school were orally administered albendazole (400 mg in a single dose) 2, 3, and 4 times a year in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. The results revealed that the egg positive rate of any intestinal helminths (including STH) was reduced from 37.6% (649/1,724) in 2017 to 22.8% (352/1,542) in 2019. The egg positive rate of Ascaris lumbricoides was decreased remarkably from 23.3% (402/1,724) in 2017 to 3.6% (56/1,542) in 2019. However, that of T. trichiura was only slightly reduced from 26.9% (464/1,724) in 2017 to 20.2% (312/1,542) in 2019. The intensity of infection with A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura was both more or less reduced, and the proportion of light infection cases with A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura increased from 35.6% in 2017 to 64.3% in 2019 and from 70.3% in 2017 to 81.7% in 2019, respectively. The results indicated that repeated MDAs (2-4 times a year for 3 years) using albendazole on schoolchildren in Myanmar failed to control T. trichiura infection. For a successful control of trichuriasis in Myanmar, new MDA strategies, using a modified albendazole regimen (multiple daily doses for 2 or 3 days) or an alternative anthelmintic drug, such as oxantel pamoate, is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sooji Hong
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | - Bong-Kwang Jung
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | - Hyemi Song
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | - Jaeeun Cho
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | - Woon-Mok Sohn
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, and Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju 52727,
Korea
| | - Sung-Jong Hong
- Convergence Research Center for Insect Vectors, Incheon University, Incheon 22012,
Korea
| | - Jin-Youp Ryu
- Bureau of Health Examination and Management, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | - Hyun-Seung Kim
- Bureau of Health Examination and Management, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | - Mun-Hyoo Jeong
- Bureau of Health Examination and Management, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
| | | | | | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649,
Korea
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080,
Korea
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Gyawali S, Das SK. Gall bladder Ascariasis: A rare entity. IDCases 2021; 26:e01333. [PMID: 34815938 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2021.e01333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Gall bladder ascariasis is a rare entity. The causative organism for gall bladder ascariasis is Ascaris lumbricoides It usually presents as acute acalculous cholecystitis. Conservative management with anti-helminthic drugs is preferred while sometimes the patient may need surgical intervention.
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Jayaram S, Saya GK, Rajkumari N, Ulaganeethi R, Roy PK, Mathavaswami V. Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection and its associated factors among children in Puducherry, South India: a community-based study. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:897-902. [PMID: 34789970 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01378-x] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
There is paucity of studies at community level on prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among under 18 years age group. This cross-sectional community-based research aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal worm infections and its associated risk factors among 1 to 18 years age group in Puducherry, India. Sociodemographic, behavioral and other associated factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. One stool sample was collected from each participant and examined using direct (saline/iodine wet mount) and concentration (floatation/sedimentation) microscopic techniques. Log binomial regression analysis was used to find the factors independently associated with intestinal parasitic infection. Of 187 participants who provided the stool sample, 25 (13.4%) had at least one of the parasitic infections and among them 12 (6.4%) had Soil Transmitted Helminth infection (STH) and 13 (6.9%) had intestinal protozoan parasites. Parasitic infection is marginally higher among 1 to 7 years age group (14.4%) compared to 8 to 18 years age group (12.1%). After adjusting for confounding, urban residence (APR = 3.3, 95% CI 1.4-8.0) and open-air defecation (APR = 3.3, 95% CI 1.4-7.5) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. One out of eight children had any of the parasitic infection and nearly 50% of parasitic infections were caused by STH. Those children residing in urban areas and practice of open-air defecation had higher prevalence of parasitic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suganya Jayaram
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Ganesh Kumar Saya
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Nonika Rajkumari
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Revathi Ulaganeethi
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Pritam Kumar Roy
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
| | - Vijayageetha Mathavaswami
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India
