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McNeilly H, Mutebi F, Thielecke M, Reichert F, Banalyaki MB, Arono R, Mukone G, Feldmeier H. Management of very severe tungiasis cases through repeated community-based treatment with a dimeticone oil formula: A longitudinal study in a hyperendemic region in Uganda. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:303-308. [PMID: 38279810 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13974] [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] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Tungiasis (sand flea disease) is a neglected tropical disease that is endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. Tungiasis causes pain, mobility restrictions, stigmatisation and reduced quality of life. Very severe cases with hundreds of sand fleas have been described, but treatment of such cases has never been studied systematically. During a larger community-based tungiasis control programme in a hyperendemic region in Karamoja, northeastern Uganda, 96 very severe tungiasis cases were identified and treated with the dimeticone formula NYDA®. They were repeatedly followed-up and treated again when necessary. The present study traces tungiasis frequency, intensity and morbidity among these 96 individuals over 2 years. At baseline, very severe tungiasis occurred in all age groups, including young children. Throughout the intervention, tungiasis frequency decreased from 100% to 25.8% among the 96 individuals. The overall number of embedded sand fleas in this group dropped from 15,648 to 158, and the median number of embedded sand fleas among the tungiasis cases decreased from 141 to four. Walking difficulties were reported in 96.9% at the beginning and in 4.5% at the end of the intervention. Repeated treatment with the dimeticone formula over 2 years was a successful strategy to manage very severe cases in a hyperendemic community. Treatment of very severe cases is essential to control the spread and burden of tungiasis in endemic communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah McNeilly
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Teaching Organisation, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Francis Mutebi
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Marlene Thielecke
- Charité Center for Global Health, Institute of International Health, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Reichert
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mike B Banalyaki
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rebecca Arono
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala, Uganda
| | - George Mukone
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
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Thielecke M, McNeilly H, Mutebi F, Banalyaki MB, Arono R, Wiese S, Reichert F, Mukone G, Feldmeier H. High Level of Knowledge about Tungiasis but Little Translation into Control Practices in Karamoja, Northeastern Uganda. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:425. [PMID: 37755887 PMCID: PMC10537667 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8090425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tungiasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that can cause significant suffering and disability. Health promotion is an important pillar in NTD control programs, assuming that better knowledge contributes to reduced risk behavior and reduced risk of infection. The study objective was to assess tungiasis-related knowledge and its translation into control practices in a rural and highly endemic setting in Karamoja, Northeastern Uganda. We applied a mixed-methods design on household and community level. A semi-quantitative questionnaire on knowledge, practices, and attitudes (KAP) regarding tungiasis was administered to 1329 individuals with the main caring responsibilities in the household. Additionally, eight community dialogue meetings were held and analyzed. Overall, knowledge of tungiasis in humans was high but knowledge of tungiasis in animals was low. Most questionnaire respondents knew the causative agent and clinical presentations of tungiasis in humans, risk factors, and preventive measures. This tungiasis-related knowledge was translated into simple prevention measures. However, adequate tungiasis control was impeded due to a lack of resources, such as access to water and effective medical treatment. In conclusion, health promotion campaigns should be integrated with support towards adequate tungiasis control measures, such as provision of safe treatment, hardening of non-solid floors in the houses, and improved access to water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Thielecke
- Charité Center for Global Health, Institute of International Health, Charité University Medicine, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Hannah McNeilly
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
| | - Francis Mutebi
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala P.O. Box 24461, Uganda
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7062, Uganda
| | - Mike B. Banalyaki
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala P.O. Box 24461, Uganda
| | - Rebecca Arono
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala P.O. Box 24461, Uganda
| | - Susanne Wiese
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité University Medicine, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Reichert
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - George Mukone
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala P.O. Box 24461, Uganda
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité University Medicine, 12203 Berlin, Germany
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McNeilly H, Thielecke M, Mutebi F, Banalyaki M, Reichert F, Wiese S, Feldmeier H. Tungiasis Stigma and Control Practices in a Hyperendemic Region in Northeastern Uganda. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8040206. [PMID: 37104332 PMCID: PMC10144114 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8040206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases are known to be highly stigmatized conditions. This study investigates tungiasis-related stigma and control practices in the impoverished Napak District in rural northeastern Uganda, where tungiasis is hyperendemic and effective treatment is unavailable. We conducted a questionnaire survey with the main household caretakers (n = 1329) in 17 villages and examined them for tungiasis. The prevalence of tungiasis among our respondents was 61.0%. Questionnaire responses showed that tungiasis was perceived as a potentially serious and debilitating condition and that tungiasis-related stigma and embarrassment were common. Among the respondents, 42.0% expressed judging attitudes, associating tungiasis with laziness, carelessness, and dirtiness, and 36.3% showed compassionate attitudes towards people with tungiasis. Questionnaire responses further indicated that people made an effort to keep their feet and house floors clean (important tungiasis prevention measures), but lack of water was a common problem in the area. The most frequent local treatment practices were hazardous manual extraction of sand fleas with sharp instruments and application of various and sometimes toxic substances. Reliable access to safe and effective treatment and water are therefore key to reducing the need for dangerous treatment attempts and breaking the vicious cycle of tungiasis stigma in this setting marked by poverty.
