Seroprevalencia y factores de riesgo de Toxoplasma gondii en Personas que Viven con VIH/SIDA (PVVS) en el departamento de Cochabamba, Bolivia

Objetivo: determinar la seroprevalencia y los factores de riesgo de infección crónica por T. gondii en personas que viven con VIH/SIDA (PVVS) en el departamento de Cochabamba. Metodología: estudio observacional-descriptivo de corte transversal. Se emplearon 325 muestras de plasma/suero proveniente de pacientes que asistieron a LABIMED entre Julio y agosto del año 2016. La recopilación de datos se realizó en un formulario sociodemográfico. Se emplearon ensayos serológicos cualitativos de Hemaglutinación Indirecta (HAI) e Inmunoflorecencia Indirecta (IFI), este último para confirmación de casos positivos. Adicionalmente se realizó el recuento de Linfocitos T CD4+ por citómetria de flujo para determinar el estado inmunológico de los pacientes que sirve de guía en el tratamiento clínico. Los datos fueron analizados con el programa/software SPSS versión 20. Resultados: la seroprevalencia global de infección crónica por T. gondii en la población de estudio fue del 40%. El consumo de carne poco cocida (OR: 2,85; 95%IC: 1,56-5,22) y la actividad de agricultura/jardinería (OR: 1,7; IC del 95%: 1,07-2,70) fueron factores de riesgo para adquirir la infección crónica por T. gondii. El 45.6% de las PVVS positivos para toxoplasmosis tiene un recuento de Linfocitos T CD4+ < a 200 células/mm3, equivalente a una inmunodeficiencia severa. Conclusión: El estudio muestra una seroprevalencia significativa de infección crónica por T. gondii, además de presentar una inmunodeficiencia severa en PVVS

Objective: To determine the seroprevalence and risk factors for chronic infection by T. gondii in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) in the department of Cochabamba. Methods: observational-descriptive cross-sectional study. 325 samples (n=325) of plasma/serum from patients who attended LABIMED between the months of July to August of the year 2016 were used. Data (age, gender and risk factors) were collected in the sociodemographic form. Qualitative serological tests of Indirect Hemaglutination (HAI) and Indirect Immunoflorescence (IFI) were used the latter for confirmation of positive cases. Additionally, the count of CD4+ T lymphocytes was performed by flow cytometry to determine the immunological status of the patients that serves as a guide in clinical treatment. The data were analyzed with the program/software SPSS version 20. Results: the global seroprevalence of chronic infection by T. gondii in the study population was 40%. Consumption of undercooked meat (AOR: 2.85; 95% CI: 1,56-5,22) and farming/gardening activity (AOR: 1,7; 95% CI: 1,07-2,70) were risk factors for chronic T. gondii infection. 45,6% of people living with the HIV/AIDS virus who are positive for toxoplasmosis have a CD4+ T lymphocyte count <200 cells/ml, equivalent to severe immunodeficiency. Conclusions: the study shows a significant seroprevalence of chronic infection by T. gondii, as well as presenting a high severe immunodeficiency in patients with the HIV/AIDS virus.

Investigation of Seroprevalence of Sars-Cov-2 IgG Antibodies Among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Centre in District Amritsar

Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection poses tremendous challenge to the healthcare system of nations across the globe.Healthcare workers (HCWs) are crucial to the ongoing response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. During the course of their work, they are exposed to hazards that place them at the risk of infection. Serological testing for SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers, which form a high risk group helps in identifying the burden of hidden infection in an institutional setting. The present study aims to investigate the seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among HCWs during 1stand 2ndwave.Material & Methods:A prospective study was conducted at Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, Government Medical College, Amritsar during JuneJuly2020 (1stwave)and April May 2021(2nd wave). During this period, 184 blood samples were collected from healthcare workers from Government Medical College and Hospital, Amritsar. Serum was separated and used for detection of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies by ELISA technique.Results:Out of the 184 samples, 79 (42.9 %) were found to be seropositive. Higher seropositivity was seen i.e 60.8 % during the 2ndwave (April-May 2021 ) as compared to 25% during 1st wave. The increase in seroprevalence was observed in almost all categories of HCWs, Doctors 44.4% vz 13.04%, nurses 54.8 % vz 34.7 %, lab technicians 72% vz 30.4 % and housekeeping staff 72.2 % vz 21.7%. Also the unvaccinated HCWs showed higher seroprevalence during the second wave and 87.5 % of vaccinated HCWs had demonstrable IgG antibodies.Conclusions:High seropositivity was observed among healthcare workers due to their nature of work. Rise of seropositivity among unvaccinated HCWs during 2ndwave concludes that increase in seroprevalence was attributable to natural infection.The vaccine’s immunological response was also highlighted in the study.

