Intestinal Perforation and Perianal Ulcer Due to Parasitic Infection / Perforación intestinal y úlcera perianal por infección parasitaria

Abstract Balantidium coli is the largest protozoan and the only ciliated parasite that infects humans. It causes balantidiasis, a disease humans acquire by fecal-oral transmission from its usual host: the pig. We report the case of an immunocompetent schoolgirl who presented with peritonitis due to intestinal perforation, with perianal ulceration secondary to polyparasitism caused by Balantidium coli, Enterobius vermicularis, and Trichuris trichiura. It is a rare, potentially preventable complication with extremely high mortality rates. The patient required eight surgical interventions.

Resumen Balantidium coli es el protozoario más grande y el único parásito ciliado que infecta a los seres humanos. Es el causante de la balantidiasis, enfermedad adquirida por los humanos por transmisión fecal-oral desde su hospedero habitual: el cerdo. Reportamos el caso de una escolar inmunocompetente, que presentó peritonitis por perforación intestinal, con ulceración perianal secundaria a poliparasitismo por Balantidium coli, Enterobius vermicularis y Trichuris trichiura. Esta es una complicación poco frecuente, potencialmente prevenible y con tasas de mortalidad extremadamente altas. La paciente requirió 8 intervenciones quirúrgicas.

Balantidium coli apendicular como hallazgo incidental. Reporte de un caso / Apendicular balantidium coli as incidental finding during surgery. Report of a case

Resumen Balantidium coli es el único miembro de la familia Balantidiidae capaz de producir infección en seres humanos. Presentamos un caso en un hombre de 43 años que ingresa para corrección quirúrgica de hernia ventral durante la cual se realizó apendicetomía profiláctica. En el estudio histopatológico se observó apéndice cecal con arquitectura conservada, sin la presencia de apendicitis ni periapendicitis. En la luz se reconocieron estructuras grandes (aproximado de 50 μm) redondas con citoplasma amplio con vacuolas grandes, cilias periféricas y núcleos densos, los cuales correspondieron a trofozoitos de Balantidium coli.

Abstract Balantidium coli is the only member of the Balantidiiae family capable of infecting human beings. We present one in a 43 years-old male admitted for a surgical co rrection of an incisional hernia with prophylactic appendicectomy. Histopathological findings reported the cecal appendix within normal architecture, appendicitis and peri-appendicitis free. At the lumen big, rounded shape structures (aprox. 50 mm) were visible with broad cytoplasm, big vacuoles, peripheral cilia and dense nucleus, corresponding to Balantidium coli trophozoites.

Research and extension action for parasitic control in pig breeding families located in Tanguá, Rio de Janeiro / Pesquisa e ação de extensão para controle das parasitoses em propriedades familiares de criação de suínos localizadas em Tanguá, Rio de Janeiro

This study aimed to analyze the parasites infesting pigs and their producers on family farms in Tanguá, RJ, Brazil, and to conduct extension activities between 2018 and 2019. Fecal samples were collected from 132 pigs, as well as, skin scrapings from the ears of 125 animals. In addition, 36 stool specimens from farmers and their families were analyzed. The collected material was processed by direct examination, sedimentation and flotation techniques. Gastrointestinal parasites were detected in 88.6% of the pigs, especially coccidia (71.8%), Balantioides coli (55%), strongyles (40.2%) and Strongyloides ransomi (31.6%) which showed statistically significance (p<0.05). Ectoparasites were identified in 16% of the pigs, mostly Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis (76.2%). Parasites were detected in 19.4% of the humans, including, Entamoeba coli (19.4%), Ascaris lumbricoides (8.3%) and Trichuris trichiura (5.5%). The frequency of B. coli and S. scabiei var. suis (p<0.05) were statistically significant, when analyzing the age group of the animals, having been more detected in the older years, fatterners phase. The pig farmers participated in these activities extension, which included lecture and "field day", aimed at imparting information about parasites and their prophylaxis. The situation in Tanguá pig farms reinforces the need to carry out programs that provide technical support to these farmers, whose livelihood depends on pig farming.(AU)

