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Štrkolcová G, Fiľakovská Bobáková D, Kaduková M, Schreiberová A, Klein D, Halán M, Urbančíková I. Intestinal parasitic infections in children from marginalised Roma communities: prevalence and risk factors. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:596. [PMID: 38890608 PMCID: PMC11184866 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09500-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal parasitic infections remain a significant global health issue, particularly affecting poor and marginalised populations. These infections significantly contribute to children's diseases, malnutrition, poor school performance, cognitive disorders, and future economic losses. This study aimed to explore and compare the occurrence of intestinal parasites in early childhood among the group of infants from the Slovak majority population and from marginalised Roma communities (MRCs). Furthermore, it aimed to explore the health complaints of children with and without intestinal parasitic infection in the past month and assess the effect of various risk factors on the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infection in infants from MRCs. METHODS We obtained cross-sectional data from mothers and stool samples of their children aged 13-21 months using the first wave of the longitudinal RomaREACH study. A total of 181 stools from infants were analysed: 105 infants from the Slovak majority population and 76 from MRCs. RESULTS Infants from MRCs are significantly more often infected by Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and Giardia duodenalis than their better-off peers from the majority population. Infection rates are 30% in infants from MRCs vs. 0% in the majority population (p < 0.001). Single and mixed infections were observed in children from MRCs. Infants with intestinal parasitic infections suffer significantly more often from various health complaints, particularly cough, stomach ache, irritability, and diarrhoea. Within MRCs, the risk of parasitic infections in infants is significantly increased by risk factors such as the absence of flushing toilets in households (OR = 4.17, p < 0.05) and contact with un-dewormed animals (OR = 3.61, p < 0.05). Together with the absence of running water in the household, these three factors combined increase the risk more than ten times (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Maintaining hygienic standards in conditions of socioeconomic deprivation in MRCs without running water and sewage in the presence of un-dewormed animals is problematic. These living conditions contribute to the higher prevalence of parasitic infections in children from MRCs, causing various health complaints and thus threatening their health and healthy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Štrkolcová
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Daniela Fiľakovská Bobáková
- Department of Health Psychology and Research Methodology, Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia.
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia, Czechia.
| | - Michaela Kaduková
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Schreiberová
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Daniel Klein
- Institute of Mathematics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Halán
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Ingrid Urbančíková
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
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Asperges E, Bagnarino J, Ancarani C, Baggini G, Filardo M, Monzillo V, Barbarini D, Bruno R, Paulli M, Baldanti F. A case of leprosy in a nonendemic country. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 143:107004. [PMID: 38479578 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Asperges
- S.C. Malattie Infettive I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Jessica Bagnarino
- S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Matteo Filardo
- U.O. Chirurgia Generale, Ospedale di Voghera, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vincenzina Monzillo
- S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Dipartimento di medicina interna e terapia medica - Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniela Barbarini
- S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Bruno
- S.C. Malattie Infettive I, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Dipartimento di scienze clinico-chirurgiche, diagnostiche e pediatriche, Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Marco Paulli
- S.C. Anatomia Patologica, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Fausto Baldanti
- S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico di Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Dipartimento di scienze clinico-chirurgiche, diagnostiche e pediatriche, Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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3
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Otiti-Sengeri J, Sube KLL, Siewe Fodjo JN, Otabil KB, Colebunders R. Chorioretinitis among Immigrant and Travellers. Comment on Mansour et al. Presumed Onchocerciasis Chorioretinitis Spilling over into North America, Europe and Middle East. Diagnostics 2023, 13, 3626. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:478. [PMID: 38472950 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14050478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
We read, with interest, the paper by Mansour et al [...].
