Inter-relationship between ascariasis and nutritional status

Both ascariasis and malnutrition are prevalent in tropical countries and the two diseases are frequently associated in childrenFollowing experiments on animals and observation on man, it is accepted that ascariasis affects the hosts nutrition in several ways. In particular, it has been suggested that when protein in the diet is inadequate the incomplete digestion and absorption of protein may be one important factor in the etiology of protein deficiency in young childrenSeveral mechanisms of action of ascaris have been studied, the most important being the present of anti-enzyme produced by the worm, "intestinal hurry" and the mucosal irritation. The effects of heavy worm burdens on the nutritional status and growth of the host have been stressed. On the other hand, the role of the diet has been recognized as an important factor in the development of ascariasis. In particular, a low protein diet favours the establishment of an ascaris population. The mechanism suggested is a diminution of the hosts resistance to the helminthsIn conclusion, although further scientific investigation on man is required, it is felt that infection with ascaris especially with high worm burdens in malnourished children is a real additional hazard during the period of growth and physiological stress. Considering the synergism between nutrition and ascariasis, both prevention of malnutrition and deworming treatment are to be taken into account and require serious consideration in public health programmes designed for tropical and developing countries.(Conclusions)

The effect of conjugated estrogens and estriol succinate on fibrinolysis: a clinical correlation in patients with uterine bleeding

The inhibitory effect of conjugated estrogens and estriol succinate on fibrinolysis was demonstrated in normal subjects and in patients with uterine bleeding by a delay in onset and or completion of clot lysis using a modification of the fibrinolysin test of Stefanini and Damashek. Clot lysis was accelerated in normal subjects by intravenous adrenalin at a dose of 0.1 mcg per kilogram body weight. Control of uterine bleeding was correlated with the experimental data. (Summary)