Detection of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 as a serologic marker of infection in patients with COVID-19 / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the diagnostic value of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2) specific antibodies IgM and IgG on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). 【Methods】 1) The test results of SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies and nucleic acid(NAT), which were tested by colloidal gold test and fluorescent quantitative PCR respectively, were collected from 145 febrile outpatients during early March, 2020, named Fever group, in which retrospective analysis and paired chi-square test were performed. 2) 612 cases of SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies test results, which were done on March 5, 2020, were collected. They were named COVID-19 group (Our hospital was provisionally assigned as a specialized hospital for COVID-19, and 1500 COVID-19 patients admitted to our hospital from February 12, 2020 to March 18, 2020). The SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies and NAT were respectively tested on the 30th and the 60th day after the date of discharge. The clinical application values of the antibodies was clarified by statistical analysis. 【Results】 1) In the fever group, the positive rate of SARS-CoV-2 IgM, IgG and IgM+ IgG antibodies were 26.21% (38/145), 54.48% (79/145) and 26.21% (38/145), respectively(P<0.01), and the positive rate of NAT was 4.14% (6/145), which was lower than that of antibody (P<0.01). One (1/145, 0.69%) positive NAT was implicated in initially negative IgM and IgG antibodies samples. 2) In the COVID-19 group, the positive rate of IgM antibody was low (5%) and IgG antibody was high (65%) during 2~14 days after infection, and stably increased during the 15~56 days [IgM 47.68%(277/581) vs IgG 94.15% (547/581) ], then both decreased after 57 days. The positive rates of IgM antibody and IgG antibody were 45.8% (280/612) and 93.1% (570/612) in 612 patients during hospitalization. 15 patients′ data after dischange were not collected as they were later transferred to Huoshenshan Hospital for treatment. The coronavirus NAT results of the rest 597 COVID-19 patients, tested on the 30th and 60th days after the date of discharge, were negative, and the positive rates of IgG antibody and IgM antibody were still ≥80% and ≥40% respectively at the second month after discharge. 【Conclusion】 IgM, IgG antibody against SARS-CoV-2 can be well detected by Colloidal gold method(Innovita), whose positive rate is higher than that of NAT. IgG antibody is produced earlier than IgM, and it keeps high positive rate and persists for a long time. The combination of colloidal gold antibody test and NAT can improve the diagnose rate of COVID-19 and the exclusion of suspected cases.

First Dental Visit of a Child - Perspectives of Parents / Guardians and Dentists / Paediatric Dentists in Saudi Arabia

The appropriate timing of first dental visit has an influence on child's oral health care and determines the effectiveness of preventive dental care rendered. The present study assesses the attitudes and practices of parents / guardians as well as dentists / paediatric dentists towards the first dental visit of children and evaluate as to whether there is any difference in their perception. METHODS151 parents, 101 general dentists, and 53 paediatric dentists, were selected randomly from government and private institutions or hospitals across Saudi Arabia. Two separate close-ended, multiple-choice questionnaires were directed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of parents / guardians as well as general / paediatric dentists towards their child’s first dental visit. Chi square test was used to find the association of variables. RESULTSMost parents preferred to take their children for first dental visit between 3 to 6 years, for the reason of pain (31.8 %) or prevention of caries (31.8 %). 98 % of parents were happy with their child’s first dental visit and 84.8 % would surely go for follow - up visits for treatment. 86.8 % of paediatric dentists recommended first dental visit within 6 years of age when compared to 52.4 % of general dentists [p = 0.001]. Paediatric dentists were more frequently recording general health / growth, performing extra - oral & intra - oral examinations and evaluating developing-dentition, when compared to general dentists [p = 0.001]. CONCLUSIONSThere is an urgent need for the general dental practitioners as well as paediatric dentists to educate and motivate the parents regarding the first dental visit and its objectives.

Algunas variables epidemiológicas relacionadas con la toxoplasmosis en mujeres en edad fértil en Riobamba / Some epidemiological variables associated to toxoplasmosis in women of childbearing age from Riobamba

Introducción: la toxoplasmosis adquirida durante por la mujer en edad fértil es un problema aun sin comprender por la comunidad y decisores de los sistemas de salud. En Ecuador existen datos pocos consistentes de la circulación de esta parasitosis, por lo que, ampliar el conocimiento sobre las variables que favorecen su adquisición es de gran interés. Objetivo: determinar la seroprevalencia de la toxoplasmosis en mujeres jóvenes y su relación con variables epidemiológicas. Métodos: Se ensayaron 403 muestras de sueros de estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, se evaluó el comportamiento serológico de Toxoplasma gondii mediante la determinación de IgG anti Toxoplasma gondii utilizando un método inmunoenzimática, se determinó su relación con hábitos alimentarios, convivencia con animales y conocimiento del riesgo de ser seronegativas al momento de decidir de tener hijos. Resultados: El 26,8 por ciento (108/403) de la muestra resultó seropositivas al Toxoplasma gondii; la vía oral, la forma de adquirir la enfermedad más significativa, se demuestra la relación entre seroprevalencia y convivencia con animales de corral y mascotas. El 73,9 por ciento (298/403) de las encuestadas desconocen que las seronegativas durante el embarazo representan un riesgo potencial. Conclusiones: Se demuestra anticuerpos anti Toxoplasma gondii en sangre de las muestras estudiadas, lo que orienta a infecciones anteriores con Toxoplasma gondii y la influencia de variables estudiadas(AU)