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kenneth Bentum Otabil
- Department of Biological Science, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani P.O. Box 214, Ghana
| | - Robert Colebunders
- Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
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Barbiero A, Mazzi M, Mantella A, Trotta M, Rossolini GM, Antonelli A, Bordonaro P, Colao MG, Speciale AR, Di Benedetto T, Di Tommaso M, Mantengoli E, Petraglia F, Galli L, Pezzati M, Dani C, Caldes Pinilla MJ, Berni C, Dannaoui B, Albajar Viñas P, Bartoloni A, Zammarchi L. A Questionnaire Integrated with the Digital Medical Record Improved the Coverage of a Control Program for Congenital Chagas Disease in Tuscany, Italy. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11010154. [PMID: 36677446 PMCID: PMC9866674 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11010154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The leading route of Chagas disease transmission in nonendemic countries is congenital. However, policies concerning screening, prevention, and management of congenital Chagas disease are rare in these settings. Since 2012, serological screening for Chagas disease should be provided for pregnant women at risk in Tuscany, Italy according to a Regional resolution. Due to difficulties in the implementation, in November 2019, a checklist aimed at identifying pregnant women at risk for Chagas disease was introduced in digital clinical records at Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the "Chagas checklist", data about the number of deliveries by women at risk and their screening coverage between 2012 and June 2022 were collected. Out of 1348 deliveries by women at risk, 626 (47%) Trypanosoma cruzi serology tests were performed during the study period. The annual screening coverage increased from an average of 40.3% between 2012 and 2019 to 75.7% between 2020 and June 2022, underlining the big impact of the checklist. Four Chagas disease serological tests out of 626 (0.6%) resulted positive, corresponding to 2 affected women. No cases of congenital transmission occurred. The study showed that a simple digital tool led to a tangible improvement in the coverage of the screening program; its application in a setting where digital charts are available will contribute to the control and elimination of congenital Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Barbiero
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Martina Mazzi
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Antonia Mantella
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Tuscany Regional Referral Center for Tropical Diseases, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Trotta
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Tuscany Regional Referral Center for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Antonelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizia Bordonaro
- Hospital General Laboratory, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Colao
- Clinical Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Rosa Speciale
- Department of Health Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology Branch, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Tullio Di Benedetto
- Department of Health Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology Branch, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Di Tommaso
- Department of Health Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology Branch, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mantengoli
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Luisa Galli
- Department of Health Sciences University of Florence, Paediatric Infectious Diseases Division, Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Pezzati
- Pediatric Unit, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, AUSL Toscana Centro, Via Antella, 58, Bagno a Ripoli, 50012 Florence, Italy
| | - Carlo Dani
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Careggi University Hospital of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Maria José Caldes Pinilla
- Tuscany Regional Center for Global Health, Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Cecilia Berni
- Citizenship Rights and Social Cohesion Directorate, Tuscany Region, Via Camillo Cavour, 2, 50122 Florence, Italy
| | - Bassam Dannaoui
- Technological Innovation in Clinical-Assistance Activities Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Pedro Albajar Viñas
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Avenue Appia 20, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Tuscany Regional Referral Center for Tropical Diseases, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Tuscany Regional Referral Center for Tropical Diseases, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Tuscany Regional Referral Center for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Modi G, Borchi B, Giaché S, Campolmi I, Trotta M, Di Tommaso M, Strambi N, Bartoloni A, Zammarchi L. Emerging Infectious Diseases in Pregnant Women in a Non-Endemic Area: Almost One Out of Four Is at Risk. Pathogens 2021; 10:56. [PMID: 33435140 PMCID: PMC7827164 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10010056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We report the results of a targeted testing strategy for five emerging infectious diseases (Chagas disease, human T-lymphotropic virus 1 infection, malaria, schistosomiasis, and Zika virus infection) in pregnant women accessing an Italian referral centre for infectious diseases in pregnancy for unrelated reasons. The strategy is based on a quick five-question questionnaire which allows the identification of pregnant women at risk who should be tested for a specific disease. One hundred and three (24%) out of 429 pregnant women evaluated in a 20 month period were at risk for at least one emerging infectious disease. Three (2.9%, all from sub-Saharan Africa) out of 103 at-risk women resulted in being affected (one case of Plasmodium falciparum malaria, two cases of schistosomiasis) and were appropriately managed. Prevalence of emerging infectious disease was particularly high in pregnant women from Africa (three out of 25 pregnant women tested, 12%). The proposed strategy could be used by health care professionals managing pregnant women in non-endemic setting, to identify those at risk for one of the five infection which could benefit for a targeted test and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Modi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Beatrice Borchi
- Referral Centre for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.B.); (S.G.); (I.C.); (M.T.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Susanna Giaché
- Referral Centre for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.B.); (S.G.); (I.C.); (M.T.)
| | - Irene Campolmi
- Referral Centre for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.B.); (S.G.); (I.C.); (M.T.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Trotta
- Referral Centre for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.B.); (S.G.); (I.C.); (M.T.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Di Tommaso
- Department of Health Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Branch, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.D.T.); (N.S.)
| | - Noemi Strambi
- Department of Health Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Branch, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (M.D.T.); (N.S.)