Este estudo objetivou analisar os parasitos que infectam suínos e seus produtores em propriedades familiares em Tanguá, RJ, Brasil, realizando atividades extensionistas entre 2018 e 2019. Amostras fecais foram coletadas de 132 suínos, bem como raspados da pele da orelha de 125 animais. Além disso, 36 amostras fecais dos produtores e seus familiares foram analisadas. O material coletado foi processado pelo exame direto e por técnicas de sedimentação e flutuação. Parasitos gastrointestinais foram detectados em 88,6% dos suínos, principalmente coccídios (71,8%), Balantioides coli (55%), estrôngilos (40,2%) e Strongyloides ransomi (31,6%) que apresentaram significância estatística (p<0,05). Ectoparasitos foram identificados em 16% dos suínos, principalmente Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis (76,2%). Parasitos foram detectados em 19,4% das amostras fecais humanas, incluindo Entamoeba coli (19,4%), Ascaris lumbricoides (8,3%) e Trichuris trichiura (5,5%). A frequência de B. coli e S. scabiei var. suis foi estatisticamente significativa (p<0,05), quando se analisou os animais por faixa etária, tendo sido principalmente detectado nos animais mais velhos, como na fase de terminação. Os produtores de suínos participaram ativamente das atividades de extensão, incluído a palestra e a atividade "dia de campo", que tinham como objetivo mediar informações sobre parasitos e suas medidas profiláticas. A situação nas granjas familiares de Tanguá demonstra a necessidade de realização de programas que apoiem tecnicamente esses produtores, que utilizam a suinocultura como fonte de subsistência.(AU)

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.

Fatal parasite-induced enteritis and typhlocolitis in horses in Southern Brazil / Enterites e tiflocolites parasitárias fatais em equinos no Sul do Brasil

Abstract Diseases related to the alimentary system are the main cause of death in horses. This retrospective study aimed to describe the pathological findings of fatal parasite-induced enteritis and typhlocolitis caused by cyathostominae, Eimeria leuckarti, Balantidium coli, and Strongyloides westeri in horses. The records of parasite-induced intestinal lesions in horses necropsied in Southern Brazil between 2005 and 2017 were reviewed. Ten horses had fatal parasitic enteritis and/or typhlocolitis, and the main causes were: cyathostominae typhlocolitis (6/10), E. leuckarti enteritis (1/10), S. westeri enteritis (1/10), B. coli colitis related to cyathostominae (1/10), and infection by multiple agents (1/10). Cyathostominae typhlocolitis showed marked mucosal thickening, with multifocal elevated nodules containing tangled filiform parasites. Microscopic examination revealed that the mucosa and submucosa had encysted parasitic structures surrounded by eosinophilic and granulomatous inflammation. E. leuckarti enteritis was microscopically characterized by macrogamonts, microgamonts, and oocysts inside the host cells. S. westeri enteritis showed microscopic atrophy of the villi with numerous mucosal encysted parasitic structures. B. coli typhlocolitis showed severe diffuse mucosal reddening, with microscopic superficial mucosal necrosis associated with multiple protozoan trophozoites. Fatal parasite-induced enteritis and typhlocolitis are important causes of death in horses in Southern Brazil.

Resumo Doenças relacionadas ao sistema alimentar são as principais causas de morte em equinos. Esse estudo teve o objetivo de descrever aspectos patológicos de enterites e tiflocolites parasitárias fatais por ciatostomíneos, Eimeria leuckarti, Balantidium coli e Strongyloides westeri, em equinos. Foi revisado o banco de dados de lesões intestinais parasitárias em equinos necropsiados de 2005 a 2017, no Sul do Brasil. Dez equinos apresentaram enterite e/ou tiflocolite parasitária fatal, e as principais foram: tiflocolite por ciatostomíneos (6/10), enterite por E. leuckarti (1/10), enterite por S. westeri (1/10), colite por B. coli com ciatostomíneos (1/10), e infecção por múltiplos agentes (1/10). A tiflocolite por ciatostomíneos exibia acentuado espessamento da mucosa, com nódulos multifocais elevados contendo parasitas filiformes. Microscopicamente, a mucosa e submucosa apresentavam estruturas parasitárias encistadas envoltas por inflamação eosinofílica e granulomatosa. A enterite por E. leuckarti era caracterizada microscopicamente por macrogamontes, microgamontes e oocistos no interior de células do hospedeiro. Microscopicamente, a enterite por S. westeri apresentava atrofia de vilosidades com numerosas estruturas parasitárias encistadas na mucosa. A tiflocolite por B. coli exibia avermelhamento acentuado difuso da mucosa, e microscopicamente necrose superficial associada a múltiplos trofozoítos protozoáricos. Enterites e tiflocolites fatais parasitárias são importantes causas de morte em equinos no Sul do Brasil.