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Maurelli MP, Alves LC, Aggarwal CS, Cociancic P, Levecke B, Cools P, Montresor A, Ianniello D, Gualdieri L, Cringoli G, Rinaldi L. Ascaris lumbricoides eggs or artefacts? A diagnostic conundrum. Parasitology 2021; 148:1554-1559. [PMID: 34250886 PMCID: PMC8564801 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021001256] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Due to the presence of artefacts in stool samples, the copromicroscopic diagnosis of Ascaris lumbricoides is not always straightforward, particularly in the case of fertilized decorticated eggs. A total of 286 stool samples from 115 schoolchildren in India and 171 adult immigrants in Italy were screened for the presence of A. lumbricoides eggs by both Kato-Katz thick smear and Mini-FLOTAC. If the outer layer of A. lumbricoides eggs was absent, two aliquots of each stool sample were preserved: one for coproculture to identify larvae after development and one to compose a pool of stool for molecular analysis. A total of 64 stool samples (22.4%) were positive for A. lumbricoides using the Kato-Katz thick smear; 36 (56.3%) of these showed mammillated A. lumbricoides eggs, 25 (39.1%) showed elements resembling fertilized decorticated eggs, while three samples (4.7%) showed both mammillated and decorticated eggs. By Mini-FLOTAC, 39 stool samples (13.6%) were positive, while decorticated A. lumbricoides-like eggs were identified as artefacts. These results were confirmed by negative coprocultures and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Mini-FLOTAC can be used for a reliable diagnosis of A. lumbricoides, thanks to the flotation and translation features which allow a clearer view, resulting in the correct identification of A. lumbricoides eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. P. Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
| | - L. C. Alves
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - C. S. Aggarwal
- Division of Parasitic Diseases, National Centre for Disease Control, 22 Shamnath Marg, Delhi, India
| | - P. Cociancic
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE-CONICET-UNLP-asociado a CICPBA), La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - B. Levecke
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, WHO Collaborating Centre BEL-42, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - P. Cools
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, WHO Collaborating Centre BEL-42, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - A. Montresor
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - D. Ianniello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
| | - L. Gualdieri
- Medical Center, Centro per la Tutela della Salute degli Immigrati, Naples, Italy
| | - G. Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
| | - L. Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR, WHO Collaborating Centre ITA-116, Naples, Italy
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Mesele G, Mengistu Z. Live ascaris in urinary bladder: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2021; 15:480. [PMID: 34587991 PMCID: PMC8482685 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-021-03045-4] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ascaris in urinary bladder is an extremely rare phenomenon. It may occur after fistula formation between urinary and gastrointestinal tract or by retrograde migration of adult worm, and is associated with complications. Case presentation A 47-year-old Amhara woman from rural northwest Ethiopia presented with a complaint of difficulty to fully evacuate her bladder of 1 year duration. Ultrasonography showed thickened bladder wall with echo debris. There were also thickened bowel and fluid-filled loops of intestine adjacent to urinary bladder. On cystoscopy examination, there was live ascaris swimming inside the bladder. Enterovesical fistula was entertained and explorative laparotomy performed. Findings confirmed presence of iliovesical fistula. The fistula was divided and the continuity of the intestine restored. The inflammatory mass was subjected to histopathology study and turned out to be benign inflammatory reaction. She was also given antihelminthics. Postoperatively, her course was uneventful, and she was discharged cured. Conclusion Though it is extremely rare to have urinary symptoms from ascariasis, it is important to have a high index of suspicion for all possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gashaw Mesele
- Department of Surgery, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Zelalem Mengistu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
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Kaur R, Arora N, Rawat SS, Keshri AK, Singh N, Show SK, Kumar P, Mishra A, Prasad A. Immunoinformatics driven construction of multi-epitope vaccine candidate against Ascaris lumbricoides using its entire immunogenic epitopes. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1637-1649. [PMID: 34448645 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1974298] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ascaris lumbricoides infects 80 million people per year, causing malnutrition, stunted growth of children etc., but there is no vaccine available against it. We aimed to design a multimeric-subunit vaccine using comprehensive immunoinformatic approach. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The T and B cell epitopes were shortlisted on antigenicity, allergenicity, and toxicity from proteome data and joined with appropriate linkers. The physical characteristics of vaccine candidate was calculated and docking/molecular dynamic simulation performed to validate its robustness. The multimeric protein was codon optimized and in-silico cloned in pET28b. RESULTS From the 23,604 proteins of Ascaris, we filtered based on epitope prediction, localization, antigenicity, and allergenicity. Prepared a vaccine of 534 amino acid long, 56.31 kD weight and pI 4.52. Physiochemical features showed it is soluble, highly antigenic and non-allergenic. Its tertiary structure was forecasted, certified, and refined. The immunoinformatic simulation studies showed it to be potent T and B cell stimulator. CONCLUSIONS We identified highly antigenic peptides of Ascaris from its proteome with good potential to induce innate as well as humoral immune response. These peptides were used to design a chimeric vaccine against Ascariasis infection, which can be used for prophylactic purpose but needs experimental and clinical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimanpreet Kaur
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Naina Arora
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Suraj Singh Rawat
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Anand Kumar Keshri