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (A.B.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Referral Centre for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (A.B.)
- Referral Centre for Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy; (B.B.); (S.G.); (I.C.); (M.T.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Referral Centre for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
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6
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Manciulli T, Serraino R, D'Alessandro GL, Cattaneo L, Mariconti M, Vola A, Taccari F, Narra R, De Vito G, Trecarichi EM, Mazzitelli M, Matera G, Casulli A, Marascio N, Brunetti E, Tamarozzi F, Torti C. Evidence of Low Prevalence of Cystic Echinococcosis in the Catanzaro Province, Calabria Region, Italy. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 103:1951-1954. [PMID: 32975181 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is one of the neglected tropical diseases recognized by the WHO. Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato affects more than 1 million people worldwide and is responsible for high costs in the healthcare system. A clear knowledge of the prevalence of CE and its clinical characteristics could have an important impact on the approach to its diagnosis and to the public health planning of treatment and control interventions. We performed a prevalence study in four municipalities of Catanzaro Province, South Italy. This area is considered to be at high risk of CE because of ovine breeding. We screened by abdominal ultrasound 2,426 volunteers, four of whom had abdominal CE. Given the need for prevention and control programs for CE in endemic areas of Italy, a detailed mapping of prevalence of CE, to complement data obtained through hospital discharge records, appears imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Manciulli
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,PhD School of Experimental Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Serraino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Gian Luca D'Alessandro
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Letizia Cattaneo
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Naples-Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Mara Mariconti
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ambra Vola
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Taccari
- Institute of Clinical Infectious Disease, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Narra
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Vito
- Public Health Agency of the Catanzaro Province, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Enrico Maria Trecarichi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Mazzitelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Matera
- Department of Health Sciences, Unit of Clinical Microbiology, 'Magna Graecia' University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Adriano Casulli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, European Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Foodborne and Neglected Parasitic Diseases Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Department of Infectious Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Epidemiology, Detection and Control of Cystic and Alveolar Echinococcosis, Foodborne and Neglected Parasitic Diseases Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Nadia Marascio
- Department of Health Sciences, Unit of Clinical Microbiology, 'Magna Graecia' University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Enrico Brunetti
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Tamarozzi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Epidemiology, Detection and Control of Cystic and Alveolar Echinococcosis, Foodborne and Neglected Parasitic Diseases Unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Torti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, "Magna Graecia" University, Catanzaro, Italy
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Riccò M, Vezzosi L, Ranzieri S, Balzarini F, Mezzoiuso AG, Vaccaro FG. Understanding leprosy in a nonendemic area: a pilot study on knowledge, attitudes, beliefs of medical professionals from North-Western Italy. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2020; 91:e2020187. [PMID: 33525280 PMCID: PMC7927465 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i4.8810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Describing knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about leprosy amongst Medical Professionals in a nonendemic area (Parma Province, North-Western Italy). Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried among a sample of Medical Professionals (MP; No. 242) during June and July 2019 as an on-line self-administered questionnaire including 21 true/false items about epidemiology, diagnosis, and clinical characteristics of leprosy. Effectors of better knowledge status (KS) and higher risk perception (RP) were assessed through calculation of respective multivariate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) in two logistic regression analysis models. Results: A total of 102 questionnaires were retrieved (participation rate 42.1%; 67.6% of respondents <50 year-old). Of them, 10.8% had previously interacted with at least one leprosy case. Knowledge status (KS) was unsatisfying (59.7% correct answers), and also RP was relatively low, as 91.2% of them acknowledged leprosy as a severe disease, but only 42.2% identified leprosy as highly communicable. Knowledge gaps affected particularly understanding of epidemiology and non-dermatological issues. Moreover, 30.4% of respondents ignored that a treated leprosy case may remain in the community before disease eradication. The main effector of KS was having interacted with a leprosy case (OR 4.881 95%CI 1.245-36.905), while RP was negatively associated with a better KS (OR 0.094 95%CI 0.027-0.334), and working as general practitioner (OR 0.133 95%CI 0.031-0.562). Conclusions: While individual expertise of European MP on leprosy slowly disappears, significant knowledge gaps and the high share of misconceptions collectively stress that refresher training may improve early diagnosis and management of incident cases. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Azienda USL di Reggio EmiliaV.le Amendola n.2 - 42122 REServizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL)Dip. di Prevenzione.
| | - Luigi Vezzosi
- Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale di Cremona, Direzione Medica Ospedale di Cremona.
| | - Silvia Ranzieri
- School of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43123 Parma, Italy .
| | - Federica Balzarini
- Università "Vita e Salute" San Raffaele, School of Public Health - Milano.
