Prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en muestras de pacientes atendidos en el Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan", Argentina, 2018-2019 / Prevalence of intestinal parasites in samples of patients attending the Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan", Argentina, 2018-2019 / Prevalência de parasitas intestinais em amostras de pacientes atendidos no Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan", Argentina, 2018-2019

Resumen Se evaluaron retrospectivamente los resultados obtenidos de estudios parasitológicos en muestras de heces y escobillados anales remitidos al Laboratorio de Parasitología y Gastroenterología del Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan" de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina. El objetivo del trabajo fue conocer la prevalencia de los parásitos intestinales observados en las muestras remitidas a este hospital y su distribución en rangos etarios. En el período comprendido entre mayo de 2018 y abril de 2019 se analizó un total de 4713 muestras pertenecientes a 3311 pacientes, que arrojó un resultado total de 29% de positivos (1371/4713). De los exámenes coproparasitológicos el 30% fueron positivos (1193/4025) y se hallaron huevos de Enterobius vermicularis en el 26% (178/688) de los escobillados anales. En las muestras seriadas de heces se obtuvo un 37% de positividad mientras que en muestras únicas un 21%. En la totalidad de muestras fecales, los enteroparásitos más prevalentes fueron Blastocystis spp. en un 14% (579/4025), Giardia duodenalis 11% (456/4025) y Dientamoeba fragilis 7% (291/4025). Los resultados demostraron diferencias significativas con mayor prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en pacientes en edad escolar comprendidos entre los 6 y 10 años, en relación a los de edad preescolar. En las muestras fecales analizadas se evidenció un predominio de parasitismo de protozoos sobre helmintos, por lo que se debería considerar reforzar el diagnóstico de laboratorio de esas especies mediante técnicas, como coloraciones, que posibiliten su hallazgo y confirmación.

Abstract The results obtained of the coproparasitological studies and anal swab submitted to the laboratory of the Parasitology Section of the Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan" of the Buenos Aires City, Argentina, were retrospectively evaluated The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites found on the submitted samples and to evaluate their frequency according to the age of the patients. Within the period between May 2018 and April 2019, a total of 4713 samples corresponding to 3311 patients were analyzed and intestinal parasites were present in 29% (1371/4713). In 30% of coproparasitological studies parasite estructures were found (1193/4025) and 26% of anal swab samples were positive for the presence of Enterobius vermicularis eggs (178/688). In serial fecal samples, 37% positive results were obtained, while in single samples, 21%. The most prevalent enteroparasites calculated from the total fecal samples were: Blastocystis spp. with 14% (579/4025), followed by Giardia duodenalis 11% (456/4025) and Dientamoeba fragilis 7% (291/4025). The incidence of intestinal parasites was higher in the group of patients between 6 and 10 years, and the existence of significant differences between proportions of parasitized patients in preschool and school infants, was observed. In the faecal samples analyzed, a greater prevalence of parasitism caused by protozoa than by helminths was evidenced, for which reason it should be considered, reinforcing the laboratory diagnosis using techniques such as stains that allow its finding and confirmation.

Resumo Os resultados obtidos de estudos parasitológicos em amostras fecais e esfregaços anais enviados ao Laboratório de Parasitologia e Gastroenterologia do Hospital de Pediatría "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan" da Cidade de Buenos Aires, Argentina, foram avaliados retrospectivamente. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a prevalência dos parasitas intestinais observados nas amostras enviadas a este hospital e sua distribuição por faixas etárias. Durante o período compreendido entre maio de 2018 a abril de 2019 foram analisadas 4713 amostras, correspondentes a 3311 pacientes, o que deu um resultado total de 29% de positivos (1371/4713). 30% dos exames coproparasitológicos foram positivos (1193/4025) e foram encontrados ovos de Enterobius vermicularis em 26% (178/688) dos esfregaços anais. Nas amostras seriadas fecais foram obtidos 37% de resultados positivos, enquanto que em amostras únicas, 21%. Os enteroparasitas mais prevalentes na totalidade das amostras fecais foram Blastocystis spp. em 14% (579/4025), Giardia duodenalis 11% (456/4025) e Dientamoeba fragilis 7% (291/4025). Os resultados demonstraram diferenças significativas com maior prevalência de parasitas intestinais em pacientes em idade escolar da faixa etária entre 6 e 10 anos, em relação aos da pré-escola. Nas amostras fecais analisadas, evidenciou-se um predomínio de parasitismo por protozoários por sobre helmintos, pelo qual deve ser considerado o reforço do diagnóstico laboratorial dessas espécies por meio de técnicas, como colorações que permitam a sua localização e confirmação.

Alta prevalência de Balantidium coli em crianças de uma Escola Municipal de Moreira Sales - Pr / High prevalence of balantidium coli in children of a Municipal School in Moreira Sales - Pr

As doenças causadas por parasitos intestinais estão entre os mais frequentes agravos do mundo, pois é um problema de saúde pública que atinge a maioria da população. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a prevalência de parasitos em crianças de 4 a 6 anos de uma escola municipal de Moreira Sales, PR. A pesquisa foi composta por inquérito parasitológico e epidemiológico em crianças matriculadas em uma escola municipal em julho de 2017. O critério para inclusão no estudo foi: coletar a amostra de fezes, responder o questionário socioepidemiológico e ter o Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido (TCLE) assinado pelos pais e/ou responsáveis. Participaram do estudo 42 crianças com idades entre 4 e 6 anos, das quais 66,7% eram meninas. Dos participantes, dez crianças (23,8%) apresentaram infecção por Balantidium coli, sendo que destas, duas apresentaram infecção mista por Entamoeba coli. Foi observado que a maioria dos infectados possuíam animais de estimação (60%), roíam unhas (60%), consumiam hortaliças (80%) e todas as crianças brincavam na terra, sendo esses alguns fatores de risco para a infecção. Diante dos resultados apresentados, é possível perceber que existem vários fatores que podem estar associados à infecção por Balantidium coli, sendo os principais: falta de saneamento básico e os hábitos de higiene inadequado. Portanto, fatores importantes para se promover a conscientização e ação profilática da população, com o intuito de minimizar as parasitoses, principalmente nas crianças.

