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D’Abbrunzo I, Procida G, Perissutti B. Praziquantel Fifty Years on: A Comprehensive Overview of Its Solid State. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:27. [PMID: 38258039 PMCID: PMC10821272 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the entire progress made on the anthelmintic drug praziquantel, focusing on the solid state and, therefore, on anhydrous crystalline polymorphs, amorphous forms, and multicomponent systems (i.e., hydrates, solvates, and cocrystals). Despite having been extensively studied over the last 50 years, new polymorphs and the greater part of their cocrystals have only been identified in the past decade. Progress in crystal engineering science (e.g., the use of mechanochemistry as a solid form screening tool and more strategic structure-based methods), along with the development of analytical techniques, including Synchrotron X-ray analyses, spectroscopy, and microscopy, have furthered the identification of unknown crystal structures of the drug. Also, computational modeling has significantly contributed to the prediction and design of new cocrystals by considering structural conformations and interactions energy. Whilst the insights on praziquantel polymorphs discussed in the present review will give a significant contribution to controlling their formation during manufacturing and drug formulation, the detailed multicomponent forms will help in designing and implementing future praziquantel-based functional materials. The latter will hopefully overcome praziquantel's numerous drawbacks and exploit its potential in the field of neglected tropical diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Beatrice Perissutti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Piazzale Europa 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy (G.P.)
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Trippler L, Knopp S, Welsche S, Webster BL, Stothard JR, Blair L, Allan F, Ame SM, Juma S, Kabole F, Ali SM, Rollinson D, Pennance T. The long road to schistosomiasis elimination in Zanzibar: A systematic review covering 100 years of research, interventions and control milestones. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2023; 122:71-191. [PMID: 37657854 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Zanzibar is among the few places in sub-Saharan Africa where interruption of Schistosoma transmission seems an achievable goal. Our systematic review identifies and discusses milestones in schistosomiasis research, control and elimination efforts in Zanzibar over the past 100 years. The search in online databases, libraries, and the World Health Organization Archives revealed 153 records published between May 1928 and August 2022. The content of records was summarised to highlight the pivotal work leading towards urogenital schistosomiasis elimination and remaining research gaps. The greatest achievement following 100 years of schistosomiasis interventions and research is undoubtedly the improved health of Zanzibaris, exemplified by the reduction in Schistosoma haematobium prevalence from>50% historically down to<5% in 2020, and the absence of severe morbidities. Experiences from Zanzibar have contributed to global schistosomiasis guidelines, whilst also revealing challenges that impede progression towards elimination. Challenges include: transmission heterogeneity requiring micro-targeting of interventions, post-treatment recrudescence of infections in transmission hotspots, biological complexity of intermediate host snails, emergence of livestock Schistosoma species complicating surveillance whilst creating the risk for interspecies hybridisation, insufficient diagnostics performance for light intensity infections and female genital schistosomiasis, and a lack of acceptable sanitary alternatives to freshwater bodies. Our analysis of the past revealed that much can be achieved in the future with practical implementation of integrated interventions, alongside operational research. With continuing national and international commitments, interruption of S. haematobium transmission across both islands is within reach by 2030, signposting the future demise of urogenital schistosomiasis across other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Trippler
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Stefanie Knopp
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Bonnie L Webster
- Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom; London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Fiona Allan
- Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom; London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Shaali Makame Ame
- Neglected Diseases Programme, Zanzibar Ministry of Health, Lumumba, Unguja, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Saleh Juma
- Neglected Diseases Programme, Zanzibar Ministry of Health, Mkoroshoni, Pemba, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Fatma Kabole
- Neglected Diseases Programme, Zanzibar Ministry of Health, Lumumba, Unguja, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Said Mohammed Ali
- Public Health Laboratory - Ivo de Carneri, Wawi, Chake Chake, Pemba, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - David Rollinson
- Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom; London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; Global Schistosomiasis Alliance, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Pennance
- Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom; London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR, United States.