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Tilli M, Botta A, Bartoloni A, Corti G, Zammarchi L. Hospitalization for Chagas disease, dengue, filariasis, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, strongyloidiasis, and Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis, Italy, 2011-2016. Infection 2020; 48:695-713. [PMID: 32418191 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-020-01443-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze epidemiology and burden of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Italy. METHODS We used Hospital Discharge Records and number of residents in Italy to calculate number and rate of hospitalization for Chagas disease, dengue, filariasis, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, strongyloidiasis, Taenia solium taeniasis, and cysticercosis by sex, citizenship group, and region in the period 2011-2016. RESULTS 7195 hospitalizations for NTDs were retrieved, accounting for 7375 diagnoses, 60% in Italians and 40% in foreigners. Male-to-female ratio was 2; the age group more commonly affected was 25-44 years (32.5%). The most common diagnoses were leishmaniasis (34%), schistosomiasis (29%), strongyloidiasis (12%), Chagas disease (8%), and dengue (8%). Average yearly hospitalization rate per 100,000 residents for all NTDs was 2.05, 1.33, and 10.39 in general population, Italians, and foreign citizens, respectively. Hospitalization rates higher than 100 per 100,000 subjects were found in citizens from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and Bolivia. CONCLUSIONS NTDs have a not negligible burden in Italy. The most clinically relevant NTDs in Italy are leishmaniasis and schistosomiasis, followed by strongyloidiasis, Chagas disease, and dengue. Cystic echinococcosis, that was not included in the analysis since a similar study on this disease was recently published, should also be listed among the leading NTD in Italy. While schistosomiasis has its highest burden on population coming from highly endemic areas such as SSA, leishmaniasis is especially relevant in Italian-born residents of southern regions. Education at university and post-graduate levels, to increase the awareness of healthcare professionals on these topics, as well as targeted public health interventions (such as screening or presumptive treatment in high-risk groups), are an asset to improve clinical management and control of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tilli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Annarita Botta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
- Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany Region, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Corti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
- Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany Region, Careggi University and Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
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9
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Ottino L, Buonfrate D, Paradies P, Bisoffi Z, Antonelli A, Rossolini GM, Gabrielli S, Bartoloni A, Zammarchi L. Autochthonous Human and Canine Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in Europe: Report of a Human Case in An Italian Teen and Systematic Review of the Literature. Pathogens 2020; 9:E439. [PMID: 32503315 PMCID: PMC7350350 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9060439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Autochthonous human and canine strongyloidiasis is reported in Europe but is unclear whether the transmission of infection still occurs. We report a previously unpublished human case in an Italian teen and perform a systematic review of literature on autochthonous human and canine strongyloidiasis in Europe to investigate the current dynamic of transmission. Overall, 109 papers published after 1987 were included and one previously unpublished Italian case was added. Eighty case reports were retrieved and 42 of them (52.5%) had severe strongyloidiasis. Most cases were diagnosed in Spain, Italy and France. The median age was 58, the most represented age group was 61-70 years, 11 patients were under 30, and 7 of them were diagnosed after 2000. Epidemiological studies on human strongyloidiasis showed prevalence ranging from 0.56% to 28%. Overall, agriculture work, mine work and walking barefoot were the most commonly reported risk factors for infection. Canine strongyloidiasis was reported mainly in Italy (68 cases), but a few cases occurred also in Iceland, Finland, England, Germany, France, Switzerland, Russia, Slovakia, Romania and Greece. Autochthonous strongyloidiasis is still reported in Europe and sporadic transmission still occurs. Health care professionals should be aware of this issue to identify infected subjects and avoid adverse outcomes, especially in immunosuppressed patients. Further investigations are needed to clarify the zoonotic transmission of this nematode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Ottino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy; (D.B.); (Z.B.)
| | - Paola Paradies
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation, Veterinary Section, Campus of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy; (D.B.); (Z.B.)
| | - Alberto Antonelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Simona Gabrielli
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy; (L.O.); (A.A.); (G.M.R.); (A.B.)