Identificación de bacterias y parásitos asociados a la materia fecal de diferentes ejemplares de Equus ferus caballus de Salento, departamento del Quindío / Identification of bacteria and parasites associated with fecal matter from different specimens of Equus ferus caballus from Salento, department of Quindío

Las enfermedades de origen zoonótico han sido gravemente descuidadas en países en vía de desarrollo, sin tener en cuenta que esto puede tener graves implicaciones a nivel de salud pública, particularmente para Colombia, en las últimas décadas se han dado fuertes cambios sociales que han implicado, entre otras cosas, el aumento de la tendencia a la posesión de animales de compañía incluyendo a Equus ferus caballus, para el cual, la microbiota asociada ha sido mal estudiada en comparación con otros animales. Por lo anterior, se planteó como objetivo identificar la microbiota bacteriana y parasitaria asociada a la materia fecal de Equus ferus caballus, para cumplir dicho objetivo, se tomaron muestras independientes para cada uno de los fines, realizando la concentración de parásitos mediante la técnica de Ritchie y cultivo de bacterias para su posterior identificación mediante el Kit BD BBL CRYSTAL E/NF y GP. Para el análisis de los datos se realizó regresión logística mediante Statgraphics. Se lograron aislar 19 bacterias de las cuales seis fueron explicadas por al menos uno de las variables tenidas en cuenta. Nueve de las bacterias aisladas no se habían reportado con anterioridad para equinos. Se reportan tres géneros de parásitos nuevos para la especie (Balantidium sp, Cyclospora sp. y Taenia sp.) y cuatro nuevos para el país (Allantosoma sp, Blepharocorys sp, Cycloposthium sp. y Bundleia sp.) Se concluye que las variables tenidas en cuenta si tienen influencia en la incidencia de algunos microorganismos aislados, de igual manera se reportan nuevas especies de bacterias para Equus ferus caballus así como de parásitos.

Diseases of zoonotic origin have been seriously neglected in developing countries, without taking into account that this may have serious public health implications, particularly for Colombia, in recent decades there have been strong social changes that have involved, among other things, the increase of the tendency to the possession of companion animals including Equus ferus caballus, for which, the associated microbiota has been poorly studied in comparison with other animals. Therefore, we set ourselves the objective of identifying the bacterial and parasitic diversity associated with fecal matter of Equus ferus caballus. For this, independent samples were taken for each of the purposes, making the concentration of parasites using the Ritchie technique; Samples for bacterial isolation were processed and identified with the BD BBL CRYSTAL E / NF and GP Kit. For the analysis of the data, logistic regression was performed using Statgraphics. We were able to isolate 19 bacteria, of which six were explained by at least one of the variables taken into account. Nine of the isolated bacteria had not been previously reported for equines. Three genera of new parasites are reported for the species (Balantidium sp, Cyclospora sp and Taenia sp.) And four new for the country (Allantosoma sp, Blepharocorys sp, Cycloposthium sp. and Bundleia sp.) It is concluded that the variables taken into if they have influence on the incidence of some isolated microorganisms, in the same way new species of bacteria for Equus ferus caballus as well as parasites are reported.

Comparative study of three xenic media culture for cultivation of Balantidium coli strains / Estudo comparativo entre três meios de cultivo xênicos para o cultivo de cepas de Balantidium coli