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis acquired by women of childbearing age is a problem still not understood by the community and decision makers from health systems. Few consistent data are available in Ecuador about the circulation of this parasitic infection. Therefore, it is of great interest to broaden knowledge about the variables leading to its acquisition. Objective: Determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among young women and its relationship to epidemiological variables. Methods: A study was conducted of 403 serum samples from students attending the School of Health Sciences of the National University of Chimborazo. Serological behavior of Toxoplasma gondii was evaluated by determination of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG using an enzyme immunoassay. Identification was made of its relationship to eating habits, keeping animals at home, and knowledge about the risk of being seronegative when deciding to have children. Results: Of the total sample, 26.8 percent (108/403) were seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii. The oral route was the most significant mode of acquisition of the disease. A relationship was found between seroprevalence and keeping yard animals and pets. 73.9 percent (298/403) of the respondents were not aware that seronegative results during pregnancy constitute a potential risk. Conclusions: Anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies were found in blood of the samples studied, pointing to the existence of previous Toxoplasma gondii infections and the influence of the variables analyzed(AU)

Screening Of Pregnant Women For Presence Of Igg Antibodies For Rubella, Mumps, Measles And Varicella Viruses In Tertiary Care Hospital, Jaipur.

Background : The aim of this study were assess the susceptible pregnant women for vaccine preventable infection like rubella, mumps, measles and varicella viruses. Infection of mothers with these viruses during pregnancy can be serious. They can cause congenital infections, miscarriage, stillbirth and death of fetuses.Material and Method : This study is cross sectional. To determine the presence of IgG antibodies for rubella, mumps, measles and varicella viruses, blood samples were collected, stored at -700 c. Serum was separated for detection of IgG antibodies for these viruses by using enzyme linked immunosorbant assay.Results : Of 277 samples evaluated for IgG antibodies. Susceptibility Of pregnant women for rubella, mumps measles and varicella viruses were 7.6%, 17.6%,7.2% and 19.5% respectively. Susceptibility rates for rubella and mumps were higher in rural population as compares to urban while for varicella urban population was more susceptible, but it was not statistically signicant. No correlation could be observed in susceptibility to different to different viruses and their education status and age of patients, but youngest age group was most susceptible to varicella and oldest group to rubella. Primigravida were more susceptible to rubella and varicella while multigravida were more susceptible to mumps and measles.Conclusion : Majority of the pregnant women had protective levels of IgG antibody although susceptibility to rubella, mumps measles and varicella were low. Intensication of MMRV immunization of all females of child-bearing age is advocated.

Sero-prevalence of Rubella Antibodies in Pregnant Women with Bad Obstetric History Attending A Rural Tertiary Care Hospital in West Bengal, India

Background: Rubella infection in pregnant mothers is of great concern as it acts as a teratogen causing abortions, still births, intra-uterine foetal deaths and multiple birth defects. In India, rubella causes significant bad obstetric pregnancy outcome including congenital deformities due to lack of proper surveillance and immunization coverage with rubella vaccination. Aim: To determine Sero-prevalence of rubella IgM and IgG antibodies in Bad Obstetric History (BOH) pregnant women in Tertiary Rural Medical College in Eastern India. Materials and Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted from 1st January 2017 to 31st March 2017 on sera of 100 antenatal mothers with bad obstetric history aged between 20-40 years of age group with pregnancy of ≥18 wks. Rubella IgM and IgG antibodies were assessed by ELISA. Statistical Analysis: Percentage, proportions and ᵡ2 test were applied. Results: Eleven per cent (11%) sero-prevalence for IgM antibodies and 54% for IgG antibodies was observed with maximum sero-positivity among 20-25 years mothers. Repeated abortions were the commonest pregnancy outcome. Conclusion: All antenatal cases should be routinely screened for rubella, so that early diagnosis will help in proper management and foetal outcome and strong recommendation for universal coverage of MMR in early age group of children.