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Neha Singh
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Sumit Kumar Show
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Pramod Kumar
- Program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Chulalongkorn University, Pathumwan, Thailand
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, India
| | - Amit Prasad
- School of Basic Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
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Oh CS, Shim SY, Kim Y, Hong JH, Chai JY, Fujita H, Seo M, Shin DH. Helminth Eggs Detected in Soil Samples of a Possible Toilet Structure Found at the Capital Area of Ancient Baekje Kingdom of Korea. Korean J Parasitol 2021; 59:393-397. [PMID: 34470090 PMCID: PMC8413860 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2021.59.4.393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Although research conducted in East Asia has uncovered parasite eggs from ancient toilets or cesspits, data accumulated to date needs to be supplemented by more archaeoparasitological studies. We examined a total of 21 soil samples from a toilet-like structure at the Hwajisan site, a Baekje-period royal villa, in present-day Korea. At least 4 species of helminth eggs, i.e., Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Clonorchis sinensis, and Trichuris sp. (or Trichuris vulpis) were detected in 3 sediment samples of the structure that was likely a toilet used by Baekje nobles. The eggs of T. trichiura were found in all 3 samples (no. 1, 4, and 5); and A. lumbricoides eggs were detected in 2 samples (no. 4 and 5). C. sinensis and T. vulpis-like eggs were found in no. 5 sample. From the findings of this study, we can suppose that the soil-transmitted helminths were prevalent in ancient Korean people, including the nobles of Baekje Kingdom during the 5th to 7th century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Seok Oh
- Department of Mortuary Science, College of Bio-convergence, Eulji University, Seongnam 13135, Korea
| | | | - Yongjun Kim
- Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation, Seoul 06153, Korea
| | - Jong Ha Hong
- Institute of Korean Archaeology and Ancient History, Kyunghee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649, Korea
| | - Hisashi Fujita
- Research Center for Knowledge Science in Cultural Heritage, Doshisha University, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan.,Paleolabo. Co. Ltd., 335-0016, Saitama, Japan
| | - Min Seo
- Department of Parasitology, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Shin
- Bioanthropology and Paleopathology Lab, Institute of Forensic and Anthropological Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
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37
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Mekone Nkwele I, Mbono R, Bissohong G, Djike Puepi Y, Nlende Mengalle B, Medi Sike C, Ngando L, Ngo Um Sap S, Chiabi A. Intestinal Parasitic Infections: A Rare Coinfection by Ascaris lumbricoides and Eristalis tenax in a 10-month-old Infant in Cameroon. JPGN Rep 2021; 2:e082. [PMID: 37205938 PMCID: PMC10191576 DOI: 10.1097/pg9.0000000000000082] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
We report a rare case of coinfection by intestinal parasitosis and myiasis (Ascaris lumbricoides and Eristalis tenax) in a 10-month-old female infant living in Yaounde, an urban area in a low- and middle-income country. Incidental discovery was made following symptoms of acute vomiting and diarrhea with a massive release of an estimated thirty adult A. lumbricoides worms and E. tenax larvae through nasal, buccal, and anal routes. Diagnosis was based on the macroscopic appearance of the worms and the fly larvae. Treatment with benzimidazoles was initiated, with a resolution of symptoms within one week. This case highlights the challenges of public health eradication guidelines (such as the antihelminthic drugs marketing authorization) in our setting and discusses the protocols of management in less than 1-year-old infants in sub-saharan Africa, a region of high helminthic endemicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Mekone Nkwele
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Ritha Mbono
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Britha Nlende Mengalle
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Christiane Medi Sike
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Laure Ngando
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Andreas Chiabi
- From the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Murangi T, Prakash P, Moreira BP, Basera W, Botha M, Cunningham S, Facey-Thomas H, Halajian A, Joshi L, Ramjith J, Falcone FH, Horsnell W, Levin ME. Ascaris lumbricoides and ticks associated with sensitization to galactose α1,3-galactose and elicitation of the alpha-gal syndrome. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 149:698-707.e3. [PMID: 34333031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND IgE to galactose alpha-1,3 galactose (alpha-gal) causes alpha-gal syndrome (delayed anaphylaxis after ingestion of mammalian meat). Development of sensitization has been attributed to tick bites; however, the possible role of other parasites has not been well studied. OBJECTIVE Our aims were to assess the presence, relative abundances, and site of localization of alpha-gal-containing proteins in common ectoparasites and endoparasites endemic in an area of high prevalence of alpha-gal syndrome, as well as to investigate the ability of ascaris antigens to elicit a reaction in a humanized rat basophil in vitro sensitization model. METHODS Levels of total IgE, Ascaris-specific IgE, and alpha-gal IgE were measured in sera from patients with challenge-proven alpha-gal syndrome and from controls without allergy. The presence, concentration, and localization of alpha-gal in parasites were assessed by ELISA, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The ability of Ascaris lumbricoides antigen to elicit IgE-dependent reactivity was demonstrated by using the RS-ATL8 basophil reporter system. RESULTS Alpha-gal IgE level correlated with A lumbricoides-specific IgE level. Alpha-gal protein at 70 to 130 kDa was detected in A lumbricoides at concentrations higher than those found in Rhipicephalus evertsi and Amblyomma hebraeum ticks. Immunohistochemistry was used to localize alpha-gal in tick salivary acini and the helminth gut. Non-alpha-gal-containing A lumbricoides antigens activated RS-ATL8 basophils primed with serum from subjects with alpha-gal syndrome. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the presence, relative abundances, and site of localization of alpha-gal-containing proteins in parasites. The activation of RS-ATL8 IgE reporter cells primed with serum from subjects with alpha-gal syndrome on exposure to non-alpha-gal-containing A lumbricoides proteins indicates a possible role of exposure to A lumbricoides in alpha-gal sensitization and clinical reactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatenda Murangi
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology, Division of immunology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Prema Prakash
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Bernardo Pereira Moreira
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Wisdom Basera
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Burden of Disease Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Maresa Botha
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stephen Cunningham
- Glycoscience Group, Biomedical Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Heidi Facey-Thomas
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ali Halajian
- Research Administration and Development, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, South Africa
| | - Lokesh Joshi
- Glycoscience Group, Biomedical Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Jordache Ramjith
- Department for Health Evidence, Biostatistics Research Group, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Franco H Falcone
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - William Horsnell
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology, Division of immunology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Institute of Microbiology and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michael E Levin
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, Department of Paediatrics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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39
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Worland DT, Triay J. An unexpected cause of iron deficiency anaemia. Am J Med Sci 2021; 363:e11. [PMID: 34265260 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2021.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dr Thomas Worland
- Department of General Medicine, Bendigo Health, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Jessica Triay
- Department of General Medicine, Bendigo Health, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
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40
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Cavallero S, Rondón S, Monterrosa IA, Šnábel V, Papajová I, Goldová M, Štrkolcová G, Caraballo L, Acevedo N, D'Amelio S. Genotyping of Ascaris spp. infecting humans and pigs in Italy, Slovakia and Colombia. Infect Genet Evol 2021; 94:104997. [PMID: 34252615 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.104997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The systematics and taxonomy of Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum, two of the world's most widespread nematodes, still represent a highly debated scientific issue. Two different transmission scenarios have been described according to endemicity: separated host-specific transmission cycles in endemic regions, and a single pool of infection shared by humans and pigs in non-endemic regions. The swine roundworm A. suum is now recognized as an important cause of human ascariasis also in endemic areas such as China, where cross-infections and hybridization have also been reported, as well as in non-endemic regions like Italy. This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of human and pig ascariasis in three countries representing different epidemiological scenarios: Italy as a non-endemic country, Colombia as an endemic country, and Slovakia as a non-endemic country, but with a poor socio-economic context linked to some focal populations of Roma settlements. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 237 nematodes were analysed: 46 from Colombia (13 from humans, 33 from pigs), 114 from Slovakia (20 from humans, 94 from pigs) and 77 from Italy (17 from humans and 60 from pigs). Genotyping by PCR-RFLP of nuclear (ITS) and sequencing of mitochondrial (cox1) target regions were performed. ITS genotypes were used to estimate the Hardy-Weinberg (HW) equilibrium according to hosts and country of origin. The partial cox1 sequences were used to analyse genetic polymorphisms according to hosts and country of origin, as well as to infer the network of haplotypes, their evolutionary relationships and geographical distribution. RESULTS 110 quality cox1 sequences were obtained. Haplotype network revealed three main groups corresponding to clade A, B and C. Clade C included most of the human cases from Italy, while those from Slovakia and Colombia were grouped in clade B. Ascaris from Italian and Colombian pigs showed HW equilibrium at the ITS marker, while disequilibrium was found in A. lumbricoides from Slovak pigs, which suggest a high unexpected amount of roundworms of human origin circulating also in pigs. CONCLUSIONS This study updates and extends the current understanding of Ascaris species and genotypes circulating in different epidemiological scenarios, with particular attention to the inclusion of human-derived Ascaris in the phylogenetic cluster C. Despite the evidence of HW equilibrium in the ITS in pig-derived Italian samples, the amount of genetic variation seems to support the existence of two closely related species.