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Mutebi F, McNeilly H, Thielecke M, Reichert F, Wiese S, Mukone G, Feldmeier H. Prevalence and Infection Intensity of Human and Animal Tungiasis in Napak District, Karamoja, Northeastern Uganda. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8020111. [PMID: 36828527 PMCID: PMC9963877 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Tungiasis is an important but highly neglected cause of morbidity in resource-poor communities in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa. Data upon which implementation of control measures can be based are scarce. Before piloting an integrated tungiasis control program in three parishes of Napak district, Uganda, a cross-sectional survey involving the systematic examination of humans and domestic mammals was implemented to establish the occurrence patterns of tungiasis. The study population was 5482 residents, of which 4035 (73.6%) participated in the study. The prevalence of tungiasis in humans was 62.8% (95% CI: 61.3-64.3%), with slightly more males than females affected (p = 0.01). Age-specific prevalence and intensity of human tungiasis followed an S-curve pattern, with children of 5-14 years and the elderly (≥60 years) being the most affected. Half of all lesions (50%) had been manipulated by sharp objects. The prevalence of tungiasis in animals was lower (14.2%, 95% CI: 10.9-18.0) than that of humans (p < 0.001). Animal tungiasis occurred in decreasing order of frequency in pigs (80%), dogs (24%), goats (16.3%), cats (8.1%) and sheep (4.9%). In conclusion, human tungiasis was highly prevalent but animal infections were comparatively few in the study area. Nevertheless, effective control measures should be based on One Health principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Mutebi
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7062, Uganda
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala P.O. Box 24461, Uganda
- Correspondence: or
| | - Hannah McNeilly
- Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Marlene Thielecke
- Charité Center for Global Health, Institute of International Health, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Reichert
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Wiese
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - George Mukone
- Innovations for Tropical Disease Elimination (IFOTRODE), Kampala P.O. Box 24461, Uganda
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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Martins ACT, Martins LPF, Timbó RV, Bezerra NVF, Urdapilleta AAA, Filho FMP, Gomes CM. Measuring educational neglect using the Q method: A model based on the burden of disseminated tungiasis. FRONTIERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 2:1003102. [PMID: 38455315 PMCID: PMC10911034 DOI: 10.3389/fepid.2022.1003102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Background A paramount factor in the control of neglected tropical diseases from both medical and social aspects is education. New strategies must be constantly pursued to test and provide educational information related to diseases affecting vulnerable populations. We applied the Q method as a model to measure educational neglect based on the burden of disseminated tungiasis. Methods Using a saturation method for sample size calculation, we recruited students and healthcare professionals to evaluate and classify 27 statements related to the prevention, control and treatment of tungiasis. After quantitative analysis, the Q method was applied based on the paired use of the centroid method and Varimax rotation, and 4 factors were extracted representing the main sets of viewpoints among the participants. Results We included 119 healthcare professionals with different academic degrees. Statements classified by specialists with a + agreement were also classified as a + agreement by most of the participants. However, we detected 5 important disagreements related to the topical treatment of tungiasis and control of the disease in the environment and animals. The Q method showed that almost no consensus was detected for four statements. The classification of each statement was not related to the participants' academic degree. Conclusions There is significant educational neglect related to tungiasis prevention and treatment in healthcare sciences in Brazil. We conclude that the Q method may be an interesting strategy alone or associated with quantitative strategies for detecting educational limitations related to neglected diseases. In countries where neglected diseases are endemic, a detailed study evaluating the quality of education related to these diseases must be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Renata Velozo Timbó