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Ncube MV, Kabuyaya M, Chimbari MJ. Patient journey and resources mapping to implement a praziquantel mass drug administration program for children aged 5 years and below in resource-limited settings. Syst Rev 2022; 11:227. [PMID: 36271455 PMCID: PMC9585827 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-022-02087-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The early childhood development of millions of children in some low- and medium-income countries may be compromised by schistosomiasis infections contracted at the age of 5 years and below. Currently, there are no standard guidelines for treating schistosomiasis in children that are 5 years and younger using praziquantel (PZQ), the only drug that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends for treating schistosomiasis. The review is on processes and resources involved in the treatment of schistosomiasis in children aged 5 years and below. METHODS An electronic search for peer-reviewed articles published in the period from January 2011 to August 2021 was done in the Academic Search Complete, CINAHL with Full Text, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, and MEDLINE databases via EBSCOHost and Google Scholar databases. The search targeted journals that described the treatment of schistosomiasis in children 5 years and below using praziquantel. RESULTS Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The patient journey for treating schistosomiasis in children aged 5 years old and below using PZQ included the following activities: enrolment of the children into the treatment program; clinical examination; diagnosis; taking anthropometric measurements; feeding the children, making the PZQ palatable to the children; administration of PZQ; and monitoring of side effects. There was also a variation in the resources used to treat children aged 5 and below for schistosomiasis. CONCLUSIONS A PZQ mass drug administration program for children aged 5 years old and below in endemic areas should exclude the diagnosis of schistosomiasis before treatment. The resources required in the treatment process should be affordable, and should not require skills and maintenance resources that are beyond those that are available at the primary healthcare level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhlengi Vella Ncube
- School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Medical Affairs Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Muhubiri Kabuyaya
- School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Moses John Chimbari
- School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Nalugwa A, Tukahebwa EM, Olsen A, Nuwaha F. Regression of Schistosoma mansoni associated morbidity among Ugandan preschool children following praziquantel treatment: A randomised trial. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259338. [PMID: 34780499 PMCID: PMC8592404 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Preschool children suffer from morbidity attributable to Schistosoma mansoni. We compared a single and double dose of praziquantel treatment on the regression of S. mansoni associated morbidity in children less than six years in Uganda. We measured the sizes of spleen and liver as well as liver fibrosis before treatment and 8 months after treatment among children who either received one dose (n = 201) or two doses (n = 184) of praziquantel (standard oral dose of 40 mg/kg body weight). Heamoglobin measurements were also taken. Overall, liver enlargement reduced from 52.2% (95% CI (Confidence interval) 45.1, 59.3) to 17.9% (95% CI 12.9, 23.9) with a single dose and from 48.4 (95% CI 40.9, 55.8) to 17.9% (95% CI 12.7, 24.3) with a double dose and there was no significant difference between the changes in proportion of children with enlarged liver between the two treatment groups. The proportion of children with enlarged spleen was not significantly reduced in the group treated with either one or two doses, 47.8% (95% CI 41.7, 54.9) to 45.3% (95% CI 38.3, 52.4) and 48.4% (95% CI 40.9,55.8) to 40.8% 95% CI 33.6, 48.2), respectively. Liver fibrosis detected among children getting single dose (n = 9) or double doses (n = 13) resolved after treatment with praziquantel. The number of children with low heamoglobin significantly reduced from 51.2% (95% CI 44.1, 58.3) to 0.5% (0.2, 0.8) and 61.4% (95% CI 53.9,68.5) to 1.1% (95% CI 0.1, 3.9) after single and double dose treatment, respectively. These results suggest that there is no evidence of a difference in effect between one dose of praziquantel and two doses in reversing morbidity attributable to S. mansoni among children less than six years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen Nalugwa
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Annette Olsen
- Parasitology and Aquatic Diseases, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fred Nuwaha