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Deka S, Barua D, Saikia H, Kalita D. Comparison of diagnostic performance of single and multiple fecal sampling in the detection of soil-transmitted helminths in school-aged children. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:324-329. [PMID: 34295029 PMCID: PMC8254673 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01370-5] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are widely distributed globally and India is a significant contributor to the overall global burden of the disease. Microscopic methods like Kato-Katz (K-K) thick smear and direct smear microscopy by wet mount (DSM) are widely used for STH diagnosis due to their ease in performance. Still, low sensitivity proves to be a significant limitation of these methods. This study explores the diagnostic performance of two and three consecutive-day stool samples compared to the common practice of single stool sample examination. We observed that the three consecutive-day stool examination technique increased overall helminth positivity from 12% to 16.3% in K-K and 11.5-15.9% in DSM, indicating that multiple sampling can diagnose intestinal helminthiasis more accurately. A significant increase in the intensities of hookworms (by 37.5%; p value: 0.001) and Trichuris trichiura (by 47.8%; p value: 0.037) (measured in terms of fecal egg count) was also observed. The methods undertaken in the current study are comparable in detecting the helminths as the marginal increase in positivity by K-K (16.32% vs. 15.86%) was statistically insignificant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangeeta Deka
- Department of Microbiology, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College & Hospital (FAAMCH), Barpeta, Assam India
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Virbhadra Road, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249203 India
| | - Dipankar Barua
- Department of Pathology, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College & Hospital (FAAMCH), Barpeta, Assam India
| | - Hiranya Saikia
- Department of SPM, Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH), Dibrugarh, Assam India
| | - Deepjyoti Kalita
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Virbhadra Road, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249203 India
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Makata K, Ensink J, Ayieko P, Hansen C, Sichalwe S, Mngara J, Mcharo O, Mazigo H, Seni J, Dreibelbis R, Rockowitz S, Okello E, Grosskurth H, Kinung'hi S, Kapiga S. Hand hygiene intervention to optimise soil-transmitted helminth infection control among primary school children: the Mikono Safi cluster randomised controlled trial in northwestern Tanzania. BMC Med 2021; 19:125. [PMID: 34016091 PMCID: PMC8139108 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-021-01987-6] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are highly prevalent in resource-limited countries. We assessed the effect of a combination intervention aiming to enhance handwashing with soap on STH reinfection following mass drug administration among primary school children in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania. METHODS We conducted a cluster randomised trial in sixteen primary schools with known high STH prevalence. Schools were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either receive the intervention or continue with routine health education. The intervention included teacher-led classroom teaching, parental engagement sessions, environmental modifications and improved handwashing stations. The evaluation involved two cross-sectional surveys in a representative sample of students, with the end-line survey conducted 12 months after the baseline survey. The primary outcome was the combined prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura infections at the end-line survey. Secondary outcomes included reported handwashing behaviour, the prevalence and intensity of individual STHs, and hand contamination with STH ova and coliform bacteria. End-line STH prevalence and intensity were adjusted for baseline differences of potential confounders. RESULTS At the end-line survey, 3081 school children (1566 from intervention schools and 1515 from control schools) provided interview data and stool specimens. More school children in the intervention group reported the use of water and soap during handwashing compared to school children in the control group (58% vs. 35%; aOR=1.76, 95%CI 1.28-2.43, p=0.001). The combined prevalence of A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura infections was 39% in both trial arms (aOR = 1.19; 95%CI 0.74-1.91). The prevalence of A. lumbricoides was 15% in the intervention and 17% in the control arm (aOR =1.24, 95%CI 0.59-2.59) and that of T. trichiura was 31% in both arms (aOR=1.17, 95%CI 0.73-1.88). No significant differences were found for STH infection intensity in both the main study and the hand contamination sub-study. CONCLUSIONS The intervention was effective in increasing reported handwashing behaviour at school, but failed to show a similar effect in the home. The intervention had no effect on STH infection, possibly due to infection in the home environment, other transmission routes such as contaminated water or food or limited changes in school children's handwashing behaviour. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was registered on June 21, 2017, by the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number ( ISRCTN45013173) .
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Makata
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Jeroen Ensink
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Philip Ayieko
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Christian Hansen
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Simon Sichalwe
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Julius Mngara
- National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Onike Mcharo
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Humphrey Mazigo
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Entomology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Jeremiah Seni
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences (CUHAS), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | | | - Sarah Rockowitz
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Heiner Grosskurth
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Safari Kinung'hi
- National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU), Mwanza, Tanzania. .,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK. .,National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Mwanza, Tanzania.