Diseases caused by intestinal parasites are among the most frequent ones in the world, since it is a public health issue affecting most of the population. The purpose of this study was to verify the prevalence of parasites in children aged 4 to 6 years at a school in the municipality of Moreira Sales, in the state of Paraná, Brazil. The study was comprised by the parasitological and epidemiological investigation in children enrolled in a school in the city in July 2017. The criteria for inclusion in the study was to collect the stool sample, answer the socio-epidemiological questionnaire and sign a Free and Clarified Consent Form. A total of 42 children took part in this study, with ages ranging between 4 and 6 years, of which 66.7% were female. From the participants, ten children (23.8%) presented infection by Balantidium coli, and among which, two of them presented mixed infection by Entamoeba coli. It was observed that most of the infected children had pets (60%), bit their nails (60%), consumed vegetables (80%) and all children played on dirt, which are some of the risk factors for infection. Considering the results, it is possible to observe that there are several factors that can be associated to infection by Balantidium coli, among which: basic sanitation and hygiene habits. Therefore, raising awareness and presenting prophylactic action to the population is essential in order to minimize intestinal parasitosis, especially in children.

Hepatozoon sp. gamonts as an accidental finding in synovial liquid from an injured maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) in southeastern Brazil / Gamontes de Hepatozoon sp. como achado acidental em líquido sinovial de lobo guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus) no sudeste do Brasil

Abstract A free-living, adult male maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) was referred to the Governador "Laudo Natel" - FCAV/Unesp veterinary hospital after being found with skin lesions and a fracture on the right pelvic limb, which had to be amputated due to compromised integrity. Around 20 days later, bilateral accentuated swollen on humerus-radius-ulna articulation was observed. The synovial liquid was drained and sent to the laboratory for synovial cytology with Rosenfeld staining that revealed predominantly degenerated neutrophils with karyolytic chromatin associated with intracellular inclusions suggestive of Hepatozoon sp. gametocytes. Blood and synovial liquid samples were submitted to molecular analysis, aiming to amplify the Hepatozoon spp. 18S rRNA gene fragment. Despite the positioning of the found Hepatozoon sequence together with Hepatozoon canis previously detected in domestic carnivores, the BLAST analysis showed only 98% identity with H. canis. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first time a Hepatozoon was detected in the synovial liquid by clinical pathology and molecular analyses.

Resumo Um lobo guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus) adulto, macho, de vida livre foi encaminhado para atendimento no hospital veterinário Governador "Laudo Natel" - FCAV/Unesp após ser encontrado com lesões de pele e fratura em membro pélvico direito, sendo amputado devido a comprometimento da integridade do membro. Aproximadamente 20 dias após a chegada ao hospital, foi notado acentuado aumento de volume bilateral em região de articulação úmero-rádio-ulnar. O líquido sinovial foi drenado e enviado para análise citológica com coloração de Rosenfeld, revelando a presença de neutrófilos degenerados com cromatina cariolítica associados a inclusões intracelulares sugestivas de gametócitos de Hepatozoon sp. Amostras de sangue e líquido sinovial foram submetidas a análises moleculares visando amplificar um fragmento do gene 18S rRNA de Hepatozoon spp. Apesar da sequência de Hepatozoon detectada se posicionar filogeneticamente no mesmo clado que H. canis previamente detectado em carnívoros domésticos, o resultado da análise do BLAST mostrou somente 98% de identidade com H. canis. De acordo com o conhecimento dos autores, esta é a primeira vez que Hepatozoon foi detectado no líquido sinovial por meio de patologia clínica e análises moleculares.

Use of Mini-FLOTAC and Fill-FLOTAC for rapidly diagnosing parasitic infections in zoo mammals / Utilização do Mini-FLOTAC e Fill-FLOTAC no diagnóstico rápido de infecções parasitárias de mamíferos em zoológicos

Abstract Animals reared in restricted environments are highly susceptible to gastrointestinal infection by helminths and protozoa and therefore zoos are characterized as being parasite-rich environments. Successful implementation of control programs of these parasites in zoo environment depends upon precise and rapid diagnosing of gastrointestinal infections. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the role of the Mini-FLOTAC technique in combination with Fill-FLOTAC for rapidly diagnosing parasitic infections in zoo mammals. Fecal samples were collected from 70 animals in four different zoos located in central and southern Italy. All the samples were analyzed using Mini-FLOTAC in combination with Fill-FLOTAC. Out of the 70 pooled samples examined, 80% (24/30) were positive for at least one parasite. Among the gastrointestinal nematodes, Strongyles were the most frequent (40%), followed by Trichuris spp. (23.3%), Parascaris spp. (13.3%) and Capillaria spp. (3.3%). Among the protozoa, Blastocystis spp., Giardia spp. and Eimeria spp. were detected in 6.6%, 3.3% and 3.3%, respectively. These results show that Mini-FLOTAC in combination with Fill-FLOTAC can be used, not only for rapidly diagnosing parasitic infections in zoo mammals, but also for monitoring control programs in which large numbers of fecal samples need to be examined rapidly and reliably.