Abstract The aim of the present study was to evaluate the growth rate of Balantidium coli in three xenic media cultures. Between 2013 and 2015, 10 B. coli isolates obtained from feces of Cynomolgus macaques, and 30 isolates from feces of pigs were studied. An inoculum of 500 trophozoites was transferred to tubes containing LES, TYSGM-9 and Pavlova media. These cultures were evaluated at incubation times of 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours. In most of strains analyzed wasn't showed significant difference in the growth rate comparing TYSGM-9 and Pavlova media (Wilcoxon p>0.016). In Pavlova medium, the trophozoites showed a maximum growth at 72 hours with significant difference when compared with the times of 24 h and 96 h (Wilcoxon <0.008). In LES, viable trophozoites were observed until 24 hours, with a significant difference (Friedman p<0.05, Wilcoxon p<0.016) in the number of parasite cells compared with Pavlova and TYSGM-9 media cultures. Thus, LES medium seemed to be less adequate than the other media for maintenance of B. coli. Despite the satisfactory results in TYSGM-9, Pavlova medium was considered ideal for the maintenance of this protozoan strain, guaranteeing the viability of the parasite with subculture every three days, presenting lower costs.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a taxa de crescimento de Balantidium coli em três meios de cultura xênicos. Entre 2013 e 2015 foram estudados 10 isolados de B. coli obtidos de Cynomolgus macaques e 30 isolados de suínos. Um inóculo contendo 500 trofozoítos foi transferido para tubos contendo os meios LES, TYSGM-9 e Pavlova. Os cultivos foram avaliados com tempos de incubação de 24, 48, 72 e 96 horas. Na maioria das cepas analisadas não foi observado diferença significativa na taxa de crescimento comparando TYSGM-9 e Pavlova (Wilcoxon p>0,016). Em Pavlova, os trofozoítos apresentaram máximo de crescimento a 72 h com diferença significativa quando se comparou com os tempos de 24 h e 96 h (Wilcoxon <0,008). Em LES observou-se trofozoítos viáveis até 24 horas com diferença significativa (Friedman p<0,05 e Wilcoxon p<0,016), na quantidade de células parasitárias, quando comparado com Pavlova e TYSGM-9. Dessa forma, o meio LES mostrou-se ser menos adequado do que os outros, para a manutenção de B. coli. Apesar do resultado satisfatório em TYSGM-9, Pavlova foi considerado ideal para manutenção do protozoário, por garantir a viabilidade do parasito com subcultivos a cada três dias, além de apresentar menor custo.

The First Case of Diarrhoea in Tibetan Sheep, Ovis aries, Caused by Balantidium coli in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau Area, China

This study was carried out to determine the pathogen-causing diarrhoea in sheep Ovis aries in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau Area, China. A trophozoite was identified as species of ciliate alveolates infecting the sheep based on morphological characteristics examined by microscope. It was mostly spherical, colourless and transparent, with many vesicles. Macronucleus and contractile vacuoles could not be distinguished. Size of the trophozoite was 80–180×70–150 μm and its surface was covered with cilia. Molecular analysis based on sequences of 18S rRNA and ITS genes confirmed the ciliate species as Balantidium coli. According to the literature, there have been many epidemiological investigations of B. coli infection in pigs, monkeys and humans. To our knowledge, this was the first report of B. coli infections in sheep in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau Area of China, or eleswhere around the world. Importantly, the sheep case was rare but raised our concern that B. coli may spread across species and expand its host range.

Annual Report on the External Quality Assessment Scheme for Clinical Parasitology in Korea (2017)

Annual proficiency surveys were conducted in March, May, and August of 2017 as the Korean Association of External Quality Assessment Service. Overall, four image samples (MPI-17-01, MPI-17-02, MPI-17-03, MPI-17-04) in the first trial, three image samples (MPI-17-05, MPI-17-06 , MPI-17-07) in the second trial, and a slide specimen (MPS-17-01) using parasite samples in the third trial were distributed to participating institutions. The first and second trial specimens were prepared by photographing slides made of formalin-ether concentrate of positive samples stored for educational purposes. The slide distributed in the third trial was prepared using cellophane tape, which was stored after diagnosis of the patients infected with Enterobius vermicularis . There were 191 participating institutions in the first, 204 in the second, and 212 in the third trial. The correct identification rates were 27.2% for MPI-17-01 Diphyllobothrium species (sp.), 96.6% for MPI-17-02 no parasite, 67.5% for MPI-17-03 Metagonimus yokogawai , 71.2% for MPI-17-04 Balantidium coli , 99.0% for MPI-17-05 Taenia sp., 99.0% for MPI-17-06 Trichuris trichiura , 92.7% for MPI-17-07 Cryptosporidium sp., and 96.7% for MPS-17-01 E. vermicularis . The current external quality assessment for clinical parasitology was performed using image samples and standard slides. Surveys of parasitic infections should be accompanied by continuous education on various parasitic infections, for which there was lack of experience of inspection in clinical laboratories. In the future, it will be necessary to establish a standard material using parasitic samples, and ultimately to conduct a survey on whole series of tests for the diagnosis of parasitic diseases.