- Disease Control and Prevention, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Kalinda C, Mindu T, Chimbari MJ. A systematic review and meta-analysis quantifying schistosomiasis infection burden in pre-school aged children (PreSAC) in sub-Saharan Africa for the period 2000-2020. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244695. [PMID: 33373405 PMCID: PMC7771669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Following the adoption of the World Health Assembly Resolution WHA 65.21 and Neglected Tropical Diseases road map 2021-2030, schistosomiasis control programmes have shifted from morbidity control to disease elimination. However, several gaps continue to be observed in the implementation of control programmes with certain age groups omitted from these campaigns increasing health inequalities and risks of reinfections to previously treated groups. We used the Inverse Variance Heterogeneity (IVhet) model to estimate the prevalence of schistosomiasis infection among preschool-aged children. METHODS We did a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on schistosomiasis in sub-Saharan Africa for the period January 1, 2000 to November 30, 2020. Quantitative data for cases of schistosomiasis infection were extracted, including country and region where the studies were done, year of publication and specific schistosome species observed. The IVhet model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence estimate (PPE), the heterogeneity and publication bias. RESULTS We screened 2601 articles to obtain 47 eligible studies containing quantitative data on preschool-aged children. Of the selected studies, 44.7% (n = 22) were from East Africa while the least number of studies obtained (2.1%, n = 1) was from Central Africa. 21712 subjects were screened for infection due to Schistosoma spp; 13924 for S. mansoni and 7788 for S. haematobium. The PPE for schistosomiasis among PreSAC was 19% (95% CI: 11-28). Infection due to S. mansoni (IVhet PPE: 22% (95% CI: 9-36) was higher than that due to S. haematobium (15%; 95% CI: 6-25). A Luis Furuya-Kanamori index of 1.83 indicated a lack of publication bias. High level of heterogeneity was observed (I2 > 90%) and this could not be reduced through subgroup analysis. CONCLUSION Schistosomiasis infection among pre-school aged children 6 years old and below is high. This indicates the importance of including this age group in treatment programmes to reduce infection prevalence and long-term morbidities associated with prolonged schistosome infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chester Kalinda
- University of Namibia, Katima Mulilo, Namibia
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tafadzwa Mindu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Moses John Chimbari
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Nampijja M, Lubyayi L, Tumusiime J, Nabulime J, Kizindo R, Kabuubi P, Sanya RE, Kabagenyi J, Akurut H, Muhangi L, Webb EL, Alcock K, Elliott AM. Effect of intensive versus standard anthelminthic treatment on growth and cognition among children living in a high Schistosoma mansoni transmission setting: a study nested within a cluster-randomised trial. Wellcome Open Res 2020. [DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.16092.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Schistosomiasis and other worm infections have been associated with growth and cognitive impairments; however, whether treatment reverses these effects is uncertain. Moreover, mechanisms linking these infections to cognition are not clear. We aimed to compare growth and cognitive benefits of intensive versus standard anthelminthic treatment in school-aged-children and explore processes that might be involved. We hypothesised that intensive treatment would have greater benefits than standard treatment. Methods: The study was nested within a cluster-randomised trial of either quarterly single-dose praziquantel of 40mg/kg to treat Schistosoma mansoni plus triple dose albendazole of 400mg (intensive treatment) to treat soil-transmitted worms including Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm and Trichuris trichiura, or annual single-dose praziquantel 40mg/kg plus six-monthly single-dose albendazole 400mg (standard treatment) conducted in the Koome islands in Lake Victoria, Uganda (ISRCTN47196031). Children aged 5-9 years (N=384) were assessed on primary outcomes (height, weight and eight measures of cognitive ability), worm infection, and proposed mediators of worm effects (cytokines, iron status, physical activity) at one year (intensive n=85; standard n=64) and at two years (intensive n=158; standard n=128) of the intervention. Linear regression was used to examine intervention effects on height, weight and cognitive performance. Linear mixed effects models were used to study changes in growth and cognitive performance between the two arms across the two time-points. Results: Intensive treatment resulted in lower Schistosoma mansoni prevalence than standard treatment (at one year, 41% versus 70%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=0.24, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.49; at two years, 39% versus 69%; aOR=0.27; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.43) but there were no significant differences in growth and cognitive outcomes at either time-point. Worms and treatment showed no consistent association with the proposed mediators of worm effects. Conclusion: Reduction in worm burden may not improve growth and cognitive outcomes in high S. mansoni transmission settings. Possible implications are discussed.