Resumo Animais criados em ambiente restritos são altamente suscetíveis a infecção gastrointestinal por helmintos e protozoários, constituindo os zoológicos em ambientes com alta contaminação por parasitos. O sucesso da implementação de programas de controle contra estes parasitos em zoológicos depende do rápido diagnóstico das infecções por parasitas gastrointestinais. O objetivo deste estudo foi demonstrar o papel da técnica do Mini-FLOTAC em combinação com o Fill-FLOTAC no diagnóstico rápido das infecções parasitárias em mamíferos em zoológicos. Amostras de fezes foram coletadas de 70 animais de quatro diferentes zoológicos no centro e sudoeste da Itália. Todas as amostras foram analisadas pela técnica do Mini-FLOTAC em combinação com o Fill-FLOTAC. Do total de 70 pools de fezes examinadas, 80% (24/30) foram positivas para pelo menos um parasito. Entre os nematoides gastrointestinais a maior frequência foi observada para estrongilídeos (40%), seguida por Trichuris spp. (23,3%), Parascaris spp. (13,3%) e Capillaria spp. (3,3%). Entre os protozoários Blastocystis spp., Giardia spp. e Eimeria spp. foram detectados em 6,6%, 3,3% e 3,3%, respectivamente. Estes resultados demonstram que a técnica do Mini-FLOTAC em combinação com o Fill-FLOTAC pode ser utilizada não somente para o diagnóstico rápido das infecções parasitárias em mamíferos em zoológicos, mas também no monitoramento de programas de controle onde grande número de amostras fecais devem ser examinadas de forma rápida e confiável.

Concordance between the zinc sulphate flotation and centrifugal sedimentation methods for the diagnosis of intestinal parasites / Concordancia entre los métodos de flotación con sulfato de zinc y sedimentación centrífuga para el diagnóstico de parásitos intestinales

Resumen Introduction: The diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infections depends on the parasite load, the specific gravity density of the parasite eggs, oocysts or cysts, and the density and viscosity of flotation or sedimentation medium where faeces are processed. Objective: To evaluate the concordance between zinc sulphate flotation and centrifugal sedimentation in the recovery of parasites in faecal samples of children. Materials and methods: Faecal samples of 330 children from day care centers were evaluated by zinc sulphate flotation and centrifugal sedimentation techniques. The frequencies of detection of parasites by each method were determined and the agreement between the diagnostic techniques was evaluated using the kappa index, with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The faecal flotation in zinc sulphate diagnosed significantly more cases of Trichuris trichiura infection when compared to centrifugal sedimentation (39/330; 11.8% vs. 13/330; 3.9%, p<0.001), with low diagnostic concordance between methods (kappa=0.264; 95% CI: 0.102-0.427). Moreover, all positive samples for Enterobius vermicularis eggs (n=5) and Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (n=3) were diagnosed only by zinc sulphate. No statistical differences were observed between methods for protozoa identification. Conclusions: The results showed that centrifugal flotation in zinc sulphate solution was significantly more likely to detect light helminths eggs such as those of T. trichiura and E. vermicularis in faeces than the centrifugal sedimentation process.

Abstract Introducción. El diagnóstico de infecciones parasitarias intestinales depende de la carga de parásitos, la densidad de la gravedad específica de los huevos, ooquistes o quistes de parásitos, y de la densidad y viscosidad de los reactivos de flotación o sedimentación usados para procesar las heces. Objetivo. Evaluar la concordancia entre el método de flotación de sulfato de zinc y la sedimentación por centrifugación en la recuperación de parásitos en muestras fecales de niños. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluaron las muestras fecales de 330 niños de guarderías mediante las técnicas de flotación con sulfato de zinc y de sedimentación por centrifugación. Se determinó la frecuencia de detección de parásitos con cada método y se evaluó la concordancia entre las técnicas de diagnóstico mediante el índice kappa, con intervalos de confianza del 95 %. Resultados. Mediante la flotación fecal con sulfato de zinc, se diagnosticó un número significativamente mayor de casos de infección por Trichuris trichiura que con la sedimentación por centrifugación (39/330; 11,8 % Vs. 13/330; 3,9 %) (p<0,001), con poco acuerdo entre los métodos (kappa=0,264; IC95% 0,102-0,427). Además, todas las muestras positivas para huevos de Enterobius vermicularis (n=5) y larvas de Strongyloides stercoralis (n=3) se diagnosticaron solamente por sulfato de zinc. No se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los métodos para la identificación de protozoos. Conclusiones. La flotación centrífuga en una solución de sulfato de zinc presentó una probabilidad significativamente mayor de detectar los huevos livianos de helmintos como T. trichiura y E. vermicularis en heces, que el proceso de sedimentación por centrifugación.