Prevalencia de anticuerpos anti toxoplasma gondii en donantes sangre de la región oriental de Cuba / Prevalence of anti-toxoplasma gondii antibodies among blood donors from Cuba's eastern region

Introducción: La toxoplasmosis es una zoonosis ampliamente distribuida, un tercio de la población mundial tiene anticuerpos contra Toxoplasma gondii. El hombre se infecta principalmente por vía oral, por la ingesta de alimentos o aguas contaminadas, a través de la placenta al feto, por vía hematógena, por trasplantes de órganos o transfusiones de sangre contaminada. La circulación de Toxoplasma gondii se ha demostrado en la parte occidental de Cuba. Objetivo: Determinar la seroprevalencia en la región oriental de Cuba en donantes de sangre. Métodos: Las muestras de suero de 3365 donantes de sangre se evaluaron con previo consentimiento informado. La técnica de inmunofluorescencia indirecta se utilizó para detectar anticuerpos contra este parásito. Resultados: La positividad al Toxoplasma gondii fue de un (38,4 por ciento) 1292 muestras positivas en los donantes estudiados, siendo la seropositividad del área rural mayor que en el área urbana, y no se observó relación entre seroprevalencia edad y sexo. Conclusiones: Se demuestra la exposición y la circulación del parásito en esta región. Se recomienda la certificación de donaciones de sangre para Toxoplasma gondii antes de su uso(AU)

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is a broadly distributed zoonosis. One third of the world population has anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies. The main sources of infection in humans are the oral route, i.e. the intake of contaminated food or water, mother-to-fetus transmission, the hematogenous route, organ transplantation and contaminated blood transfusions. Toxoplasma gondii has been shown to circulate in the western region of Cuba. Objective: The purpose of the study was to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among blood donors from Cuba's eastern region. Methods: Serum samples from 3 365 blood donors were evaluated prior informed consent. Indirect immunofluorescence technique was used to detect antibodies against the study parasite. Results: Positivity for Toxoplasma gondii was 38.4 percent, i.e. 1 292 positive samples among the study donors. Seropositivity was higher in the rural area than in the urban area, and no relationship was found between seroprevalence, age and sex. Conclusions: Exposure and circulation of the parasite were shown to occur in the study region. It is recommended that blood donations are certified for Toxoplasma gondii before use(AU)

Prevalencia de toxoplasmosis en estudiantes de la Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo en Ecuador / Prevalence of toxoplasmosis in students of the National University of Chimborazo in Ecuador

Introducción: La infección por Toxoplasma gondii durante la edad fértil de la mujer, es un problema de salud no bien entendido en la población, círculos médicos y decisores dentro de los sistemas de salud; al no considerar importante las formas de adquirirla y el riesgo que implica infectarse durante el embarazo. En Ecuador no existen datos consistentes de la circulación y endemicidad de esta parasitosis, siendo esta la situación problémica el motivo de este trabajo. Objetivo: Conocer la seroprevalencia de Toxoplasma gondii en mujeres jóvenes en edad fértil y su relación con el nivel de conocimiento sobre la enfermedad. Métodos: Se evaluó el comportamiento serológico de T. gondii en 105 muestras de sueros de alumnas de la Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo de la Carrera de Laboratorio Clínico e Histopatológico, mediante la determinación de IgG anti T. gondii utilizando la Técnica de Quimioluminiscencia. Resultados: 38 alumnas (36,0 por ciento) resultaron ser positivas para anticuerpos contra T. gondii, lo que indica el contacto con el parásito en algún momento de su vida. La falta de conocimiento sobre las principales vías de contagio puede ser la causa de la seropositividad demostrada, lo que representa un riesgo para las seronegativas durante el embarazo. Conclusiones: Se demuestra seroprevalencia de la infección por T. gondii en la población estudiada y la endemicidad del parásito(AU)

Introduction : Toxoplasma gondii is the infection that occurs during the fertile age of women and is a health problem not well understood by the people, doctors and leaders of the health systems of some countries; as it does not consider important the ways of acquiring it and the risk involved in becoming infected during pregnancy. In Ecuador there aren´t consistent data on the circulation and endemicity of this parasitosis, being this problematic situation the reason for this work. Objective : The purpose of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in young women of childbearing age and their relation with the level of knowledge about the disease. Methods: The serological behavior of T. gondii was evaluated in 105 samples of sera from the National University of Chimborazo of the Clinical and Histopathological Laboratory, by the determination of IgG anti T. gondii using the Chemiluminescence Technique. Results: Of the study population, 38 students (36.0 percent) were found to be positive for antibodies to T. gondii, indicating contact with the parasite at some point in their life. The demonstrated seropositivity may be due to the lack of knowledge about the main routes of infection, the risk of being seronegative during pregnancy and the high endemicity of the parasite. Conclusions : The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in the studied population were demonstrated(AU)

Evaluation of chemical-specific IgG antibodies in male workers from a urethane foam factory