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
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10
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Autochthonous liver cystic hydatid: Past or actual French shepherd's disease? IDCases 2020; 21:e00843. [PMID: 32509529 PMCID: PMC7264046 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2020.e00843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Autochthonous hydatidosis in France and western Europa are uncommon since the beginning of the 21st century. We report here an authentic indigenous cystic echinococcosis case in a French shepherd. The risk of remerging pathology should not be neglected and measures to interrupt parasite transmission are still relevant.
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11
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Gianchecchi E, Montomoli E. The enemy at home: leishmaniasis in the Mediterranean basin, Italy on the focus. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 18:563-577. [DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1751611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuele Montomoli
- VisMederi S.r.l, Siena, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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12
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Zammarchi L, Gobbi F, Angheben A, Spinicci M, Buonfrate D, Calleri G, De Paola M, Bevilacqua N, Carrara S, Attard L, Vanino E, Gulletta M, Festa E, Iacovazzi T, Grimaldi A, Sepe A, Salomone Megna A, Gaiera G, Castagna A, Parodi P, Albonico M, Bisoffi Z, Castelli F, Olliaro P, Bartoloni A. Schistosomiasis, strongyloidiasis and Chagas disease: the leading imported neglected tropical diseases in Italy. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5678667. [PMID: 31840757 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, an increasing number of individuals affected by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) have been observed in Italy, due to migration, international travels and climate changes. Reliable data on the current NTD epidemiology in Italy and the health system preparedness on this issue are not available. METHODS We report the results of a survey on selected NTDs (schistosomiasis, strongyloidiasis, echinococcosis, Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, cysticercosis, filariasis and scabies) in nine Italian sentinel centres, in order to investigate their occurrence throughout the country and identify which ones are a priority for public health interventions, development of protocols for case management, and training activities. To explore the preparedness of the centres, we investigate the availability of specific diagnostic tools and drugs, needed for the management of the most common NTDs. We also reviewed and summarized the available national policies, recommendations and guidelines on NTDs in Italy. RESULTS Overall, 4123 NTDs cases were diagnosed in nine Italian centres within a 7-year period (2011-2017). Schistosomiasis and strongyloidiasis were the most common NTDs, accounting for about one-third each of all the diagnosed cases, followed by Chagas disease. The number of cases showed a significant trend to increase over time, mainly due to foreign-born subjects. Serology for Schistosoma spp. and Strongyloides stercoralis was available in seven and five centres, respectively. Agar plate stool culture for S. stercoralis was available in three sites. Ivermectin and praziquantel were always available in six centres. Six national policies, recommendations and guidelines documents were available, but for the most part, they are not fully implemented yet. CONCLUSIONS This survey showed how some NTDs, such as schistosomiasis and strongyloidiasis, are becoming more common in Italy, due to multiple components. A list of seven key actions was proposed, in order to improve diagnosis, management and control of NTDs in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Florence, 37024, Italy
| | - Federico Gobbi
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, I.R.C.C.S., Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Andrea Angheben
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, I.R.C.C.S., Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Michele Spinicci
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Florence, 37024, Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, I.R.C.C.S., Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona 37024, Italy
| | - Guido Calleri
- Ospedale Amedeo di Savoia, ASL Città di Torino, Turin, 10149, Italy
| | - Mirella De Paola
- Ospedale Amedeo di Savoia, ASL Città di Torino, Turin, 10149, Italy
| | - Nazario Bevilacqua
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases I.R.C.C.S. L. Spallanzani, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Stefania Carrara
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases I.R.C.C.S. L. Spallanzani, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Luciano Attard
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Elisa Vanino
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Maurizio Gulletta
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and Spedali Civili General Hospital, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Elena Festa
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and Spedali Civili General Hospital, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Tiziana Iacovazzi
- U.O.C. Malattie Infettive ASL BA, P.O. Fallacara, Triggiano, Bari 70019, Italy
| | - Anna Grimaldi
- U.O.C. Laboratorio di Ricerche Chimico-Cliniche e Microbiologiche ASL BA, P.O. Fallacara, Triggiano, Bari 70019, Italy
| | | | - Angelo Salomone Megna
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Gaetano Rummo Hospital, Benevento, 82100, Italy
| | - Giovanni Gaiera
- Department of Infectious Diseases, S. Raffaele Hospital, Milano, 00144, Italy
| | - Antonella Castagna
- Department of Infectious Diseases, S. Raffaele Hospital, Milano, 00144, Italy
| | | | - Marco Albonico