Comparison of five parasitological techniques for laboratory diagnosis of Balantidium coli cysts / Comparação de cinco técnicas parasitológicas para diagnóstico laboratorial de cistos de Balantidium coli

Abstract Balantidium coli is a protozoon that can cause dysentery in humans, pigs and nonhuman primates, with zoonotic potential. In the literature, there is still little information on the effectiveness of different laboratory techniques for diagnosing this disease. This study compared and evaluated the performance of the Lutz, modified Ritchie, Faust, modified Sheather and direct examination techniques for detecting cysts of this protozoon. Between 2012 and 2014, 1905 fecal samples were collected from captive animals in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Of these, 790 were obtained from the rectum of pigs and 1115 from enclosures occupied by nonhuman primates. B. coli cysts were most evident through direct examination (22.4% of the samples) and the Lutz technique (21%). Fair agreement (Kappa = 0.41; p < 0.05) was observed only between direct examination and Lutz. The flotation techniques (Faust and modified Sheather) did not show good recovery of cysts. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the frequency of cysts between pigs and nonhuman primates could only be observed through direct examination and the Lutz technique. The most efficient method for diagnosing this parasitosis was seen to an association between direct examination and the spontaneous sedimentation technique.

Resumo Balantidium coli é um protozoário que pode determinar disenteria em humanos, suínos e primatas não humanos apresentando potencial zoonótico. Na literatura ainda são escassas as informações sobre a eficiência das diferentes técnicas laboratoriais para o diagnóstico dessa parasitose. Este estudo comparou e avaliou o desempenho das técnicas de Lutz, Ritchie modificada, Faust, Sheather modificada e do exame direto para a detecção de cistos desse protozoário. Entre 2012 e 2014, foram coletadas 1905 amostras fecais de animais cativos no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Dessas, 790 foram obtidas da ampola retal de suínos e 1115 dos recintos de primatas não humanos. Cistos de B. coli foram 22,4 % mais evidenciados pelo exame direto; e pela técnica de Lutz, 21% das amostras. Concordância regular (Kappa = 0,41; p < 0,05) foi observada somente entre exame direto e Lutz. As técnicas de flutuação, Faust et al. e Sheather modificada não apresentaram boa recuperação dos cistos. Diferença estatística significativa (p < 0,05) na frequência de cistos entre suínos e primatas não humanos pode ser observada somente no exame direto e na técnica de Lutz. A metodologia mais eficiente para diagnóstico dessa parasitose foi observada pela associação do exame direto e da técnica de sedimentação espontânea.

Gastrointestinal parasites of swine raised in different management systems in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Parasitos gastrintestinais de suínos criados sob diferentes sistemas de manejo no Estado do Rio de Janeiro

From 2012 to 2013 were surveyed gastrointestinal parasites from pig farms located in different municipalities in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Fecal samples from 790 pigs were collected from the rectum on 88 family farms and 702 farms with industrial production. The samples were subjected to Faust et al., Sheather, Ritchie, Lutz and direct examination faecal techniques. The estimated parasite prevalence was 93.1% in family farms and 59.1% in industrial farms. Balantidium coli, coccidia and Entamoeba sp. were the parasites with the highest frequencies, and the male and female reproductive categories and fatteners pigs the most infected (p<0.05). Trophozoites of B. coli were most evident in stool samples from semi-solid followed by solid and diarrheal consistencies. Strongyles eggs and Trichuris suis have been detected exclusively in family farms. Ascaris suum eggs and Strongyloides ransomi showed low frequency. The high degree of parasitism, especially protozoa, indicates the need to reassess the management of pigs in both types of production...

De 2012 a 2013 foram pesquisados parasitos gastrintestinais de suínos de granjas localizadas em diferentes municípios do estado do Rio de Janeiro. Amostras fecais de 790 suínos foram coletadas da ampola retal, sendo 88 de propriedades familiares e 702 de granjas com produção industrial. As amostras foram submetidas às técnicas de Faust et al., Sheather, Ritchie, Lutz e exame direto. A prevalência estimada foi de 93,1% nas granjas familiares e 59,1% nas granjas industriais. Balantidium coli, coccídios e Entamoeba sp. foram os parasitos que apresentaram as maiores frequências, sendo as categorias machos e fêmeas reprodutoras e leitões de terminação as mais infectadas (p<0,05). Trofozoítas de B. coli foram mais evidenciados nas amostras fecais de consistências semi-sólida, seguida pelas fezes com consistências sólida e diarreica. Ovos de estrongilídeos e Trichuris suis foram detectados exclusivamente em criações familiares. Ovos de Ascaris suum e de Strongyloides ransomi apresentaram baixa frequência. O alto grau de parasitismo, principalmente de protozoários, indica a necessidade de reavaliação do manejo dos suínos em ambos os tipos de produção...