Prevalencia de parasitosis intestinales en unidades educativas de Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela / Prevalence of intestinal parasites in educational units from Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela

Introducción: Las parasitosis intestinales a nivel mundial son un problema de salud pública que afecta a los países en las zonas tropicales. Un grupo muy vulnerable a padecer este tipo de infección son los niños. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue determinar la prevalencia general de parásitos intestinales en las Unidades Educativas de Ciudad Bolívar, entre los años 2009 - 2013. Materiales y Métodos: Fueron obtenidos los trabajos de grado sobre el tema del Departamento de Parasitología y Microbiología y así se recolectaron datos sobre edad, sexo, tipo de parasito, especies y asociaciones parasitarias y poder calcular así dicha prevalencia general. Resultados: Se encontró una prevalencia general de 63,1% sin predilección por la edad o sexo. Los tipos de parásitos más prevalentes fueron los protozoarios con 83,5%. Las especies más prevalentes fueron Blastocystis spp con 39,7%, Entamoeba coli con 15,3%, y Giardia intestinalis con 13,4%. Las asociaciones parasitarias más frecuentes Blastocystis sppconEndolimax nana (21,1%) yBlastocystis sppcon Entamoeba coli. (7,4%). Discusión: Los resultados de este estudio guardan relación con estudios realizados a nivel nacional como internacional, con respecto a las prevalencias de parasitosis, el predominio de protozoarios sobre helmintos en los últimos años, y la indistinción de la infección parasitaria con respecto al género. Conclusiones: La prevalencia aquí estudiada a manera general es alta, se recomienda seguir haciendo este tipo de estudios en escuelas para denotar el impacto de estas infecciones en niños y la consecuencia que esto conlleva.

Introduction: The intestinal parasites are a worldwide public health problem that affects countries in tropical and subtropical areas, a very vulnerable group to suffer this kind of infection are children .The objective of this investigation was determine the general prevalence of parasitism intestinal in the Educational Units from Ciudad Bolívar, between the years 2009 - 2013. Materials and Methods: For this were reviewed the degree work’s about intestinal parasitism’s in the Department of Parasitology and Microbiology , ando so data was collected about, age, sex, parasite type, species and parasitic association, and so calculate the general prevalence Results: It was found a general prevalence of 63,1% no predilection for the age or sex. The parasite types more prevalent have be the protozoan with 83, 5%. The species more prevalente heve be Blastocystis spp with 39, 7% Entamoeba coli with 15, 3%, and Giardia intestinalis 13, 4%. The parasitic association most frequent Blastocystis spp / Endolimax nana (21,1%) and Blastocystis spp / Entamoeba coli (7,4%). Discussion: The results of this study relate to the work done at national and international level regarding the prevalence of parasitosis, the predominance of protozoa with respect to helminths, and indistinction of parasitic infection with regard to gender. Conclusions: The prevalence in all years studied here assessed globally is high, it is recommended to keep doing this type of study in schools to denote the impact of these infections in children and the consequences that this entails.

Molecular identification of Hepatozoon canis in dogs from Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Identificação molecular de Hepatozoon canis em cães de Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Hepatozoon species infecting dogs in the municipality of Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil, using blood samples (n = 165) drawn from dogs. The species Hepatozoon caniswas identified in 3.63% of the tested animals using molecular tools. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical relevance of this infection and the main arthropod vectors involved in its transmission.

O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a frequência e espécies de Hepatozoon infectando cães no município de Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Uma amostragem de 165 animais foi utilizada e, por meio do uso de ferramentas moleculares, a espécie Hepatozoon canis foi identificada em 3,63% dos animais. Mais estudos são necessários para identificar a relevância clínica e os principais vetores envolvidos na transmissão desse protozoário na região.

OCCURRENCE OF Blastocystis spp. IN UBERABA, MINAS GERAIS, BRAZIL / Ocorrência de Blastocystis spp. em Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Intestinal parasites are a problem for public health all over the world. The infection with Blastocystis, a protozoan of controversial pathogenicity, is one of the most common among them all. In this study, the occurrence of intestinal parasites, with emphasis on Blastocystis, in patients at the Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro was investigated in Uberaba (MG) through microscopy of direct smears and fecal concentrates using Ritchie’s method. Feces of 1,323 patients were examined from April 2011 to May 2012. In 28.7% of them at least one intestinal parasite was identified, and the most frequent organisms were Blastocystis spp. (17.8%) and Giardia intestinalis (7.4%). The occurrence of parasitism was higher in children aged 6 -10 years old, and the infection with Blastocystis spp. was higher above the age of six (p < 0.001). The exclusive presence of G. intestinalis and of Blastocystis spp. was observed in 5.4% and 12.2% of the patients, respectively. Regarding patients with diarrheic feces, 8% revealed unique parasitism of Blastocystis spp. Other intestinal parasites observed in children were Ascaris lumbricoides (0.3%) and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii (1.4%). The Ritchie’s method was more sensitive (92.8%) when compared to direct microscopy (89.8%), with high agreement between them (97.7%, kappa = 0.92). In conclusion, the occurrence of Blastocystis spp. in Uberaba is high and the presence of diarrheic feces with exclusive presence of the parasite of Blastocystis spp. was observed.

Parasitos intestinais são um problema de saúde pública no mundo e a infecção por Blastocystis, protozoário de patogenicidade controversa, é uma das mais frequentes. Nesse estudo foi investigada a ocorrência de parasitos intestinais em pacientes atendidos na Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, em Uberaba (MG), com ênfase em Blastocystis, pelos métodos parasitológicos direto e de Ritchie. Foram examinadas fezes de 1.323 pacientes de abril/2011 a maio/2012. Em 28,7% deles foi identificado um parasito intestinal, sendo Blastocystis spp. (17,8%) e Giardia intestinalis (7,4%) os mais frequentes. A ocorrência de parasitismo foi maior em crianças de 6-10 anos e a infecção por Blastocystis spp. foi maior acima de seis anos (p < 0,001). Presença exclusiva de G. intestinalis e de Blastocystis spp. foi observada em 5,4% e 12,2% dos pacientes, respectivamente, sendo que dos pacientes com fezes diarreicas, 8% apresentavam parasitismo exclusivo por Blastocystis spp. Outros parasitos intestinais observados em crianças foram Ascaris lumbricoides (0,3%) e Entamoeba histolytica/dispar/moshkovskii (1,4%). O método de Ritchie foi mais sensível (92,8%) que o direto (89,8%), com alta concordância entre eles (97,7%, kappa = 0,92). Em conclusão, a ocorrência de Blastocystis spp. em Uberaba é elevada e foi observada a presença de fezes diarreicas com parasitismo exclusivo por Blastocystis spp.