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, I.R.C.C.S., Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona 37024, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, 10123, Italy
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, I.R.C.C.S., Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona 37024, Italy.,Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Francesco Castelli
- University Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Brescia and Spedali Civili General Hospital, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Piero Olliaro
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University and Hospital, Florence, 37024, Italy
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13
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Riccò M, Vezzosi L, Balzarini F, Mezzoiuso AG, Ranzieri S, Vaccaro FG, Odone A, Signorelli C. Epidemiology of leprosy in Italy (1920 - 2019): a comprehensive review on existing data. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2019; 90:7-14. [PMID: 31517884 PMCID: PMC7233659 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v90i9-s.8695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Incidence of leprosy in Italy has declined steadily over the last century, but available evidence remains fragmentary. Our review aims to summarize available data on the epidemiology of leprosy cases in Italy. METHODS The following keywords were used to explore PubMed and Embase: leprosy, Hansen's disease, (Mycobacterium) leprae, Italy, without any chronological restriction. RESULTS We identified a total of 39 reports, including 7 national reports, 11 international reports, 20 case reports. Notified leprosy cases were: 839 between 1925 and 1948; 434 between 1955 and 1979; 76 cases for the decade 1980-1989; 112 between 1990 and 1999; 62 between 2000 and 2009, and a total of 25 cases since 2009. Since 2003, 53% of all cases occurred in illegal residents. Focusing on individual cases, latency between early signs/symptoms and a proper diagnosis ranged between 2 and 20 years in 52.1% of individual cases. CONCLUSION Imported cases of leprosy are responsible for most leprosy incidence in Italy, and social stigma, the unfamiliarity of healthcare professionals with such disorders, and difficulties of some high-risk groups to be appropriately assessed hint to a possible under-diagnosis. Professionals should be made more aware of the potential for leprosy incidence among patients from countries where the disease is endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Azienda USL di Reggio EmiliaV.le Amendola n.2 - 42122 REServizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza negli Ambienti di Lavoro (SPSAL)Dip. di Prevenzione.
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14
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Marotta M, Dallolio L, Toni G, Toni F, Leoni E. A case of imported leprosy in Italy: Implications for surveillance by Public Health Services of Local Health Authorities. Travel Med Infect Dis 2019; 31:101402. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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15
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Antinori S, Ridolfo AL, Giacomelli A, Bonazzetti C, Corbellino M, Galli M. Chagas disease in Italy: the study's contribution of Italian researchers. Panminerva Med 2019; 61:464-472. [PMID: 31362479 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.19.03723-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease (CD) is an emerging infection in Italy as the consequence of the huge immigration from Latin American countries observed during the last ten-fifteen years. However, the interest of Italian researchers on CD dates back to the '80-90s of the last century with studies conducted in collaboration with Brazilian and Argentinian colleagues by Italian cardiologists and pathologists. Moreover, the first demonstration of the existence in the pre-Columbian America of Chagas disease in a Peruvian mummy was made by a group of Italian paleopathologists. Seroprevalence studies performed between 2010-2014 in Negrar (Verona), Bergamo, Milan, Florence and Rome shows Trypanosoma cruzi infection ranging from 3.9% to 17.1% with people coming from Bolivia as the most affected. As observed in Latin America about 30% of screened subjects in Italy are affected by cardiac or digestive forms of CD. More than 20% of subjects treated with benznidazole discontinued it permanently due to adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spinello Antinori
- Luigi Sacco Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy - .,III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy -
| | - Anna L Ridolfo
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Giacomelli
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Bonazzetti
- Luigi Sacco Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Mario Corbellino
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Galli
- Luigi Sacco Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
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16
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The diagnosis and treatment of urogenital schistosomiasis in Italy in a retrospective cohort of immigrants from Sub-Saharan Africa. Infection 2019; 47:447-459. [PMID: 30666616 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-019-01270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate ultrasound and praziquantel to, respectively, assess and reduce urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS)-associated morbidity in migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). METHODS Migrants from SSA with UGS attending three Italian centres for tropical diseases during 2011-2016 were retrospectively enrolled. Data on clinical symptoms, routine laboratory, parasitological tests, and ultrasound reported as per the WHO-Niamey protocol were collected at baseline and at available follow-up visits after treatment with praziquantel 40 mg/kg/day for 