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Mingoti Poague KIH, Mingoti SA, Heller L. Association between water and sanitation and soil-transmitted helminthiases: Analysis of the Brazilian National Survey of Prevalence (2011-2015). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 79:83. [PMID: 34011389 PMCID: PMC8132366 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-021-00602-7] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background Most of the studies conducted in Brazil assessing the relationship between water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections, have focused on cases, reflecting the reality of small areas and not of a countrywide situation. In order to fill this gap, the current paper presents an epidemiological study exploring the association between water and sanitation and STHs prevalence in students from 7 to 17 years old, in all 27 Brazilian Federation Units. Methods Three ecological studies were carried out considering the prevalence of ascariasis, trichuriasis, and hookworm as outcome variables. The sample consisted of 197,567 students aged 7–17 years old living in 521 Brazilian municipalities. Data were retrieved from the National Survey on the Prevalence of Schistosomiasis mansoni and Soil-transmitted helminth infections (2011–2015). The Generalized Linear Model with the negative binomial distribution was used to evaluate the statistical association between outcomes and explanatory variables. Univariate and Multivariate analyses were conducted with 25 and 5 % significance levels, respectively. Data were aggregated considering municipalities as the geographical unit for analysis. Results Protective association was found between access to filtered water and adequate sanitation in schools with ascariasis (RR 0.989, CI 95 % 0.983–0.996; RR 0.988, CI 95 % 0.977–0.998), access to filtered water in schools with trichuriasis (RR 0.986, CI 95 % 0.979–0.993) and adequate sanitation at home with hookworm ((RR 0.989, CI 95 % 0.982–0.996). The percentage of population served with Bolsa Família Program, used as a proxy for poverty, was the only significant variable common to all models. Conclusions Our findings support that WASH, both in schools and homes, are essential to schoolchildren health with regard to STHs. However, sanitary interventions will not be fully effective in preventing STH infections without promoting access to quality public services, particularly for people living in poverty, the most vulnerable group. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13690-021-00602-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasandra Isabella Helouise Mingoti Poague
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627 - Pampulha, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| | | | - Léo Heller
- René Rachou Institute, The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation in the State of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Oh CS, Lee H, Kim J, Hong JH, Cha SC, Chai JY, Ha CM, Kang RJ, Lim DS, Shin DH, Seo M. Two Helminthic Cases of Human Mummy Remains from Joseon-Period Graves in Korea. Korean J Parasitol 2021; 59:149-152. [PMID: 33951770 PMCID: PMC8106984 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2021.59.2.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our previous research on coprolite specimens from the mummies of Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910 CE) has revealed various species of parasite eggs. Herein, we added 2 new helminthic cases of human remains from Joseon-period graves in the Republic of Korea (Korea). The organic materials precipitated on the hip bones of 2 half-mummied cases (Goryeong and Gwangmyeong cases) were collected, rehydrated, and examined by a microscope. In the sample from Goryeong-gun (gun=County), ova of Trichuris trichiura, Clonorchis sinensis, and Metagonimus spp. were detected, and eggs of T. trichiura and A. lumbricoides were found from the sample of Gwangmyeong-si (si=City). By adding this outcome to the existing data pool, we confirm our previous estimates of Joseon-period parasite infection rates. The overall rates of A. lumbricoides, T. trichiura, and C. sinensis decreased dramatically from Joseon to the modern period. In Goryeong mummy specimen, we also found Metagonimus spp. eggs that has rarely been detected in archaeological samples so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Seok Oh
- Department of Mortuary Science, College of Bio-Convergence, Eulji University, Seongnam 13135, Korea
| | - Hyejin Lee
- Ministry of National Defense Agency for KIA Recovery & Identification, Seoul 06984, Korea.,Institute of Forensic and Anthropological Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Jong Ha Hong
- Institute of Archaeology and Ancient History, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Soon Chul Cha
- Seorabeol Institute of Cultural Properties, Gyeongju 38160, Korea
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07649, Korea
| | - Cheol Min Ha
- Hangang Institute of Cultural Heritage, Bucheon 14502, Korea
| | - Ryang-Ji Kang
- Gaon Research Institute of Cultural Properties, Goryeong 40141, Korea
| | - Do-Seon Lim
- Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Health Science, Eulji University, Seongnam 13135, Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Shin
- Institute of Forensic and Anthropological Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Min Seo
- Department of Parasitology, Dankook University College of Medicine, Cheonan 31116, Korea
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Deslyper G, Murphy DM, Sowemimo OA, Holland CV, Doherty DG. Distinct hepatic myeloid and lymphoid cell repertoires are associated with susceptibility and resistance to Ascaris infection. Parasitology 2021; 148:539-549. [PMID: 33431071 PMCID: PMC10090783 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The soil-transmitted helminth Ascaris lumbricoides infects ~800 million people worldwide. Some people are heavily infected, harbouring many worms, whereas others are only lightly infected. The mechanisms behind this difference are unknown. We used a mouse model of hepatic resistance to Ascaris, with C57BL/6J mice as a model for heavy infection and CBA/Ca mice as a model for light infection. The mice were infected with the porcine ascarid, Ascaris suum or the human ascarid, A. lumbricoides and immune cells in their livers and spleens were enumerated using flow cytometry. Compared to uninfected C57BL/6J mice, uninfected CBA/Ca mice had higher splenic CD4+ and γδ T cell counts and lower hepatic eosinophil, Kupffer cell and B cell counts. Infection with A. suum led to expansions of eosinophils, Kupffer cells, monocytes and dendritic cells in the livers of both mouse strains and depletions of hepatic natural killer (NK) cells in CBA/Ca mice only. Infection with A. lumbricoides led to expansions of hepatic eosinophils, monocytes and dendritic cells and depletions of CD8+, αβ, NK and NK T cells in CBA/Ca mice, but not in C57BL/6J mice where only monocytes expanded. Thus, susceptibility and resistance to Ascaris infection are governed, in part, by the hepatic immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwendoline Deslyper