BACKGROUND@#Plastic resins are complex chemicals that contain toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and/or trimellitic anhydride (TMA), which cause occupational allergies (OA), including respiratory allergies. Serum IgGs against TDI and TMA have been suggested as potential markers of the exposure status and as exploring cause of OA. Although TDI-specific IgG has been examined for suspected OA, TMA-specific IgG is not commonly evaluated in a urethane foam factory. This study therefore investigated both TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs in suspected OA patients and to evaluate the usefulness of the measurement of multiple chemical-specific IgG measurement for practical monitoring.@*METHODS@#Blood samples were collected from two male workers who developed respiratory allergies supposedly caused by occupational exposure to TDI and/or TMA for the presence of TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs. In addition, blood samples from 75 male workers from a urethane foam factory, along with 87 male control subjects, were collected in 2014 and tested for the same IgGs in 2014. The presence and levels of TDI- and TMA-specific serum IgGs were measured using dot blot assays.@*RESULTS@#We found that controls had mean concentrations of TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs of 0.98 and 2.10 μg/mL, respectively. In the two workers with respiratory allergies, the TDI-specific IgG concentrations were 15.6 and 9.51 μg/mL, and TMA-specific IgG concentrations were 4.56 and 14.4 μg/mL, which are clearly higher than those in controls. Mean concentrations of TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs in the factory workers were 1.89 and 2.41 μg/mL, respectively, and are significantly higher than those of the controls (P < 0.001 and P < 0.026 for TDI- and TMA-specific IgGs, respectively).@*CONCLUSION@#The workers suspected of OA showed an evidently high level of TDI- and TMA-specific IgG, and these levels in workers at the urethane foam factory were also significantly higher than those in controls. In conclusion, the measurement of TDI- and TMA-specific IgG among workers using plastic resins is helpful to monitor their exposure status.

PRESENCE OF BOTH DENGUE SPECIFIC NS1 ANTIGEN AND IMMUNOGLOBULIN M ANTIBODY IN CONFIRMED DENGUE PATIENTS IN KOLKATA

@#The object of this study was to identify patients with diagnosed dengue infection, who were positive for both dengue-specific NS1 antigen and IgM antibody.

Respuesta de anticuerpos IgG contra fracciones de Giardia duodenalis en individuos infectados / IgG antibody response against fractions of Giardia duodenalis in infected individuals

La Giardiasis es una infección causada por Giardia duodenalis, transmitida por el agua o alimentos contaminados con quistes del parásito, principalmente en escolares que habitan zonas rurales. Se conoce poco sobre la respuesta de anticuerpos específicos, la identificación de antígenos permitirá el diseño de pruebas para evaluar seroprevalencia. En este estudio fueron identificadas proteínas para la respuesta IgG anti-Giardia por inmunodetección. Fueron evaluados ochenta individuos entre 4-80 años, de ambos sexos, de comunidades rurales, fueron clasificados según la presencia o ausencia de quistes del parásito en las heces. Las proteínas fueron obtenidas a partir de un extracto soluble y fracciones por centrifugación diferencial de la cepa WB, analizadas por electroforesis en geles de poliacrilamida, transferidas a membranas de nitrocelulosa y probadas por Western Blot para la respuesta IgG anti-Giardia. Fue observada una prevalencia general entre 9 y 12% de parasitosis intestinales, con 22% de individuos positivos para Giardia duodenalis, 46% negativos en heces y 32% positivos para Giardia duodenalis y otras parasitosis. El perfil de proteínas reveló bandas entre 190-15kDa, donde fueron reconocidas para la respuesta específica de anticuerpos IgG, proteínas en la fracción 2 de 190, 176 y 51kDa, en la fracción 3 una proteína de 23kDa. La identificación de proteínas reactivas para la respuesta IgG en las fracciones 2 y 3 permitirá el diseño de pruebas serológicas más específica para discriminar seropositivos de seronegativos.

Giardiasis is an infection caused by Giardia duodenalis, transmitted by consuming water or food contaminated with Giardia cysts, mainly in children living in rural areas. Little is known about proteins associated to the specific antibody response, the identification of specific antigens is necessary for studies of seroprevalence. The aim of this study was to select antigenic proteins from soluble extract or fractions of the parasite for the design of specific diagnostic tests. Were evaluated eighty individuals between 4-80 years, from rural communities were classified according to the presence or absence of cysts in the stool. The soluble extract and the fractions were obtained from WB (ATCC) strain of Giardia sp by differential centrifugation, analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and transferred to nitrocellulose membranes and finally tested by Western Blots for the IgG antibody response. The general prevalence was between 9-12%, and 22% of them were positive for G. duodenalis, 46% of individuals were negative in feces; and 32% were positive for G. duodenalis and other parasites. The protein profile revealed several bands from 190-15kDa; in which were recognized mainly proteins of 190, 176 and 51kDa in the fraction 2, and a protein of 23kDa in the fraction 3. The infection by G. duodenalis represents a human public health, and the identification of reactive proteins for the IgG response in the fractions 2 and 3, would allow us the design of serological test more specific, in order to discriminate the seropositive individuals from those seronegative.