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7
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Tushabe JV, Lubyayi L, Sserubanja J, Kabuubi P, Abayo E, Kiwanuka S, Nassuuna J, Kaweesa J, Corstjens P, van Dam G, Sanya RE, Ssenyonga W, Tukahebwa EM, Kabatereine NB, Elliott AM, Webb EL. Does Intensive Treatment Select for Praziquantel Resistance in High-Transmission Settings? Parasitological Trends and Treatment Efficacy Within a Cluster-Randomized Trial. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa091. [PMID: 32296727 PMCID: PMC7148002 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Praziquantel mass drug administration (MDA) is recommended in schistosomiasis-endemic areas. Animal models demonstrate Schistosoma parasite resistance to praziquantel after repeated exposure. Methods We conducted a parasitological survey in 26 fishing communities in Uganda after 4 years of quarterly (13 communities) or annual (13 communities) praziquantel MDA, with Schistosoma infection detected by single-stool-sample Kato-Katz. A test of cure was done in participants who were positive on both urine circulating cathodic antigen test and 3-sample Kato-Katz. We calculated cure rates (CRs) and egg reduction rates (ERRs) based on 3-sample Kato-Katz and infection intensity using worm-specific circulating anodic antigen (CAA) in blood, comparing these between quarterly and annually treated participants. Results Single-sample Kato-Katz Schistosoma mansoni prevalence was 22% in 1,056 quarterly treated participants and 34% in 1,030 annually treated participants (risk ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40 to 0.94). Among 110 test-of-cure participants, CRs were 65% and 51% in annually and quarterly treated villages, respectively (odds ratio, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.27 to 1.58); ERRs were 94% and 81% (difference, –13%; 95% CI, –48% to 2%). There was no impact of quarterly vs annual praziquantel on S. mansoni by CAA. Conclusions In this schistosomiasis hot spot, there was little evidence of decreased praziquantel efficacy. However, in the absence of alternative therapies, there remains a need for continued vigilance of praziquantel efficacy in the MDA era.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Vianney Tushabe
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Joel Sserubanja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Prossy Kabuubi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Elson Abayo
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Samuel Kiwanuka
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jacent Nassuuna
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - James Kaweesa
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Paul Corstjens
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Govert van Dam
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - William Ssenyonga
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Research Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Zanolla D, Hasa D, Arhangelskis M, Schneider-Rauber G, Chierotti MR, Keiser J, Voinovich D, Jones W, Perissutti B. Mechanochemical Formation of Racemic Praziquantel Hemihydrate with Improved Biopharmaceutical Properties. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:pharmaceutics12030289. [PMID: 32210129 PMCID: PMC7151222 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12030289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ) is the first-line drug used against schistosomiasis, one of the most common parasitic diseases in the world. A series of crystalline structures including two new polymorphs of the pure drug and a series of cocrystals of PZQ have been discovered and deposited in the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD). This work adds to the list of multicomponent forms of PZQ a relevant example of a racemic hemihydrate (PZQ-HH), obtainable from commercial PZQ (polymorphic Form A) through mechanochemistry. Noteworthy, the formation of the new hemihydrate strongly depends on the initial polymorphic form of PZQ and on the experimental conditions used. The new PZQ-HH has been fully characterized by means of HPLC, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Hot-Stage Microscopy (SEM), Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), FT-IR, polarimetry, solid-state NMR (SS-NMR), solubility and intrinsic dissolution rate (IDR), and in vitro tests on Schistosoma mansoni adults. The crystal structure was solved from the powder X-ray diffraction pattern and validated by periodic-DFT calculations. The new bioactive hemihydrate was physically stable for three months and showed peculiar biopharmaceutical features including enhanced solubility and a double intrinsic dissolution rate in water in comparison to the commercially available PZQ Form A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Zanolla
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, P.le Europa 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (D.Z.); (D.H.)