Balantidium honghuensis n. sp. (Ciliophora: Trichostomatidae) from the Rectum of Rana nigromaculata and R. limnocharis from Honghu Lake, China

A new trichostome ciliate, Balantidium honghuensis n. sp., was isolated from the recta of Rana nigromaculata and R. limnocharis during parasite surveys in Honghu Lake, Hubei Province, central China in summer of 2010 and 2011. Its detailed morphometric characters based on LM and SEM studies were described herein. The organism is oval in shape and thickly ciliated. The vestibulum is "V" shaped and occupies about 1/3 to 2/5 of the body length. The vestibular and nearby regions possess strong peripheral fibers which form a marked axial fiber about the cytopharynx. More than 10 contractile vacuoles are distributed along the periphery of the latter body. Comparisions were made between this new species and B. sinensis Nie, 1935. They were discriminated from each other in terms of general body forms, body size, and vestibulum shapes. Besides, special attention was paid to its high-speed daughter swarmers which we believed to be the infective stage of B. honghuensis. Possible infection routes of anura amphibian balantidia were discussed.

Report on a balantidiasis case in a person living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA)

Balantidium coli é um protozoário parasito ciliado que afeta os porcos e primatas não-humanos. Sua presença em seres humanos é rara e pode se tornar um parasito oportunista em hospedeiros imunodeprimidos. Balantidíase é uma doença causada pela ingestão de cistos de B. coli. Osindivíduos infectados podem apresentar dor abdominal, cefaléia, astenia, tenesmo, meteorismo e diarréia caracterizada por cinco ou seis evacuações por dia. Este trabalho é o primeiro no Brasil a relatar a presença de B. coli em um paciente HIV-positivo.

Levantamento qualitativo de gêneros de parasitos em amostras fecais de jacarés criados comercialmente em sistema fechado no estado do Rio de Janeiro / Qualitative survey of parasites genera on fecal samples of alligators in a commercial closed farming system in the state of Rio de Janeiro

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar um diagnóstico qualitativo dos gêneros de parasitos encontrados em amostras fecais ambientais de jacarés (Caiman latirostris Daudin, 1802), criados comercialmente em sistema fechado, no período de 2008 a 2009, no estado do Rio de Janeiro. Um total de 300 amostras foi coletado de 150 filhotes, 80 de animais de engorda e 70 de reprodução, e submetido a análises coproparasitológicas, de flutuação (método de Willis-Mollay) e sedimentação simples (método de Lutz), de acordo com Hoffmann (1987). As amostras foram visualizadas à luz da microscopia óptica. Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram a presença de oocistos de Eimeria e Isospora, cistos de Balantidium e ovos de Acanthostomum e Dujardinascaris.

The objective of this paper was to diagnose qualitatively parasite genera found in environmental fecal samples of alligators (Caiman latirostris Daudin, 1802) commercially bred from 2008 to 2009 in a closed farming system in the state of Rio de Janeiro. A total of 300 samples were collected from 150 young, 80 fattening and 70 breeding processed by two different methods, the flotation (method of Willis-Mollay) and simple sedimentation (method of Lutz), according to Hoffmann (1987). The samples were then examined by optical microscopy. The results revealed presence of Eimeria and Isospora oocysts, Balantidium cysts, and Acanthostomum and Dujardinascaris eggs.

Prueba de susceptibilidad antiparasitaria in vitro para Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar, Balantidium coli / In vitro antiparasite susceptibility test for Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar, Balantidium c