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ciro Martins Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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Abrha S, Tesfaye W, Thomas J. Therapeutic Potential of Tea Tree Oil for Tungiasis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 105:1157-1162. [PMID: 34731831 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-0427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Tungiasis (sand flea disease) is a neglected tropical disease caused by penetration of female sand fleas, Tunga penetrans, into a person's skin usually in their feet. The disease inflicts immense pain and suffering on millions of people, particularly children. The condition is most prevalent in Latin America, the Caribbean, and sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, there is no standard drug treatment for tungiasis. The available treatment options are fairly limited and unrealistic to use in endemic areas; as a result, in desperation, the affected people do more harm to themselves by extracting the fleas with non-sterile instruments, further exposing themselves to secondary bacterial infections and/or transmission of diseases such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, or HIV. This highlights the urgent need for simpler, safer, and effective treatment options for tungiasis. Tea tree oil (TTO) has long been used as an antiseptic with extensive safety and efficacy data. The evidence on parasiticidal properties of TTO against ectoparasites such as head lice, mites, and fleas is also compelling. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current tungiasis treatment challenges in endemic settings and highlight the potential role of TTO in the treatment of tungiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Abrha
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Wubshet Tesfaye
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Jackson Thomas
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Harvey TV, Linardi PM, Carlos RSA, Heukelbach J. Tungiasis in domestic, wild, and synanthropic animals in Brazil. Acta Trop 2021; 222:106068. [PMID: 34331896 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tungiasis is an ectoparasitic skin disease of humans and warm-blooded animals caused by fleas of the genus Tunga (Jarocki, 1938). Dogs, cats, pigs, and synanthropic rodents are the main animal reservoirs. Of the 14 known species, 12 are found in Latin America and, among these, eight are found in Brazil, including the two zoonotic species Tunga penetrans and Tunga trimamillata. Tunga penetrans predominates among humans and Brazilian pets, where the dog is the most affected species, and its presence is a risk factor associated with the disease in humans. Tunga spp. are widely distributed throughout the national territory, with T. penetrans being the most dispersed and the most frequent in animals from endemic areas, especially in underprivileged communities. Infections in animals, associated with inadequate management, favor the spread and perpetuation of the disease. Intense injuries can result in sequelae and serious clinical conditions, compromising the health, welfare, and productivity of animals, as well as leading to death. Health precariousness, lack of control and neglect in the management of populations of domestic and synanthropic animals, poor hygiene habits of individuals, lack of information from both the population and related professionals, lack of effective treatment, and of perception of tungiasis as a disease are among the main challenges for the control of this parasitosis. As recommended for other zoonotic Neglected Tropical Diseases, strategies based on the concept of One Health can guarantee more effective results in the fight against human and animal tungiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiani Vitor Harvey
- Autonomous Veterinarian, 16 Aberdeen Avenue, Cambridge, MA, Zipcode 02138, United States.
| | - Pedro Marcos Linardi
- UFMG. Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Caixa Postal 486, Avenida Antônio Carlos, 6627, Campus UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, CEP 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Renata Santiago Alberto Carlos
- UESC. Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade. Rodovia Jorge Amado Km 16. Bairro Salobrinho. Ilhéus, Bahia, CEP 45662-900, Brazil.
| | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, CEP 60.430-140, Brazil.