| | - Dritan Hasa
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, P.le Europa 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (D.Z.); (D.H.)
| | - Mihails Arhangelskis
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, 1 Pasteura Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Gabriela Schneider-Rauber
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, CB2-1EW Cambridge, UK; (G.S.-R.); (W.J.)
| | - Michele R. Chierotti
- Department of Chemistry and NIS Centre, University of Torino, V. Giuria 7, 10125 Torino, Italy;
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel; Switzerland;
- Universität Basel, Petersplatz 1, P.O. Box, CH-4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dario Voinovich
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, P.le Europa 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (D.Z.); (D.H.)
- Correspondence: (D.V.); (B.P.); Tel.: +39-040-558-3106 (D.V. & B.P.)
| | - William Jones
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, CB2-1EW Cambridge, UK; (G.S.-R.); (W.J.)
| | - Beatrice Perissutti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, P.le Europa 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (D.Z.); (D.H.)
- Correspondence: (D.V.); (B.P.); Tel.: +39-040-558-3106 (D.V. & B.P.)
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9
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Odeniran PO, Omolabi KF, Ademola IO. Epidemiological dynamics and associated risk factors of S. haematobium in humans and its snail vectors in Nigeria: a meta-analysis (1983-2018). Pathog Glob Health 2020; 114:76-90. [PMID: 32182201 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2020.1728164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma haematobium, a major pathogen of urogenital schistosomiasis, has been reported to be affecting an estimated 30 million people in Nigeria. Current national estimates of S. haematobium and its cercariae, in humans and snail vectors respectively, are lacking in Nigeria, hence systematic meta-analyses were conducted to understand the disease dynamics in the endemic country over a period of 35 years based on publications from five databases (AJOL, Ovid MEDLINE, Google Scholar, PubMed and Web of Science). The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRIMSA) checklist were used as the standard guide for the analyses. The prevalence of S. haematobium in human hosts in Nigeria using quality effects model was 32.1% (27.3-37.2), while schistosome cercariae were observed at 3.5% (0.0-11.9), 18.2% (4.7-36.8) and 18.7% (0.0-46.1) and for B. forskalii, Bulinus globosus and B. truncatus, respectively. The high report of schistosome cercariae indicates the continuous transmission of S. haematobium in humans especially with individuals who have frequent contact with freshwater. Heterogeneity of subgroup analyses (regions, zones, sex, age groups, diagnostic techniques) and risk factors (pathological signs, occupation, water sources, anthropogenic activities, treatment) were determined. The result showed prevalence of an endemic moderate class infection that has been linked to several risk factors. Therefore, there is need for increased awareness on the prevalence, transmission routes and treatment strategies to mitigate the disease in this endemic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Olalekan Odeniran
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde Foluke Omolabi
- Molecular Bio-computation and Drug Design Laboratory, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Ncube MV, Chimbari MJ. A prospective risk assessment of the implementation of a schistosomiasis preventive mass drug administration for children aged five years and below in the uMkhanyakude district of KwaZulu-Natal. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:685. [PMID: 31590663 PMCID: PMC6781343 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4507-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is endemic in the uMkhanyakude district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The South Africa Department of Health (DoH) has decided to implement a schistosomiasis preventive mass drug administration program in all affected parts of the country. Quality management is part of the strategic objectives of the treatment program. We conducted a risk assessment and developed guidelines for the quality management of a schistosomiasis preventive treatment program for children aged 5 years and below in the uMkhanyakude District of KwaZulu-Natal. Methods We conducted a scenario planning exercise by interviewing 10 child health experts from the uMkhanyakude Health District to establish potential risks associated with a planned schistosomiasis preventive control treatment program for children aged 5 years old and below. The risks were analyzed using a modified Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA). An FMEA table was produced to guide the quality management of the planned schistosomiasis preventive control treatment program for children aged 5 years and below in the uMkhanyakude