3 days. RESULTS One hundred and seventy patients with UGS were enrolled and treated with praziquantel. Baseline ultrasonography showed urinary tract abnormalities in 115/169 patients (68%); the mean global Schistosoma haematobium score was 2.29 (SD 2.84, IQR 0-2), the mean urinary bladder intermediate score 1.75 (SD 1.73, IQR 0-2), and the mean upper urinary tract intermediate score 0.54 (SD 2.37, IQR 1-10). Abnormalities were more common among the 111 (65%) who were symptomatic (p < 0.02; OR 2.53; 95% CI 1.19-5.35). Symptoms started in 94/111 (85%) before arriving (median 63 months, IQR 12-119). At follow-up, we observed a significant reduction in the prevalence of UGS-related symptoms, blood, urine, and ultrasound abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS Our study results support the use of ultrasound and praziquantel for assessing and reducing UGS-associated morbidity in migrants. Health-seeking behaviour, diagnostic, and treatment delays contribute to the advanced pathology and qualified treatment success. To ensure earlier treatment, based on our findings, clinical experience, and available literature, we propose an algorithm for the diagnosis and clinical management of UGS. Multicentre studies are needed to improve the management of subjects with UGS in non-endemic countries.
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17
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Coinfections between Persistent Parasitic Neglected Tropical Diseases and Viral Infections among Prisoners from Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. J Trop Med 2018; 2018:7218534. [PMID: 30532789 PMCID: PMC6247427 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7218534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In Swiss prisons, more than 70% of detained people are foreigners and over one-third originate from sub-Saharan Africa or Latin America. These two regions are endemic for various tropical diseases and viral infections, which persist after migration to nonendemic countries. Parasitic infections (schistosomiasis; strongyloidiasis) and cooccurrent viral infections (HIV, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV)) are especially of concern for clinical care but have been neglected in empirical research. These diseases often remain silent for years before causing complications, especially if they occur concomitantly. Our research aimed to study the prevalence rates and coinfections of two neglected tropical diseases, namely, Strongyloides stercoralis and Schistosoma sp. and viral infections among sub-Saharan Africans (SSA) and Latin Americans (LA) in Switzerland's largest pretrial prison. We carried out a cross-sectional prevalence study using a standardized questionnaire and serological testing. Among the 201 participants, 85.6% were SSA and 14.4% LA. We found the following prevalence ratios: 3.5% of HIV (4.1% in SSA, 0% in LA), 12.4% of chronic HBV (14.5% in SSA, 0% in LA), 2.0% of viraemic HCV (1.7% in SSA, 3.4% in LA), and 8.0% of strongyloidiasis (8.1% in SSA, 6.9% in LA). The serological prevalence of schistosomiasis among SSA was 20.3% (not endemic in Latin America). Two infections were simultaneously detected in SSA: 4.7% were coinfected with schistosomiasis and chronic HBV. Four other coinfections were detected among SSA: schistosomiasis-HIV, HIV-chronic HBV, HIV-HCV, and schistosomiasis-strongyloidiasis. To conclude, the high prevalence rates of persistent viral and parasitic infections and their potential coinfections among SSA and LA detained migrants highlight the need to implement control strategies and programs that reach people in detention centers in nonendemic countries.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With increasing international travel and mass global population migration, clinicians in nonendemic countries must be familiar with imported neglected tropical diseases including onchocerciasis, which is commonly known as 'river blindness'. RECENT FINDINGS Imported onchocerciasis manifests differently in travelers compared with migrants from endemic areas and is likely underdiagnosed in both groups. Recent clinical studies confirm that eosinophilia is not a sensitive marker for Onchocerca volvulus, with one-third of patients having a normal eosinophil count. Novel diagnostics measuring antibodies to multiple recombinant O. volvulus antigens maintain a high sensitivity while improving specificity compared with conventional pan-filarial serologic testing. A 6-week course of doxycycline has macrofilaricidal activity through Wolbachia depletion and may be useful in nonendemic areas in addition to standard serial ivermectin. SUMMARY Recent studies characterizing distinct clinical presentations in travelers and migrants may enable clinicians to better recognize imported onchocerciasis. Although novel diagnostics have improved specificity, most remain restricted to tropical disease reference laboratories and to date there is no marker of cure. Prolonged doxycycline treatment may reduce the need for serial ivermectin, though more potent short-course macrofilaricidal drugs are being developed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas B. Nutman
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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19