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dearbhla M. Murphy
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Celia V. Holland
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Derek G. Doherty
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Mohd-Shaharuddin N, Lim YAL, Ngui R, Nathan S. Expression of Ascaris lumbricoides putative virulence-associated genes when infecting a human host. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:176. [PMID: 33757548 PMCID: PMC7985925 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04680-y] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ascaris lumbricoides is the most common causative agent of soil-transmitted helminth infections worldwide, with an estimated 450 million people infected with this nematode globally. It is suggested that helminths are capable of evading and manipulating the host immune system through the release of a spectrum of worm proteins which underpins their long-term survival in the host. We hypothesise that the worm overexpresses these proteins when infecting adults compared to children to cirvumvent the more robust defence mechanisms of adults. However, little is known about the parasite's genes and encoded proteins involved during A. lumbricoides infection. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the expression profile of putative virulence-associated genes during an active infection of adults and children. METHODS In this study, quantitative PCR was performed to evaluate the expression profile of putative virulence-associated genes in A. lumbricoides isolated from infected children and adults. The study was initiated by collecting adult worms expelled from adults and children following anthelminthic treatment. High-quality RNA was successfully extracted from each of six adult worms expelled by three adults and three children, respectively. Eleven putative homologues of helminth virulence-associated genes reported in previous studies were selected, primers were designed and specific amplicons of A. lumbricoides genes were noted. The expression profiles of these putative virulence-associated genes in A. lumbricoides from infected adults were compared to those in A. lumbricoides from infected children. RESULTS The putative virulence-associated genes VENOM, CADHERIN and PEBP were significantly upregulated at 166-fold, 13-fold and fivefold, respectively, in adults compared to children. Conversely, the transcription of ABA-1 (fourfold), CATH-L (threefold) and INTEGRIN (twofold) was significantly suppressed in A. lumbricoides from infected adults. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of the expression profile of the putative virulence-associated genes, we propose that the encoded proteins have potential roles in evasion mechanisms, which could guide the development of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sheila Nathan
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Japa I, Ancha B, Custodio A, Ohrenschall R, Cordero R, Deverlis A, Chapman J, Hickson MR, Steenhoff AP, Lowenthal ED. Effectiveness of Deworming with Single-Dose Albendazole for Preschool-Aged Children in the Dominican Republic. Glob Pediatr Health 2021; 8:2333794X211002949. [PMID: 33796636 PMCID: PMC7983463 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x211002949] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The World Health Organization recommends biannual deworming with single-dose albendazole for all children over 1 year in regions where soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are endemic. There are limited data from the Dominican Republic (DR) on the effectiveness of deworming programs. Methods. Between January and June 2019, we enrolled 63 preschool-aged children at a community clinic in the DR. Participants received albendazole at enrollment. Stool samples were collected and examined for parasites at enrollment, 2 to 4 and 12 to 16 weeks post-albendazole. Caregivers were surveyed on home hygiene practices and children’s symptoms. Findings. At enrollment, 1 or more parasites were noted in 89% of samples. Ascaris lumbricoides (68%) was the most common species, followed by Entamoeba histolytica (35%) and Giardia intestinalis (8%). Two-to-four weeks post-albendazole, fewer than half of those with A. lumbricoides infections at baseline had cleared the infection. STH symptoms significantly improved between enrollment and 2 to 4 weeks. By 12 to 16 weeks after treatment, A. lumbricoides infections were as high as baseline. Interpretation. Although limited by size and available technology, our study contributes data on STH in the DR. Single-dose deworming with albendazole did not reduce Ascaris lumbricoides infections in our sample. As STH are the most common neglected tropical diseases and negatively impact children’s health globally, further studies on both effective deworming programs and interventions to prevent STH are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Japa
- Niños Primeros en Salud, Consuelo, Dominican Republic.,Universidad Central del Este, San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic
| | - Bhavya Ancha
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Antonio Custodio
- Universidad Central del Este, San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic
| | | | | | - Adriana Deverlis
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer Chapman
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Meredith R Hickson
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew P Steenhoff
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Abstract
Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum are helminth parasites of humans and pigs, respectively. The life cycle of Ascaris sets it apart from the other soil-transmitted helminths because of its hepato-tracheal migration. Larval migration contributes to underestimated morbidity in humans and pigs. This migration, coupled with a lack of a murine model in which the Ascaris parasite might complete its life cycle, has undoubtedly contributed to the neglected status of the ascarid. Our knowledge of the epidemiology of adult worm infections had led us to an enhanced understanding of patterns of infection such as aggregation and predisposition; however, the mechanisms underlying these complex phenomena remain elusive. Carefully controlled experiments in defined inbred strains of mice – with enhanced recovery of larvae in tandem with measurements of cellular, histopathological and molecular processes – have greatly enhanced our knowledge of the early phase of infection, a phase crucial to the success or failure of adult worm establishment. Furthermore, the recent development of a mouse model of susceptibility and resistance, with highly consistent and diverging Ascaris larval burdens in the murine lungs, represents the extremes of the host phenotype displayed in the aggregated distribution of worms and provides an opportunity to explore the mechanistic basis that confers predisposition to light and heavy Ascaris infection. Certainly, detailed knowledge of the cellular hepatic and pulmonary responses at the molecular level can be accrued from murine models of infection and, once available, may enhance our ability to develop immunomodulatory therapies to elicit resistance to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. V. Holland
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Carneiro VL, da Silva HBF, Queiroz GDA, Veiga RV, Oliveira PRS, Carneiro NVQ, Pires ADO, da Silva RR, Sena F, Belitardo E, Nascimento R, Silva M, Marques CR, Costa RDS, Alcantra-Neves NM, Barreto ML, Cooper PJ, Figueiredo CA. WSB1 and IL21R Genetic Variants Are Involved in Th2 Immune Responses to Ascaris lumbricoides. Front Immunol 2021; 12:622051. [PMID: 33692795 PMCID: PMC7937724 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.622051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic and epigenetic factors are considered to be critical for host-parasite interactions. There are limited data on the role of such factors during human infections with Ascaris lumbricoides. Here, we describe the potential role of genetic factors as determinants of the Th2 immune response to A. lumbricoides in Brazilian children. Stool samples were collected from the children to detect A. lumbricoides by microscopy and peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) were cultured in whole blood cultures for detection of cytokines (IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13) in vitro. Levels of anti-A. lumbricoides IgE and IgG4 were measured in plasma. DNA was extracted from PBLs and genotyped using Illumina 2.5 Human Omni Beadchip. Candidate genes associated with A. lumbricoides responses were identified and SNVs in these selected genes associated with the Th2 immune response to A. lumbricoides. Haplotype, gene expression, and epigenetic analyses were done to identify potential associations with Th2 immune responses. GWAS on samples from 1,189 children identified WSB1 as a candidate gene, and IL-21R was selected as a biologically relevant linked gene for further analysis. Variants in WSB1 and IL21R were associated with markers of Th2 immune responses: increased A. lumbricoides-specific IgE and IL-5/IL-13 by PBLs from infected compared to uninfected individuals. In infected children, WSB1 but not IL21R gene expression was suppressed and increased methylation was observed in the WSB1 promoter region. This is the first study to show an association between genetic variants in WSB1 and IL21R and Th2 immune responses during A. lumbricoides infections in children. WSB1/IL21R pathways could provide a potential target for the treatment of Th2-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Pablo Rafael Silveira Oliveira
- Center for Data and Knowledge Integration for Health, Fiocruz, Salvador, Brazil.,Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Flavia Sena
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Emilia Belitardo
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Regina Nascimento
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Milca Silva
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Mauricio L Barreto
- Center for Data and Knowledge Integration for Health, Fiocruz, Salvador, Brazil.,Institute of Collective Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Philip J Cooper
- School of Medicine, International University of Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador.,St. George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Bae KE, Chang YK, Kim TS, Hong SJ, Ahn HJ, Nam HW, Kim D. Cluster of Parasite Infections by the Spatial Scan Analysis in Korea. Korean J Parasitol 2021; 58:603-608. [PMID: 33412763 PMCID: PMC7806438 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.6.603] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed to find out the clusters with high parasite infection risk to discuss the geographical pattern. Clusters were detected using SatScan software, which is a statistical spatial scan program using Kulldorff’s scan statistic. Information on the parasitic infection cases in Korea 2011–2019 were collected from the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clusters of Ascaris lumbricoides infection were detected in Jeollabuk-do, and T. trichiura in Ulsan, Busan, and Gyeongsangnam-do. C. sinensis clusters were detected in Ulsan, Daegu, Busan, Gyeongsangnam-do, and Gyeongsangbuk-do. Clusters of intestinal trematodes were detected in Ulsan, Busan, and Gyeongsangnam-do. P. westermani cluster was found in Jeollabuk-do. E. vermicularis clusters were distributed in Gangwon-do, Jeju-do, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju. This clustering information can be referred for surveillance and control on the parasitic infection outbreak in the infection-prone areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoung-Eun Bae
- Department of Biomedicine Health Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Yoon Kyung Chang
- Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Tong-Soo Kim
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine and Inha Research Institute for Medical Sciences, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22333, Korea
| | - Sung-Jong Hong
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Hye-Jin Ahn
- Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Ho-Woo Nam
- Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Dongjae Kim
- Department of Biomedicine Health Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
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