Valoración de exposición y endemicidad de Toxoplasma gondii en donantes de sangre en la provincia de Holguín, Cuba / Assessment of exposure and endemicity of Toxoplasma gondii among blood donors from the province of Holguín, Cuba

INTRODUCCIÓN: la toxoplasmosis es la enfermedad parasitaria más difundida en el mundo que afecta al hombre, descrita hace poco más de 100 años y producida por Toxoplasma gondii. Una de las formas que el hombre adquiere la enfermedad es a través de la placenta, de órganos trasplantados y por transfusiones de sangre; la forma infectante del parásito denominada "taquizoitos" es la responsable de este tipo de infección y ocurre durante la fase hematógena del mismo en un individuo seropositivo a T gondii. En Cuba al igual que en otras partes del mundo se ha demostrado la presencia de este parásito; en la provincia de Holguín su circulación se ha confirmado en receptores de trasplante renal. OBJETIVOS: conocer la seroprevalencia en donantes de sangre que motivó el interés para la realización de este trabajo. MÉTODOS: se evaluaron 892 muestras de sueros de donantes de los 14 municipios de la provincia de Holguín, el comportamiento serológico se determinó por la Técnica de Inmunofluorescencia Indirecta. RESULTADOS: la seropositividad para Inmunoglobulina G, anti Toxoplasma gondii de un 38,2 %, CONCLUSIONES: los donantes de la provincia de Holguín, están expuesto al Toxoplasma gondii, donde existe endemicidad del parásito en todo sus municipios y queda demostrado que los individuos procedentes de áreas rurales, tienen mayor incidencia de seropositivos al Toxoplasma gondii que los de áreas urbanas.

INTRODUCTION: Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii. First described a little over 100 years ago, it is the most widely distributed parasitic disease affecting humans. The disease may be acquired from the placenta, from transplanted organs or from blood transfusions. The infecting form of the parasite, known as "tachyzoite", is responsible for this type of infection, which occurs during the hematogenous stage in a T. gondii-seropositive individual. The presence of this parasite has been demonstrated both in Cuba and in other regions of the world. In the province of Holguín its circulation has been confirmed in renal transplant recipients. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among blood donors. METHODS: An evaluation was conducted of 892 serum samples from donors from the 14 municipalities in the province of Holguín. Serological behavior was determined by indirect immunofluorescence technique. RESULTS: Seropositivity for anti-Toxoplasma gondii Immunoglobulin G was found to be 38.2 %. CONCLUSIONS: Blood donors from the province of Holguín are exposed to Toxoplasma gondii. The parasite is endemic in all municipalities, and it has been shown that Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity is higher in rural areas than in urban areas.

Determinación de anticuerpos IgG contra toxoplasma gondii en neonatos de la sala de neonatología del Hospital General Universitario "Vladimir Ilich Lenin", Holguín / Determination of anti-toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies among neonates from the neonatology ward at Vladimir Ilich Lenin General University Hospital in Holguín

INTRODUCCIÓN: la infección por Toxoplasma gondii en niños puede ser congénita o adquirida. La infección del feto se produce cuando la madre tiene el primer contacto con el parásito durante la gestación, por lo que debe considerarse como una fuente potencial de infección al feto durante este período. OBJETIVOS: demostrar la presencia de anticuerpos IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii en neonatos. MÉTODOS: se analizaron 30 muestras de sueros de niños recién nacidos asistidos en el Servicio de Neonatología del Hospital General Universitario "Vladimir Ilich Lenin". El comportamiento serológico de esta infección se determinó por la presencia de anticuerpos IgGh anti- Toxoplasma gondii a través de la técnica de inmunofluorescencia indirecta. Resultados: 23,3 % de las muestras resultaron positivas, corroborando la circulación del parásito y su contacto con este grupo de riesgo. CONCLUSIONES: se sugiere la necesidad del cumplimiento del programa establecido en Cuba para esta zoonosis en este grupo poblacional.

INTRODUCTION: Toxoplasma gondii infection in children may be either congenital or acquired. Fetal infection occurs when the mother has her first contact with the parasite during pregnancy. Therefore, this event should be viewed as a potential source of infection for the fetus during this period. OBJECTIVES: determine the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies in neonates. METHODS: Thirty serum samples were analyzed from newborns cared for at the Neonatology Service of Vladimir Ilich Lenin General University Hospital. Serologic behavior of the infection was determined by the presence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgGh antibodies, using the indirect immunofluorescence technique. RESULTS: 23.3% of the samples were positive, confirming the circulation of the parasite and its contact with this risk group. CONCLUSIONS: it is suggested that the Cuban program for this zoonosis in the population group under study be complied with.

Detection of human parvovirus B19 in cancer patients using ELISA and real-time PCR.

