ABSTRACT
Cryptococcus spp. is a pathogenic fungus which is an increasingly important cause of infection, particularly in the immunocompromised hosts. Diagnosis of cryptococcosis in animals can be carried out by isolation of the fungus but this requires several days to detect and identify the organism. Detection of cryptococcal antigen by latex agglutination test and enzyme immunoassay in serum is a rapid and easy method for diagnosis of cryptococcosis. In the present study, a total of 142 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy (n=89) and diseased dogs (n=53) for diagnosis of cryptococcosis. Latex agglutination test and enzyme immunosorbent assay (EIA) were carried out for the detection of cryptococcal antigen in serum. Of the 142 serum samples tested, six samples tested positive by Latex agglutination test while one sample tested positive by EIA. The sample which was positive by EIA was also positive by Latex agglutination test. The serum samples of dogs that tested positive for cryptococcal antigen were obtained from dogs suffering from symptoms like bloody faeces and vomit, emesis, chronic ear infection and discharge. Based on our findings, we conclude that the latex agglutination test in combination with the enzyme immunoassay can be used for the diagnosis of Cryptococcosis in dogs
ABSTRACT
This survey was undertaken to estimate tetanus immunization coverage of adolescent girls in a selected rural community of Haryana and to ascertain the knowledge of these girls and their mothers about tetanus. The study period was between April 1996-March 1997. A 30-cluster immunization coverage house to house survey was carried out by a female social worker. The total population covered was 30,448. Twelve roadside villages were selectively chosen. Eleven year and 17 year old girls (210 in each group) were surveyed for coverage evaluation. For K.A.P. survey 114 girls (aged 17 years) and 98 mothers (of 11 year old girls) were interviewed. Chi square, percentage and 95% confidence interval were used for statistical analysis. Coverage for tetanus immunization was 44.3% among 17 year old girls and 26.7% among 11 year old girls. The coverage was better (35%) among school going girls as compared to non-school going girls (13%). Correct immunization schedule of pregnant women was told by 16 (7.5%) respondents. None of them told the correct immunization schedule for children. Death was told as the main danger from tetanus by 172 (81%) respondents. Most (98%) were aware of the role of clean-stump (umbilical cord) at the time of delivery in the etiology of tetanus neonatorum. Tetanus immunization coverage needs to be improved among adolescents. They also need to be educated on various aspects of tetanus.
Subject(s)
Adolescent , Child , Female , Humans , Immunization Schedule , India , Mothers , Surveys and Questionnaires , Rural Population , Tetanus ToxoidABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To study the lower G.I. endoscopic and histopathological findings in children with chronic diarrhoea. DESIGN: Prospective analysis. SETTING: Hospital based. SUBJECT: 83 children with age up to 14 years admitted in Umaid Hospital, Jodhpur including 33 subjects with chronic diarrhoea and 50 normal children in control group. METHODS: All 83 children including study (33) and control group (50) underwent lower G.I. Endoscopy using FUJINON-SIG-ET sigmoidoscope in older children and PENTAX FG-23H gastroscope in younger children after proper preparation. Rectal biopsies were taken in all the subjects except one and was sent for histopathological examination. RESULTS: Majority (90.8%) were in 0-5 year age group with median age of 3.8 years. We could finally reach to definitive diagnosis in 13% patients with chronic diarrhoea. Over all, colitis was the most common cause. CONCLUSION: Both, endoscopy and biopsy are needed to reach final diagnosis.