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Murdoch ME. Onchodermatitis: Where Are We Now? Trop Med Infect Dis 2018; 3:E94. [PMID: 30274490 PMCID: PMC6160948 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed3030094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Onchocerciasis causes debilitating pruritus and rashes as well as visual impairment and blindness. Prior to control measures, eye disease was particularly prominent in savanna areas of sub-Saharan Africa whilst skin disease was more common across rainforest regions of tropical Africa. Mass drug distribution with ivermectin is changing the global scene of onchocerciasis. There has been successful progressive elimination in Central and Southern American countries and the World Health Organization has set a target for elimination in Africa of 2025. This literature review was conducted to examine progress regarding onchocercal skin disease. PubMed searches were performed using keywords 'onchocerciasis', 'onchodermatitis' and 'onchocercal skin disease' over the past eight years. Articles in English, or with an English abstract, were assessed for relevance, including any pertinent references within the articles. Recent progress in awareness of, understanding and treatment of onchocercal skin disease is reviewed with particular emphasis on publications within the past five years. The global burden of onchodermatitis is progressively reducing and is no longer seen in children in many formerly endemic foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele E Murdoch
- Department of Dermatology, West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust, Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD18 0HB, UK.
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20
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Carrai P, Zammarchi L, Pollina LE, Giordani L, Mangano V, Iapoce R, Rinaldi F, Bartoloni A, Filipponi F, De Simone P, Bruschi F. Post-transplant liver graft schistosomiasis in a migrant from Sub-Saharan Africa. Transpl Infect Dis 2018; 20:e12950. [PMID: 29890019 DOI: 10.1111/tid.12950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We report a case of post-transplant liver graft infection with Schistosoma spp in a migrant from sub-Saharan Africa transplanted for HBV-related cirrhosis and with undiagnosed schistosomiasis pre-transplantation. The occurrence of tropical diseases in non-endemic areas warrants screening protocols for organ donors and recipients with a history of exposure in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Carrai
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Pisa Medical School Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Luca Giordani
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S., University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Mangano
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S., University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Riccardo Iapoce
- Infectious Diseases, University of Pisa Medical School Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Rinaldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Referral Center for Tropical Diseases of Tuscany, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Franco Filipponi
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Pisa Medical School Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo De Simone
- Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Pisa Medical School Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Bruschi
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S., University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,Programma Monitoraggio delle Malattie Parassitarie, AOU Pisana, Pisa, Italy
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21
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22
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Zammarchi L, Vellere I, Stella L, Bartalesi F, Strohmeyer M, Bartoloni A. The diagnosis of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Italy: reply. Intern Emerg Med 2017; 12:725-726. [PMID: 28470412 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-017-1672-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Zammarchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università di Firenze, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
- SOD Malattie Infettive e Tropicali, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Iacopo Vellere
- Scuola di Scienze della Salute Umana, Corso di Studio in Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Firenze, Florence, Italy
| | - Leonardo Stella
- Scuola di Scienze della Salute Umana, Corso di Studio in Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Firenze, Florence, Italy
| | - Filippo Bartalesi
- SOD Malattie Infettive e Tropicali, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Marianne Strohmeyer
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università di Firenze, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università di Firenze, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
- SOD Malattie Infettive e Tropicali, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Careggi, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134, Florence, Italy.
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23
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Poddighe D, Gaviglio I, Trabatti C, Marseglia GL. The diagnosis of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Italy: comment. Intern Emerg Med 2017; 12:721-723. [PMID: 28361354 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-017-1655-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Poddighe
- Department of Pediatrics, ASST Melegnano e Martesana, via Pandina 1, Vizzolo Predabissi (MI), Italy.
- Departement of Pediatrics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Ivan Gaviglio
- Departement of Pediatrics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Trabatti
- Departement of Pediatrics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Marseglia
- Departement of Pediatrics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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24
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Falcone M. Neglected tropical diseases in Europe: an emerging problem for health professionals. Intern Emerg Med 2017; 12:423-424. [PMID: 28315147 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-017-1648-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Falcone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Policlinico Umberto I, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale dell'Università 37, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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