Health District. Results We identified potential risks, failure modes and possible failure corrective/preventive measures in the following activities that would be part of the mass treatment of children aged 5 years and below infected with schistosomiasis in the uMkhanyakude District. These included enrolment of children into the treatment program; general health checks; weight and height measurements; administration of drugs; reporting of side effects and monitoring and evaluation. Conclusion We were able to use FMEA guide quality management and identify potential risks associated with the planned schistosomiasis preventive treatment program for children aged 5 years old and below in the uMkhanyakude District of KwaZulu-Natal. The FMEA for this program will be useful to the quality management of schistosomiasis preventive treatment programs for this age group in other similar settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhlengi Vella Ncube
- School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu- Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Moses John Chimbari
- School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu- Natal, Durban, South Africa
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11
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Sanya RE, Nkurunungi G, Hoek Spaans R, Nampijja M, O’Hara G, Kizindo R, Oduru G, Kabuubi Nakawungu P, Niwagaba E, Abayo E, Kabagenyi J, Zziwa C, Tumusiime J, Nakazibwe E, Kaweesa J, Muwonge Kakooza F, Akello M, Lubyayi L, Verweij J, Nash S, van Ree R, Mpairwe H, Tukahebwa E, Webb EL, Elliott AM. The Impact of Intensive Versus Standard Anthelminthic Treatment on Allergy-related Outcomes, Helminth Infection Intensity, and Helminth-related Morbidity in Lake Victoria Fishing Communities, Uganda: Results From the LaVIISWA Cluster-randomized Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2019; 68:1665-1674. [PMID: 30202872 PMCID: PMC6495012 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of allergy-related diseases is increasing in low-income countries. Parasitic helminths, common in these settings, may be protective. We hypothesized that intensive, community-wide, anthelminthic mass drug administration (MDA) would increase allergy-related diseases, while reducing helminth-related morbidity. METHODS In an open, cluster-randomized trial (ISRCTN47196031), we randomized 26 high-schistosomiasis-transmission fishing villages in Lake Victoria, Uganda, in a 1:1 ratio to receive community-wide intensive (quarterly single-dose praziquantel plus albendazole daily for 3 days) or standard (annual praziquantel plus 6 monthly single-dose albendazole) MDA. Primary outcomes were recent wheezing, skin prick test positivity (SPT), and allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (asIgE) after 3 years of intervention. Secondary outcomes included helminths, haemoglobin, and hepatosplenomegaly. RESULTS The outcome survey comprised 3350 individuals. Intensive MDA had no effect on wheezing (risk ratio [RR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64-1.93), SPT (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.85-1.42), or asIgE (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.82-1.12). Intensive MDA reduced Schistosoma mansoni infection intensity: the prevalence from Kato Katz examinations of single stool samples from each patient was 23% versus 39% (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.55-0.88), but the urine circulating cathodic antigen test remained positive in 85% participants in both trial arms. Hookworm prevalence was 8% versus 11% (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31-1.00). There were no differences in anemia or hepatospenomegaly between trial arms. CONCLUSIONS Despite reductions in S. mansoni intensity and hookworm prevalence, intensive MDA had no effect on atopy, allergy-related diseases, or helminth-related pathology. This could be due to sustained low-intensity infections; thus, a causal link between helminths and allergy outcomes cannot be discounted. Intensive community-based MDA has a limited impact in high-schistosomiasis-transmission fishing communities, in the absence of other interventions. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION ISRCTN47196031.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gyaviira Nkurunungi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Remy Hoek Spaans
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Margaret Nampijja
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Geraldine O’Hara
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Kizindo
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Gloria Oduru
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Prossy Kabuubi Nakawungu
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Emmanuel Niwagaba
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Elson Abayo
- Entebbe Hospital, Wakiso District Local Government, Uganda
| | - Joyce Kabagenyi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Christopher Zziwa
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | | | | | - James Kaweesa