On Cilia, Flagella, and Pulmonary Pseudoprotozoa

No abstract available.

Enteroparasitismo en Indígenas Terena en el Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil / Intestinal Parasitism in Terena Indigenous People of the Province of MatoGrossodoSul, Brazil

Objetivo Considerando que más de la mitad de la población mundial está infectada por protozoarios y helmintos intestinales, con alta prevalencia en las zonas más pobres, esta investigación tuvo como objetivo identificar la prevalencia de los parasitismos entre indígenas de la etnia Terena, establecidos en el Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Metodología Se examinaron 134 muestras de heces de individuos de la comunidad indígena. Estas se conservaron en solución de Merthiolate-iodo-formol (MIF). Los exámenes de laboratorio fueron realizados por las técnicas de Hoffman, Pons y Janer; Willis y Kinyoun. Resultados Se identificaron infecciones por helmintos nematodos de las especies Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostomidae, Enterobius vermicularis, Strongyloides stercoralis, y Trichuris trichiura; cestodos de la especie Hymenolepis nana, y Taeniaspp. También por protozoarios de las especies Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia lamblia, Endolimax nana, Entamoeba coli, y Entamoeba histolytica. De las muestras investigadas, 23,1% fueron negativas; de los 76,9 % parasitados hubo diferencia estadísticamente no significativa para el parasitismo en hombres y mujeres examinados, de unoa 33 años de edad, y sobre parasitismo mono específico, o con simultaneidad de especies. Como diversidad parasitaria fueron encontradas siete especies de helmintos nematodos y cestodos, y cinco de protozoarios Archamoebae, flagelados y enterozoários. Conclusiones Los resultados fueron la base para la orientación e intervención adecuada, revelando la necesidad de la implantación de medidas gubernamentales y socioeducativas para mejorar las condiciones de vida de esta comunidad...

Objective Considering that intestinal protozoans and helminths infect more than half of the world population, with high prevalence in the poorest regions, the objective of this study was to conduct parasitological research among indigenous Terena people established in the state of MatoGrosso do Sul. An inquiry was performed to find the incidence of parasitism in these communities. Methodology 134 aliquots of feces from individuals of the indigenous community were examined. Samples were conserved in Merthiolate-iodine-formol solution (MIF). The laboratory exams were carried out using the techniques of Hoffman, Pons and Janer; Willis and Kinyoun. Results We identified infections of nematode helminths of the species Ascarislumbricoides, Ancylostomidae, Enterobiusvermicularis, Strongyloidesstercoralis, and Trichuristrichiura; and cestodes of the species Hymenolepis nana and Taenia spp. Also found were the protozoan species: Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia lamblia, Endolimax nana, Entamoeba coli, and Entamoebahistolytica. 23.1 % of the samples studied were negative. Of the 76.9 % of samples with parasites, there were non-statistically significant differences in parasitism between men and women examined between 1 and 33 years-of-age. There were also no significant differences between monospecific parasitism and with concurrent species. In terms of parasitic diversity, seven species of nematode and cestodeshelminths were found along with five species of Archamoebae protozoa: flagellates and enterozoans. Conclusions These results were the basis for orientation and appropriate drug intervention and reveal the need for the implementation governmental, social and educational measures to improve the living conditions of that community...

Prevalence of ittestinal parasites among food handlers in western Iann / La prevalencia de parasitos intestinales entre los manipuladores de alimentos en el oeste de Iran

Parasitic infection is one of the problems that affect human health, especially in developing countries. In this study, all of the fast food shops, restaurants, and roast meat outlets of Khorramabad (Western Iran) and all the staff employed by them, some 210 people, were selected through a census and their stools were examined for the presence of parasites. The parasitological tests of direct wet-mount, Lugol's iodine staining, formaldehyde-ether sedimentation and Trichrome staining techniques were performed on the samples. The data was analyzed with a chi-square test and logistic regression was selected as the analytical model. The results showed 19 (9%) stool specimens were positive for different intestinal parasites. These intestinal parasites included Giardia lamblia 2.9%, Entamoeba coli 4.3%, Blastocystis sp. 1.4%, and Hymenolepis nana 0.5%. There was a significant difference between the presence of a valid health card, awareness of transmission of intestinal parasites, participation in training courses in environmental health with intestinal parasites (p < 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the rate of literacy and gender among patients infected with intestinal parasites (p > 0.05). To control parasitic infection in food handlers, several strategies are recommended such as stool examinations every three months, public education, application of health regulations, controlling the validity of health cards and training on parasitic infection transmission. In this regard, the findings of the present study can be used as a basis to develop preventive programs targeting food handlers because the spread of disease via them is a common problem worldwide.