Purpose: Parvovirus B19 (B19) is associated with a wide range of diseases in humans, whose severity depends on the immunological and haematological status of the host. Objective: To determine the incidence of B19 DNA and specific IgM and IgG frequency among patients suffering from different haematological malignancies and to determine the viral load using real-time PCR. Materials and Methods: A total of 70 patients were included in the study, in addition to a control group consisting of 20 apparently healthy volunteers. B19 DNA quantitative analysis was performed using real-time PCR while screening for IgM and IgG anti-B19 antibodies was performed using ELISA. Results: B19 DNA was detected in 26 patients (36.14%) and 3 controls (15%) using real-time PCR. Anti-parvovirus B19 IgM antibodies were detected in 9 patients (12.6%) and 2 controls (10%). Anti-parvovirus B19 IgG antibodies were detected in 32 patients (45.71%) and 5 controls (25%). The difference between the patient and control groups was found to be statistically non-significant in all of the three tests (P < 0.05). The difference in B19 incidence among patients receiving multiple transfusions and non-transfused patients was also found to be statistically non-significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: We found a high incidence of B19 infection among patients diagnosed with different types of haematological malignancies. We recommend that all cases of haematological disorders should be examined for specific antibodies and tested for the presence of B19 DNA in serum by PCR technique.

Seroprevalence of chlamydial infection in patients attending STD.

Background: Chlamydial disease has the major scourges of humans. In women severe, sometimes irreversible complications usually present as the first symptom of genital infection. Though contemporary diagnostic methods are reliable for identifying infections there are economic and acceptance issues surrounding certain intervention strategies involving frequent community wide screening for early detection and for mass treatment. So we aimed at the Chlamydial infections in the community. Method: The study population was 150 cases out of which 100 cases were symptomatic patients who are attending STD clinic and 50 were control group. We selected ELISA test by the patella Chlamydia IgG ELISA kit supplied by BIO-RAD agencies, Hyderabad for detecting Chlamydia IgG antibodies after the Ethical Committee approval. Results: The test results were tabulated. Out of 100 test sera collected for chlamydial infections with variety of clinical symptoms, 12 patients have shown seropositivity, 20.83% belongs to the age group of 21-25 years, 17.64 % of them are belongs to rural group,14.18% are females and 16.66% of patients suffers with syphilis. Conclusion: Present study concludes that 12 cases were positive for chlamydial infection. Majority of the patients belong to the age group of 21-25 years and least incidence was seen among the age group less than 20 years and females were affected more than males. Distribution of chlamydial infection was more in rural area than urban and was found to be syphilis than other STD cases.

Seroprevalencia de Toxoplasma gondii en donantes de sangre en la provincia de Guantánamo / Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in blood donors from the province of Guantánamo

Los riesgos de contaminación con Toxoplasma gondii a través de las transfusiones, están incrementados por la incidencia de este parásito en donantes y la tolerancia de este a los procesos de preparación y almacenamiento de la sangre, por lo que resulta peligroso para los grupos de riesgo. Esta enfermedad no es de declaración obligatoria en Cuba. El interés de conocer el comportamiento epidemiológico de esta parasitosis nos condujo a estudiar 562 muestras de donantes de sangre de la provincia de Guantánamo, donde resultaron positivos para IgG anti T. gondii el 47,0 porciento, con más del 62 porciento de positividad en los municipios de Baracoa y Maisí, con mayor prevalencia en áreas rurales. Los valores de seropositividad observados en los grupos etários estudiados y la relación entre sexo no fue significativa, aunque el contacto con el parásito en el grupo de edad entre 18 y 40 años fue superior. Estos datos seroepidemiológicos alertan sobre la necesidad de proponer acciones de control en el uso de hemoderivados en los grupos de riesgo

The risk of contamination with Toxoplasma gondii via blood transfusion is increased by the incidence of this parasite in donors and its tolerance to blood processing and storage processes, which turns it into a hazard for risk groups. This disease is not notifiable in Cuba. The interest in learning about the epidemiological behavior of this parasitosis led us to study 562 blood donor samples from the province of Guantánamo, 47.0 percent of which tested positive for anti-T. gondii IgG, with over 62 percent positivity in the municipalities of Baracoa and Maisí, and higher prevalence in rural areas. Neither the seropositivity values found in the age groups studied nor their sex distribution were significant, though contact with the parasite was higher in the 18-40 age group. These seroepidemiological data point to the need to propose control actions for the use of blood products in risk groups

Serological evidence of hantavirus infection in rural and urban regions in the state of Amazonas, Brazil

Hantavirus disease is caused by the hantavirus, which is an RNA virus belonging to the family Bunyaviridae. Hantavirus disease is an anthropozoonotic infection transmitted through the inhalation of aerosols from the excreta of hantavirus-infected rodents. In the county of Itacoatiara in the state of Amazonas (AM), Brazil, the first human cases of hantavirus pulmonary and cardiovascular syndrome were described in July 2004. These first cases were followed by two fatal cases, one in the municipality of Maués in 2005 and another in Itacoatiara in 2007. In this study, we investigated the antibody levels to hantavirus in a population of 1,731 individuals from four different counties of AM. Sera were tested by IgG/IgM- enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay using a recombinant nucleocapsid protein of the Araraquara hantavirus as an antigen. Ten sera were IgG positive to hantavirus (0.6 percent). Among the positive sera, 0.8 percent (1/122), 0.4 percent (1/256), 0.2 percent (1/556) and 0.9 percent (7/797) were from Atalaia do Norte, Careiro Castanho, Itacoatiara and Lábrea, respectively. None of the sera in this survey were IgM-positive. Because these counties are distributed in different areas of AM, we can assume that infected individuals are found throughout the entire state, which suggests that hantavirus disease could be a local emerging health problem.