Antecedentes: Pruebas de susceptibilidad antiparasitaria in vitro para Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar y Balantidium coli, así como el cultivo para protozoarios intestinales, han sido publicados escasamente en la literatura médica. En nuestro medio aún no se ha comunicado pruebas de susceptibilidad in vitro para los parásitos mencionados. Objetivos: Plantear una alternativa de prueba de susceptibilidad antiparasitaria in vitro y conocer su resistencia frente a los antimicrobianos. Diseño: Estudio prospectivo, descriptivo. Instituciones: Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Daniel Alcides Carrión", Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, e Instituto Especializado de Salud del Niño, Lima, Perú. Material biológico: Cultivos de Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar y Balantidium coli frente a cinco antimicrobianos. Métodos: Se trabajó con 64 cultivos de Blastocystis hominis, 16 de Entamoeba histolytica-dispar y 16 de Balantidium coli, frente a cinco antimicrobianos: metronidazol, cotrimoxazol, tetraciclina, furazolidona y ciprofloxacina. Las cepas de B. hominis, E. histolytica-E. dispar fueron cultivadas en el medio de Pavlova modificado, de 500 muestras de heces de niños con diagnóstico de parasitosis intestinal y las de B. coli de heces de cerdo. Las pruebas de susceptibilidad in vitro se realizaron con el método de microcultivos en el medio de Pavlova modificado, en pocitos con 200 uL del medio sin antiparasitarios (control) y con antiparasitarios en 10 concentraciones, desde 128 ug/mL hasta 0,25 ug/mL; luego de incubación a 36º C por 48 horas, la lectura por examen microscópico directo comparó el desarrollo en el medio control con el desarrollo en los pocitos conteniendo los antimicrobianos. Principales medidas de resultados: Concentración inhibitoria mínima (CIM). Resultados: Se encontró para B. hominis, con metronidazol CIM 90: 64 ug/mL y CIM 50: 2 ug/mL; para E. histolytica-E. dispar con metronidazol, CIM 90: 1 ug/mL y CIM 50: 0,5 ug/mL; para B. coli con tetraciclina, CIM 90: 0,25 ug/mL y CIM 50: 0,25 ug/mL. Conclusiones: Estos datos preliminares, a ser validados, muestran un comportamiento de las cepas de los parásitos mencionados, y es una alternativa de utilidad potencial (en caso de ser validada) para su aplicación en el tratamiento dirigido contra los protozoarios estudiados, así como en la vigilancia de resistencia.

Background: In vitro antiparasite susceptibility test for Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar y Balantidium coli, as well as intestinal protozoaria cultures, have rarely been reported in the medical literature. In vitro susceptibility tests for those parasites have not been published locally. Objectives: To determine an alternative in vitro antiparasite susceptibility test and its resistance to antimicrobials. Design: Prospective, descriptive study. Settings: Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Daniel Alcides Carrion", Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, and Instituto Especializado de Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru. Biologic material: Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar and Balantidium coli cultures against five antimicrobials. Methods: Sixty-four Blastocystis hominis, 16 Entamoeba histolytica-E. dispar and 16 Balantidium coli cultures were used against five antimicrobials: metronidazole, cotrimoxazole, tetracycline, furazolidone and ciprofloxacin. B. hominis, E. histolytica-E. dispar strains were cultured in modified PavlovaÆs media, from 500 feces samples of children with intestinal parasitosis diagnosis, and B. coli from pig feces. In vitro susceptibility tests were done by microculture methods in modified PavlovaÆs media, in 200 uL media little pools without antiparasites (control) and with antiparasites in 10 concentrations going from 128 ug/mL through 0,25 ug/mL; after incubation at 36º C for 48 hours, direct microscope exam reading compared development in control media and pools containing antimicrobials. Main outcome measures: Minimum inhibiting concentration (MIC). Results: For B. hominis with metronidazole CIM 90 was 64 ug/mL and CIM 50: 2 ug/mL; for E. histolytica-E. dispar with metronidazole, CIM 90: 1 ug/mL and CIM 50: 0.5 ug/mL; for B. coli with tetracicline, CIM 90: 0.25 ug/mL and CIM 50: 0.25 ug/mL. Conclusions: This preliminar information to be validated showed strains behavior of mentioned parasites, and represents a potential alternative use (in case of validation) in treatment of studied protozoa, as well as in resistance surveillance.

Protozoarios en aguas superficiales y muestras fecales de individuos de poblaciones rurales del municipio Montes, estado Sucre, Venezuela / Protozoans in superficial waters and faecal samples of individuals of rural populations of the Montes municipality, Sucre state, Venezuela