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Flajoliet N, Bertolotti A. Potential use of dermoscopy in atypical tungiasis. J Travel Med 2021; 28:6270857. [PMID: 33969417 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taab072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Tungiasis is an ectoparasitic skin disease, endemic in the Caribbeans, South America and sub-Saharan Africa. Usually, the dark central pore is the most significant sign to confirm the diagnosis. We described an original presentation of a lateral genital opening tungiasis, highlighting the importance of dermoscopic examination when a patient returns from an endemic zone of this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolwen Flajoliet
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses - Dermatologie, CHU Réunion, Saint Pierre, La Réunion, France
| | - Antoine Bertolotti
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses - Dermatologie, CHU Réunion, Saint Pierre, La Réunion, France.,Inserm CIC1410, CHU Réunion, Saint Pierre, La Réunion, France
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Tardin Martins AC, de Brito AR, Kurizky PS, Gonçalves RG, Santana YRT, de Carvalho FCA, Gomes CM. The efficacy of topical, oral and surgical interventions for the treatment of tungiasis: A systematic review of the literature. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009722. [PMID: 34415904 PMCID: PMC8409605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tungiasis is a neglected disease caused by Tunga penetrans that can be complicated by secondary infections and local tissue destruction. Adequate treatment is important, especially in vulnerable populations; potential treatment options proposed range from surgical extraction to the use of oral and topical medications. We aimed to perform a systematic review to assess the efficacy of topical, oral and surgical interventions for the treatment of tungiasis. Methodology/Principal findings The present review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021234741). On September 1, 2020, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scielo and LILACS BVS. We included clinical trials and longitudinal observational studies that evaluated any topical, systemic or mechanical treatment for tungiasis. We used the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) Tool for Randomized Trials for clinical trial analysis. Qualitative and quantitative descriptive syntheses were performed. Our search strategy resulted in 3376 references. Subsequently, 2568 titles/abstracts and 114 full texts were screened. We finally included 19 articles; 9 were classified as clinical trials. Two and 3 articles presented low and some RoB, respectively, according to the tool. Only two articles tested the efficacy of oral medications (niridazole, ivermectin), with discouraging results. Six clinical trials evaluated topical products for the treatment of tungiasis; 2 evaluated dimeticone-based compounds and reported positive results in lesion reduction and cure. None reported significant adverse reactions. Surgical extraction was evaluated only in observational studies. Conclusions/Significance We conclude that, although surgical extraction is the most commonly used treatment, there is sufficient evidence supporting the use of occlusive agents, especially manufactured dimeticone-based products. Tungiasis is a disease caused by Tunga penetrans that affects regions with low socioeconomic status and a lack of proper sanitation. The disease usually has a self-limiting course or can be cured by simple extraction, but complications are not uncommon. In vulnerable populations, such as indigenous communities, children and people with disseminated tungiasis, the development of new treatment strategies is essential for the prevention of undesirable secondary outcomes. We performed a comprehensive systematic review of the literature by searching the most important scientific databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scielo and LILACS BVS. We aimed to assess the efficacy of topical, oral and surgical interventions for the treatment of tungiasis. We included 19 articles, 9 of which were classified as clinical trials. Six clinical trials evaluated topical products for the treatment of tungiasis; 2 evaluated dimeticone-based compounds and reported positive results in lesion reduction and cure. None reported significant adverse reactions. We concluded that, although mechanical extraction is the most commonly used treatment, there is sufficient evidence supporting the use of occlusive agents, especially manufactured dimeticone-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Tardin Martins
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Amanda Ramos de Brito
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Boa Vista, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Shu Kurizky
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Gurgel Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Núcleo de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ciro Martins Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Núcleo de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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Abrha S, Christenson JK, McEwen J, Tesfaye W, Vaz Nery S, Chang AY, Spelman T, Kosari S, Kigen G, Carroll S, Heukelbach J, Feldmeier H, Bartholomaeus A, Daniel M, Peterson GM, Thomas J. Treatment of tungiasis using a tea tree oil-based gel formulation: protocol for a randomised controlled proof-of-principle trial. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047380. [PMID: 34326048 PMCID: PMC8323357 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tungiasis (sand flea disease or jigger infestation) is a neglected tropical disease caused by penetration of female sand fleas, Tunga penetrans, in the skin. The disease inflicts immense pain and suffering on millions of people, particularly children, in Latin America, the Caribbean and sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, there is no standard treatment for tungiasis, and a simple, safe and effective tungiasis treatment option is required. Tea tree oil (TTO) has long been used as a parasiticidal agent against ectoparasites such as headlice, mites and fleas with proven safety and efficacy data. However, current data are insufficient to warrant a recommendation for its use in tungiasis. This trial aims to generate these data by comparing the safety and efficacy of a 5% (v/w) TTO proprietary gel formulation with 0.05% (w/v) potassium permanganate (KMnO4) solution for tungiasis treatment. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This trial is a randomised controlled trial (RCT) in primary schools (n=8) in South-Western Kenya. The study will include school children (n=88) aged 6-15 years with a confirmed diagnosis of tungiasis. The participants will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive a 3-day two times a day treatment of either 5% TTO gel or 0.05% KMnO4 solution. Two viable embedded sandflea lesions per participant will be targeted and the viability of these lesions will be followed throughout the study using a digital handheld microscope. The primary outcome is the proportion of observed viable embedded sand fleas that have lost viability (non-viable lesions) by day 10 (9 days after first treatment). Secondary outcomes include improvement in acute tungiasis morbidities assessed using a validated severity score for tungiasis, safety assessed through adverse events and product acceptability assessed by interviewing the participants to rate the treatment in terms of effectiveness, side effects, convenience, suitability and overall satisfaction. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial protocol has been reviewed and approved by the University of Canberra Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC-2019-2114). The findings of the study will be presented at scientific conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619001610123); PACTR202003651095100 and U1111-1243-2294.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Abrha
- Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Julia K Christenson
- Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - John McEwen
- Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Wubshet Tesfaye
- Pharmacy, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Susana Vaz Nery
- The Public Health Interventions Research Program, The Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity in Society, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aileen Y Chang
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Tim Spelman
- Public Health, Burnet Institute International Health Research Group, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sam Kosari
- Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Gabriel Kigen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Moi University School of Medicine, Eldoret, Central, Kenya
| | - Simon Carroll
- Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Global School Partners, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Department of Community Health, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection Immunology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrew Bartholomaeus
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mark Daniel
- Centre for Research and Action in Public Health, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | | | - Jackson Thomas
- Pharmacy, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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Larson PS, Ono M, Changoma M, Goto K, Kaneko S, Moji K, Minakawa N. Presence of dogs and proximity to a wildlife reserve increase household level risk of tungiasis in Kwale, Kenya. Trop Med Health 2021; 49:54. [PMID: 34225821 PMCID: PMC8256484 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-021-00338-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tungiasis is a ectopic skin disease caused by some species of fleas in the Tunga genus, most notably T. penetrans. The disease afflicts poor and marginalized communities in developing countries. Transmission of tungiasis comprises a complex web of factors including domesticated animals and wildlife. This research explores animal and environmental risk factors for tungiasis in an area adjacent to a wildlife reserve in Kwale, Kenya. Methods A two-stage complex sampling strategy was used. Households were selected from three areas in and around Kwale Town, Kenya, an area close to the Kenyan Coast. Households were listed as positive if at least one member had tungiasis. Each household was administered a questionnaire regarding tungiasis behaviors, domesticated animal assets, and wild animal species that frequent the peridomiciliary area. Associations of household tungiasis were tests with household and environmental variables using regression methods. Results The study included 319 households. Of these, 41 (12.85%) were found to have at least one person who had signs of tungiasis. There were 295 (92.48%) households that possessed at least one species of domesticated animal. It was reported that wildlife regularly come into the vicinity of the home 90.59% of households. Presence of dogs around the home (OR 3.85; 95% CI 1.84; 8.11) and proximity to the park were associated with increased risk for tungiasis infestation in humans in a multivariate regression model. Conclusions Human tungiasis is a complex disease associated with domesticated and wild animals. Canines in particular appear to be important determinants of household level risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Larson
- Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine-Kenya Medical Research Institute (NUITM-KEMRI) project, Kenya, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, Japan. .,University of Michigan School of Natural Resources and Environment, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Masanobu Ono
- Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine-Kenya Medical Research Institute (NUITM-KEMRI) project, Kenya, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Mwatasa Changoma
- Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine-Kenya Medical Research Institute (NUITM-KEMRI) project, Kenya, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, Japan.,Chemi Chemi, Kwale, Kenya
| | - Kensuke Goto
- Division of Health and Safety Sciences Education, Osaka Kyoiku University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kaneko
- Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine-Kenya Medical Research Institute (NUITM-KEMRI) project, Kenya, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Moji
- Nagasaki University School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health (TMGH), Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Noboru Minakawa
- Nagasaki University Institute of Tropical Medicine-Kenya Medical Research Institute (NUITM-KEMRI) project, Kenya, Nagasaki, Nagasaki, Japan
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Abrha S, Heukelbach J, Peterson GM, Christenson JK, Carroll S, Kosari S, Bartholomeus A, Feldmeier H, Thomas J. Clinical interventions for tungiasis (sand flea disease): a systematic review. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2021; 21:e234-e245. [PMID: 34237261 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(20)30853-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Tungiasis (sand flea disease) is an epidermal parasitic skin disease occurring in resource-limited communities. There is no standard treatment for tungiasis, and available treatment options are scarce. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review aimed to assess randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating interventions for tungiasis. We systematically searched databases including MEDLINE (EBSCOhost), CENTRAL, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, SciELO, LILACS and Embase (Scopus) for RCTs in any language, from inception of the databases until June 12, 2021. RCTs exploring preventive and therapeutic interventions for tungiasis were eligible. We used the revised Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool to assess the risk of bias and Jadad scale to quantify the methodological quality of the RCTs. Of the 1839 identified records, only eight RCTs involving 808 participants were included, and several methodological deficiencies were identified in most of the trials. Trial interventions included: oral drugs niridazole and ivermectin and topical interventions of ivermectin lotion, metrifonate lotion, thiabendazole lotion, thiabendazole ointment, dimeticones (NYDA), and a neem seed and coconut oils-based mixture for treatment and coconut oil-based lotion (Zanzarin) for prevention. The coconut oil-based lotion for prevention and dimeticones for treatment of tungiasis have displayed the most promise. Most of the RCTs included in this study had low methodological quality. There is a clear unmet need for high-quality RCTs examining safe and effective prevention and treatment alternatives of tungiasis in endemic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Abrha
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Jorg Heukelbach
- Postgraduate Program of Public Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Gregory M Peterson
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, ACT, Australia; College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | | | - Sam Kosari
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Andrew Bartholomeus
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Daimantina Institute, University of Queensland, Wolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection Immunology, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jackson Thomas
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Bruce, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
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Abstract
La tungiasis es una ectoparasitosis endémica en Latinoamérica y está asociada a factores de riesgo como la ruralidad, la pobreza y la convivencia con animales. Popayán, una ciudad al suroccidente de Colombia, fue históricamente afectada por la tungiasis, tanto así que a sus habitantes los apodan "patojos" debido a la forma de caminar de sus habitantes infestados por la pulga. Hoy la enfermedad se creía eliminada. Se presenta el caso de un niño de 12 años procedente del área urbana de Popayán, que consultó por lesiones papulares de bordes circulares, centro negruzco y halo hiperqueratósico en ambos pies, de un mes de evolución. Por los hallazgos clínicos se sospechó tungiasis y se le administró ivermectina. Las lesiones se removieron quirúrgicamente y se enviaron para análisis parasitológico, el cual confirmó la presencia de Tunga penetrans. La evolución del paciente fue satisfactoria. La Secretaría de Salud Municipal de Popayán inspeccionó el domicilio del paciente y encontró perros migrantes del Pacífico colombiano en sus alrededores, algunos con lesiones sospechosas de tungiasis. Se documenta, así, el resurgimiento de esta enfermedad en el área urbana, probablemente debido a la migración de animales desde las zonas rurales. Es importante reconocer la existencia de la pulga en zonas rurales y urbanas, hacer el diagnóstico médico y reportar los casos a los entes de vigilancia. Estas acciones permitirán ofrecer un apropiado manejo y control sanitario de esta ectoparasitosis desatendida en humanos y animales.
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