Seroprevalencia del virus de la hepatitis A en niños de 1 a 15 años en un hospital universitario / Seroprevalence of the hepatitis A virus in children from 1 to 15 years old in a university hospital

Introducción. La hepatitis A es una enfermedad infectocontagiosa causada por un virus ARN no encapsulado de la familia Picornaviridae y del género Hepatovirus, que se trasmite por vía fecal-oral, bien sea de persona a persona o en epidemias originadas por una fuente común. Objetivo. Se estimo la seroprevalencia de anticuerpos de tipo IgG contra el virus de la hepatitis A en niños de 1 a 15 años, atendidos en un hospital universitario, como parte de un estudio cooperativo nacional. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y prospectivo, entre junio y noviembre de 2007. Los niveles de anticuerpos se detectaron mediante un inmunoensayo enzimático de micropartículas. A cada participante del estudio se le hizo una encuesta de riesgo con las variables objeto del estudio. Resultados. Se estudiaron 422 niños. La prevalencia global de anticuerpos contra el virus de la hepatitis A fue de 29,1%: 37,1% en el grupo de 5 a 9 años, 36,1%, en el de 10 a 15 y 13,8%, en el de 1 a 4 años. La mayor proporción de prevalencia de anticuerpos se encontró en los niños de estrato socioeconómico más bajo: 44,2% para el estrato 1 y 27,9% para el estrato 2. Discusión. En este estudio se encontró una seroprevalencia de anticuerpos para hepatitis A más baja en menores de 5 años, lo que puede indicar una transición del patrón epidemiológico hacia un nivel intermedio. La prevalencia fue mayor en los niños de estratos socioeconómicos bajos, lo que puede estar en relación con el hacinamiento y las malas prácticas de higiene.

Introduction: Hepatitis A is an infectious disease caused by a non-encapsulated RNA virus of the Picornaviridae family, classified as Hepatovirus. It is transmitted by a fecal-oral route, either from person to person or in common source epidemics. Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against the hepatitis A virus in children aged 1-15 years, treated in a university hospital as part of a national collaborative study. Methods: A descriptive study was performed between June and November 2007. The antibody titers were detected by means of a Microparticle Capture Enzyme Immunoassay. A survey to identify risk factors was conducted for each participant, with additional variables under study. Results: We studied 422 children. The overall prevalence of antibodies against hepatitis A was 29.1%, with 37.1% in the group of 5 to 9 years of age, 36.1% for 10 to 15, and 13.8% for 1 to 4. The highest proportion of antibody prevalence was found in children of the lowest socioeconomic status, 44.2% for the stratum 1 and 27.9% for the stratum 2. Conclusion: The seroprevalence to hepatitis A virus was lower in children with less than five years of age, which is an indication of a transition of the epidemiological profile to an intermediate one. The prevalence was higher in children of low socioeconomic levels, which may be related to overcrowding and poor hygiene practices.

Diagnosis and follow-up of genital chlamydial infection by direct methods and by detection of serum IgG, IgA and secretory IgA.

Purpose: To determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection in a high-risk population by direct and indirect methods and to evaluate the diagnosis of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA). Patients and Methods: Urethral or endocervical specimens from 78 patients (48 females and 30 males) were examined by cell culture, direct fluorescence assay, PCR Cobas Amplicor (Roche Molecular Diagnostics), and sIgA was detected by the recombinant lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-enzyme-linked immunoassay (rELISA). Serum from each patient was also obtained and analysed for the presence of IgG and IgA antibody by in-house microimmunofluorescence (MIF) and by the rELISA method (Medac, Hamburg, Germany). Results: The overall C. trachomatis prevalence determined by direct methods was 28%. The detection of sIgA antibodies was significantly higher in the group of patients with a positive direct detection (50%) than in the group of negative direct detection (10.7%). The Chlamydia-specific IgA antibodies were detected by the rELISA in 40.9 and 53.6% of group I (positive direct detection) and group II patients (negative direct detection), respectively. The species-specific IgA antibodies were detected by the MIF method in 18.2 and 16.1% of group I and II patients, respectively. Chlamydia genus-specific IgG antibodies were detected by the rELISA in 86.4 and 83.9% of group I and group II patients and, C. trachomatis specific IgG were present in 81.8 and 73.2% of group I and group II patients, respectively, as assessed by the MIF test. Conclusion: Combining the positive direct methods and/or positive sIgA antibody results from cervical or urethral specimens had an indication of current C. trachomatis infection.