Infección parasitaria es uno de los problemas de salud humana, especialmente en los países en desarrollo. En este estudio, todas las tiendas de comida rápida, restaurantes, y tiendas de carne asada en Khorramabad (oeste de Irán) y todo el personal que trabaja en ellos, incluyendo 210 personas fueron seleccionadas a través de los censos y las heces fueron examinadas para detectar la presencia de parásitos. La prueba parasitológica directa de mojado de montaje, la tinción de Lugol's yodo, sedimentación formaldehído-éter y tricrómicas técnicas de tinción se realizaron sobre las muestras. Los datos fueron analizados con la prueba de chi-cuadrado y regresión logística seleccionado como el modelo analítico. Los resultados mostraron 19 (9%) muestras de heces fueron positivos para diferentes parásitos intestinales. Los parásitos intestinales incluyen Giardia lamblia 2.9%, Entamoeba coli 4.3%, Blastocystis sp. 1.4%, Hymenolepis nana 0.5%. Hubo diferencia significativa entre la presencia de la tarjeta sanitaria válida, el conocimiento de la transmisión de los parásitos intestinales, la participación en cursos de formación en materia de salud ambiental con parásitos intestinales (p < 0.05). No hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre la tasa de alfabetización y el sexo entre los pacientes infectados con parásitos intestinales (p > 0.05). Para controlar la infección parasitaria en los manipuladores de alimentos se recomiendan varias estrategias, tales como examen de heces cada tres meses, la educación pública, se aplican las normas sanitarias, el control de validez de la tarjeta sanitaria y la transmisión formación infección parasitaria. En este sentido, los resultados del presente estudio se pueden utilizar como una base para desarrollar programas de prevención dirigidos a los manipuladores de alimentos debido a la propagación de enfermedades a través de ellos es un problema común en todo el mundo.

Bronchopulmonary Infection of Lophomonas blattarum: A Case and Literature Review

Human infections with Lophomonas blattarum are rare. However, the majority of the infections occurred in China, 94.4% (136 cases) of all cases in the world. This infection is difficult to differentiate from other pulmonary infections with similar symptoms. Here we reported a case of L. blattarum infection confirmed by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid smear on the microscopic observations. The patient was a 21-year-old female college student. The previous case which occurred in Chongqing was 20 years ago. We briefly reviewed on this infection reported in the world during the recent 20 years. The epidemiological characteristics, possible diagnostic basis, and treatment of this disease is discussed in order to provide a better understanding of recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of L. blattarum infection.

Parasitosis intestinales en Argentina: principales agentes causales encontrados en la población y en el ambiente / Intestinal parasitoses in Argentina: Major causal agents found in the population and in the environment

Las parasitosis intestinales se encuentran ampliamente distribuidas en el mundo, con mayor prevalencia en los países en desarrollo. Principalmente afectan a los niños, en los que además provocan disminución del desarrollo físico y mental, situación que puede potenciarse enormemente cuando se suma a un estado nutricional deficiente. La Organización Mundial de la Salud las considera una de las principales causas de morbilidad, estrechamente ligada a la pobreza y relacionada con inadecuada higiene personal, incorrecta manipulación de los alimentos crudos, falta de servicios sanitarios, falta de provisión de agua potable y contaminación fecal del ambiente. Algunas enfermedades parasitarias se vinculan con condiciones de transmisión que existen universalmente, por lo que son cosmopolitas, mientras que otras tienen distribución geográfica variable. En los últimos años, debido a la globalización, el movimiento de personas de zonas endémicas a regiones no endémicas ha permitido la diseminación de ciertas parasitosis. Y aunque también influyen en la frecuencia de algunas de estas enfermedades las costumbres de los pueblos, las condiciones ambientales son un factor determinante para la supervivencia de los parásitos. En nuestro país, debido a la diversidad de suelos y condiciones climáticas que existen, es posible hallar variedad de agentes causales de estas parasitosis. El objetivo de este trabajo fue realizar una revisión bibliográfica de los agentes parasitarios causantes de enfermedades entéricas encontrados en la República Argentina, tanto en materia fecal de personas como en el ambiente, ya que la contaminación parasitaria de este último constituye un indicador directo del riesgo de infección por parásitos intestinales.

Intestinal parasitic diseases are widely spread in the world, with the highest prevalence in developing countries. Children are mainly affected, showing a decrease in physical and mental development, as well as the expected manifestations of the disease. This situation can be greatly enhanced in children with poor nutritional status. The World Health Organization considers intestinal parasitic diseases a major cause of morbidity, closely linked to poverty and poor personal hygiene, inappropriate handling of raw food, lack of sanitation, lack of potable water supply, and environmental fecal contamination. Some parasitic diseases are cosmopolitan while others have variable geographic distribution, due to different factors such as the presence of exclusive intermediate hosts. In the past few years, globalization allowed the spread of certain parasites from endemic to non-endemic regions. Even though people's customs influence on the frequency of certain parasites, environmental conditions are a determinant factor for parasite survival. In our country, due to the variety of soils and climatic conditions, several causative agents of these parasitoses can be found. The aim of this work was to review the literature on the intestinal parasitic agents found in Argentina in human fecal samples and its environment, as parasitic contamination constitutes a direct indicator of the infection risk by intestinal parasites.