En el estado Sucre, el Río Manzanares se ve amenazado por actividades domésticas, agrícolas e industriales originadas por el hombre, convirtiéndose en factor de riesgo ambiental para sus habitantes. En este sentido se planteó evaluar la presencia de protozoarios en aguas superficiales de afluentes del Río Manzanares (Río Orinoco, Quebrada Seca, Río San Juan), municipio Montes, estado Sucre, Venezuela, así como también el análisis de muestras fecales de los habitantes de poblados aledaños. Se recolectaron muestras de aguas superficiales de los afluentes en estudio y fecales entre mayo 2006-abril 2007. Las muestras de aguas superficiales se procesaron con sedimentación por centrifugación, floculación y tinciones de Kinyoun y tricrómica; las muestras fecales se sometieron a examen directo con solución salina fisiológica y lugol, Ritchie modificado y las coloraciones antes mencionadas. Los protozoarios observados con mayor frecuencia en las aguas superficiales en los afluentes fueron: Amebas, Blastocystis sp., Endolimax sp., Chilomastix sp. y Giardia sp. Mientras que Blastocystis hominis, Endolimax nana y Entaomeba coli fueron los de mayor frecuencia observada en las muestras fecales. Los habitantes de Orinoco La Peña resultaron ser los más afectados por las infecciones parasitarias (77,60%), seguido de Río San Juan con 46,63%, y Quebrada Seca con 39,49%. La presencia de protozoarios patógenos y no patógenos en las aguas superficiales demuestra la contaminación fecal de los afluentes evaluados, por lo que representa un foco de infección permanente para los individuos que viven en las cercanías de estas aguas, esto se refleja por la observación de los mismos parásitos en ambas muestras.

In Sucre state, the Manzanares river is threatened by domestic, agricultural and industrial activities, becoming an environmental risk factor for its inhabitants. In this sense, the presence of protozoans in superficial waters of tributaries of the Manzanares river (Orinoco river, Quebrada Seca, San Juan river), Montes municipality, Sucre state, as well as the analysis of faecal samples from inhabitants of towns bordering these tributaries were evaluated. We collected faecal and water samples from may 2006 through april 2007. The superficial water samples were processed after centrifugation by the direct examination and floculation, using lugol, modified Kinyoun and trichromic colorations. Fecal samples where analyzed by direct examination with physiological saline solution and the modified Ritchie concentration method and using the other colorations techniques above mentioned. The most frequently observed protozoans in superficial waters in the three tributaries were: Amoebas, Blastocystis sp, Endolimax sp., Chilomastix sp. and Giardia sp. Whereas in faecal samples, Blastocystis hominis, Endolimax nana and Entaomeba coli had the greatest frequencies in the three communities. The inhabitants of Orinoco La Peña turned out to be most susceptible to these parasitic infections (77.60%), followed by San Juan River (46.63%) and Quebrada Seca (39.49%). The presence of pathogenic and nonpathogenic protozoans in superficial waters demonstrates the faecal contamination of the tributaries, representing a constant focus of infection for their inhabitants, inferred by the observation of the same species in both types of samples.

A Case of Pneumonia Caused by Balantidium coli in an Immunocompetent Patient / 대한임상미생물학회지

Balantidium coli is the only largest ciliated protozoon known to infect human and nonhuman primates. Balantidiasis is a zoonotic disease and is acquired by humans via fecal-oral contact between pigs and humans. The clinical manifestation includes mainly gastrointestinal symptoms; diarrhea and abdominal pain, but in rare cases extraintestinal spread to lungs has been reported. A few reports of B. coli were found in vaginal secretion, skin, gastric juice, and omentum, but there have been no previous isolated cases in the respiratory tract in Korea. We reported that the first case of pneumonia caused by B. coli in Korea in an immunocompetent 40-year-old woman who displayed symptoms of chest discomfort and cough, and was cured with metronidazole.

Intestinal parasitosis in nalout popularity, Western Libya

This paper studied gastrointestinal parasitosis in Nalout popularity. A hospital based study was done on a total of 800 stool samples from a private laboratory in Tigi city. The results showed an overall rate of 29.6%. Of these patients, 7.59% had double or triple parasitic infections. Children were more infected than adults. The parasites in a descending order were Entamoeba histolytica [2 1%], Enterobius vermicularis [7.5%], Giardia lamblia [2.5%], Balantidium coli [0.38%], and Hymenolepis nana [0.38%] A Sudanese immigrant employee had Strongyloides stercoralis larva in stool culture

A case of Balantidium coli in the gastric juice of a neonate / 대한주산의학회잡지

Balantidium coli is the only pathogenic ciliate parasitizing humans. Balantidium coli is widely distributed in hogs, particularly in warm and temperate climates, and in monkeys in the tropics. It is infrequently pathogenic for man. Balantidium coli is considered as a possible pathogen in immunocompromised patients. The infection fundamentally affects the colon and cause variable clinical pictures, from asymptomatic to serious dysenteric forms. Apart from intestinal involvement there have been reports on lung, liver, vagina infection by Balantidium coli. Balantidium coli were observed in the gastric juice of neonate. this is first report of asymptomatic balantidiasis in neonate.