Prevalence and risk factors for intestinal protozoa infection in elderly residents at Long Term Residency Institutions in Southeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco para infecção por protozoários intestinais em idosos residentes nas Instituições de Longa Permanência no Sudeste do Brasil

This study determined the prevalence of intestinal protozoa in Long Term Residency Institutions for the Elderly (ILPI) in elders, nurses and food handlers, identifying the risk factors associated with the infections. Stool samples taken from the elderly (n = 293), nurses (63) and food handlers (19) were studied. Questionnaires were used with questions related to sociodemographic variables, health, behavior and health characteristics. Stool samples were examined using the techniques of Faust and Ziehl Neelsen, and the prevalence of G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., E. histolytica/dispar in the elderly was 4.0%, 1.0% and 0.3% respectively. Nurses and food handlers showed 4.8% and 5.2% positivity only for G. duodenalis, respectively. The origin of the individuals and contact with domestic animals has been associated with infection by G. duodenalis in the elderly, and contact with domestic animals was considered a risk factor for infection. The last stool examinations were related to Cryptosporidium spp.. None of the variables were associated with E. histolytica/dispar. The frequency of hand washing was significantly associated with G. duodenalis among nurses. The frequency of positive samples of G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., E. histolytica/dispar showed that ILPIs environments are conducive to this occurring due to contact between the elderly, nurses and food handlers, which are often poorly trained in hygiene procedures and food handling.

Este estudo determinou a prevalência de protozoários intestinais em Instituições de Longa Permanência para Idosos (ILPI), enfermeiros, manipuladores de alimentos identificando fatores de risco associados às infecções. Amostras de fezes de idosos (n = 293), enfermeiros (63), manipuladores de alimentos (19) foram estudadas. Foram aplicados questionários relacionados a variáveis sociodemográficas, de higiene, comportamento e características de saúde. As amostras de fezes foram examinadas pelas técnicas de Faust e Ziehl Neelsen e a prevalência de G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., E.histolytica/dispar nos idosos foi de 4,0%, 1,0% e 0,3%, respectivamente. Enfermeiros e manipuladores de alimentos apresentaram 4,8% e 5,2% de positividade apenas para G. duodenalis, respectivamente. A origem dos indivíduos, o contato com animais domésticos foram associados à infecção por G. duodenalis nos idosos, sendo que o contato com animais domésticos foi considerado um fator de risco para a infecção, o tempo do último exame coproparasitológico foi relacionado a Cryptosporidium spp.. Nenhuma das variáveis apresentaram associação com E. histolytica/dispar. A frequência da lavagem das mãos foi associada significativamente com G. duodenalis entre enfermeiros. As frequências de amostras positivas para G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., E. histolytica/dispar demonstram que ILPIs são ambientes propícios para esta ocorrência devido ao contato entre idosos, enfermeiros, manipuladores de alimentos, que muitas vezes são mal treinados em procedimentos de higiene e manipulação de alimentos.

Studies on protozoa in ancient remains - A Review

Paleoparasitological research has made important contributions to the understanding of parasite evolution and ecology. Although parasitic protozoa exhibit a worldwide distribution, recovering these organisms from an archaeological context is still exceptional and relies on the availability and distribution of evidence, the ecology of infectious diseases and adequate detection techniques. Here, we present a review of the findings related to protozoa in ancient remains, with an emphasis on their geographical distribution in the past and the methodologies used for their retrieval. The development of more sensitive detection methods has increased the number of identified parasitic species, promising interesting insights from research in the future.

Diseño, síntesis y evaluación biológica de un grupo de pirazinoisoquinolinas y quinolinas con posible actividad esquistosomicida y leishmanicida respectivamente / Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of a group of pyrazinoisoquinolines and quinolines with possible schistosomicidal and leishmanicidal activity respectively

La esquistosomiasis y la leishmaniasis son dos parasitosis con una alta incidencia en el mundo y con la menor cantidad de medicamentos disponibles para sus tratamientos. Para la esquistosomiasis, el praziquantel (PZQ) es la única droga que existe en los actuales momentos contra la enfermedad, mientras que, en el caso de la leishmaniasis, los antimoniales pentavalentes, empleados como drogas de primera línea, son altamente tóxicos o presentan problemas de resistencia. Por ello, esta tesis describe el diseño, la síntesis y los estudios de actividad biológica de un grupo de pirazinoisoquinolinas y quinolinas sustituidas con posible actividad esquistosomicida y leishmanicida respectivamente. Luego de ensayar diversas vías, se logró la síntesis del PZQ y compuestos relacionados (quince compuestos) mediante una secuencia de cinco pasos, con rendimientos entre el 20% y el 60%. El PZQ se obtuvo en un 33%, con un exceso del enantiómero levo, mostrando ser más activo que el PZQ comercial (mezcla racémica). Los compuestos obtenidos, evaluados en cepas de S. mansoni, no mostraron ser más activos que el PZQ, a las dos concentraciones evaluadas. También, se cuantificó la relación entre la estructura química y la actividad biológica (QSAR) de derivados de PZQ reportados en la literatura. En cuanto a los compuestos con posible actividad leishmanicida, también se ensayaron varios métodos de síntesis hasta lograr obtener veintidós quinolínas de los tipos 2-metil, 2-propil, 4-metil-2-propil y 2-alquildiamino con rendimientos entre un 10 y un 70%. Los compuestos evaluados que mostraron una actividad prometedora en promastigotes de L. mexicanafueron la 2-metilquinolina y 6,7-metilendioxi-2-propil-quinolina. En cuanto a los estudios QSAR, no fue posible encontrar una ecuación representativa que relacionara la actividad biológica con la estructura química.

Schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis are two parasitic diseaseswell spread in the world, and at the same time both have very few medications for their treatment. For schistosomiasis, praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for its treatment, while in the case of leishmaniasis, the pentavalent antimonials used as first line drugs are highly toxic or present resistance problems. This work describes the design, synthesis and biological activity studies of a group of pirazinoisoquinolines and substituted quinolines with a possible schistosomicidal and leishmanicidal activities, respectively. After several intents, it was possible to synthesize PZQ and some related compounds (fifteen) through a sequence of five steps, with yields between 20 and 60%. PZQ was obtained with a yield of 33%, with a levoenantiomeric excess, and showed a better activity than the commercial compound. The related compounds obtained, evaluated against S. mansonistrains did not have an activity comparable to that of PZQ, at the concentrations evaluated. Quantitative structure­activity relationships (QSAR)studieswere also performed with PZQ derivatives reported in the literature.Several ways of synthesis were also probed for the possible leishmanicidal compounds proposed, until it was possible to obtain twenty two quinoline derivatives (of the type 2-methyl-, 2-propyl-, 4-methyl-2-propyl-and 2-alquildiamino-), with yields between10 and 70%. Of the compounds evaluated, two showed promising activity against L. mexicana promastigotes, 2-iimethylquinoline and 6,7-methylendioxi-2-propyl-quinoline. QSAR studies with these compounds did not yield a representative model for the set.

Enteroparasitosis en niños desnutridos graves de un hospital de la ciudad de Maracaibo, Venezuela / Intestinal parasitosis in severely malnourished children at a hospital in the city of Maracaibo, Venezuela

Para comparar la prevalencia de enteroparásitos en niños con desnutrición severa de la Unidad de Recuperación Nutricional del Hospital Chiquinquirá de Maracaibo, Estado Zulia, con niños eutróficos que asisten a la consulta de niños sanos del mismo hospital; se realizó un examen coproparasitológico a 50 niños desnutridos graves y 50 niños eutróficos, mediante examen directo; técnica de concentración (Ritchie) y coloración de Ziehl Neelsen. Entre los protozoarios, Cryptosporidium sp. ocupó el primer lugar con un 14% en el grupo de los desnutridos graves y Giardia lamblia en los eutróficos con un 20%. De los helmintos identificados, Trichuruis trichiura prevaleció con 12% en los desnutridos, mientras Ascaris lumbricoides en los eutróficos ocupó el primer lugar con un 8%. No se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre la prevalencia de parásitos en general con la edad, el sexo o la desnutrición, ni entre poliparasitismo versus monoparasitismo. La medida en que se relacionan la desnutrición y las parasitosis intestinales es difícil de esclarecer, al ser la desnutrición una condición multifactorial ya que depende de la especie parasitaria presente, la intensidad de la parasitosis, las características inmunológicas y genéticas del hospedero, del medio socioeconómico en el que se desenvuelva el individuo, entre otros factores.

To compare the prevalence of intestinal parasites in children with severe malnutrition in the Nutritional Recovery Unit at the Chiquinquirá Hospital of Maracaibo, State of Zulia, with eutrophic children attending consult for healthy children at the same hospital, stool examinations were performed for 50 seriously malnourished children and 50 eutrophic children by direct examination, using the concentration technique (Ritchie) and Ziehl Neelsen. Among the protozoa, Cryptosporidium sp. ranked first, with 14% in the group of severely malnourished and Giardia lamblia in 20% of the eutrophic children. Of the identified helminths, Trichuris trichiura prevailed, with 12% in the malnourished group, while Ascaris lumbricoides took first place with 8% in the eutrophic group. No statistically significant difference was found between the prevalence of parasites in general with age, sex or malnutrition, or between polyparasitism versus monoparasitism. The extent to which malnutrition and intestinal parasites relate is difficult to clarify, since malnutrition is a multifactorial condition that depends on the parasite species present, intensity of the parasitosis, immunologic and genetic characteristics of the host, the socio economic environment in which the individual develops and other factors.

Parasitological stool sample exam by spontaneous sedimentation method using conical tubes: effectiveness, practice, and biosafety / Exame parasitológico de fezes pelo método de sedimentação espontânea utilizando tubos cônicos: eficácia, praticidade e biossegurança

INTRODUCTION: Spontaneous sedimentation is an important procedure for stool examination. A modification of this technique using conical tubes was performed and evaluated. METHODS: Fifty fecal samples were processed in sedimentation glass and in polypropylene conical tubes. Another 50 samples were used for quantitative evaluation of protozoan cysts. RESULTS: Although no significant differences occurred in the frequency of protozoa and helminths detected, significant differences in protozoan cyst counts did occur. CONCLUSIONS: The use of tube predicts a shorter path in the sedimentation of the sample, increases concentration of parasites for microscopy analysis, minimizes the risks of contamination, reduces the odor, and optimizes the workspace.

INTRODUÇÃO: A sedimentação espontânea é um procedimento importante para o exame parasitológico de fezes. Uma modificação desta técnica utilizando tubos cônicos foi realizada e avaliada. MÉTODOS: Cinquenta amostras de fezes foram processadas em cálices de sedimentação de vidro e em tubos cônicos de polipropileno. Outras 50 amostras foram usadas para avaliação quantitativa de cistos de protozoários. RESULTADOS: Embora não tenham sido encontradas diferenças significativas na frequência de helmintos e protozoários identificados, houve diferença significativa na contagem de cistos de protozoários. CONCLUSÕES: O uso do tubo prevê um caminho mais curto na sedimentação da amostra, aumenta a concentração de parasitas para a análise microscópica, minimiza os riscos de contaminação, reduz o odor e otimiza o espaço de trabalho.