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Mirriam Akello
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Lawrence Lubyayi
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | - Jaco Verweij
- Laboratory for Medical Microbiology and Immunology, St Elisabeth Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Stephen Nash
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Ronald van Ree
- Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harriet Mpairwe
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
| | | | - Emily L Webb
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
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12
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Gazzinelli-Guimaraes PH, Dhanani N, King CH, Campbell CH, Aurelio HO, Ferro J, Nala R, Fenwick A, Phillips AE. Accuracy of the WHO praziquantel dose pole for large-scale community treatment of urogenital schistosomiasis in northern Mozambique: Is it time for an update? PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006957. [PMID: 30439945 PMCID: PMC6264897 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A pioneering strategy developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the control of schistosomiasis was the concept of a height-based dose pole to determine praziquantel (PZQ) dosing in large-scale treatment campaigns. However, some recent studies have shown variable accuracy for the dose pole in terms of predicting correct mg/Kg dosing, particularly for treatment of adults. According to the WHO, 91 million adults in 52 countries are targeted to be treated by 2020. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The present study aimed to test the accuracy of the dose pole in determining PZQ dosage by comparing the number of tablets determined by the dose pole with the number of tablets determined according to total body weight. The analysis included height-for-weight data from 9,827 school-aged children (SAC) and adults from 42 villages in the province of Cabo Delgado in Mozambique. The results revealed that of the 7,596 SAC, 91.8% has received an appropriate dose (30-60mg/Kg), 6% received an insufficient dose (<30mg/Kg) and 2% an excessive dose (> 60mg/Kg). On the other hand, 13.7% out of 2,231 adults were treated inaccurately with 13.5% receiving an insufficient dose and 0.2% an excessive dose. When the percentage of insufficient dosing was disaggregated by gender, the frequency of adult females who were underdosed reached 18.3% versus 10.8% of adult males. Of note, Adult females aged 21-55 years were found to have an underdose frequency of 21.3%, compared to 11.8% of adult males in the same age range. The performance of a proposed modified dose pole was compared using the same dataset of adult Mozambicans. The results showed that the modified dose pole reduced the underdose frequency among adults from 13.5% to 10.4%, and subsequently increased the percentage of optimal dosing from 33.7% to 45.3%. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the need to update the WHO-dose pole to avoid administration of insufficient PZQ doses to adults and therefore minimize the potential emergence of PZQ-resistant strains. TRIAL REGISTRATION International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial registry under ISRTC number 14117624.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro H Gazzinelli-Guimaraes
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neerav Dhanani
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America.,Schistosomiasis Consortium for Operational Research and Evaluation, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Carl H Campbell
- Schistosomiasis Consortium for Operational Research and Evaluation, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Herminio O Aurelio
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Josefo Ferro
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidade Católica de Moçambique (UCM), Beira, Moçambique
| | | | - Alan Fenwick
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna E Phillips
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom.,London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Mutsaka-Makuvaza MJ, Matsena-Zingoni Z, Tshuma C, Ray S, Zhou XN, Webster B, Midzi N. Reinfection of urogenital schistosomiasis in pre-school children in a highly endemic district in Northern Zimbabwe: a 12 months compliance study. Infect Dis Poverty 2018; 7:102. [PMID: 30268157 PMCID: PMC6162945 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-018-0483-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In light of the shift to aiming for schistosomiasis elimination, the following are needed: data on reinfection patterns, participation, and sample submission adherence of all high-risk age groups to intervention strategies. This study was conducted to assess prevalence, reinfections along with consecutive participation, sample submission adherence, and effect of treatment on schistosomiasis prevalence in children aged five years and below in an endemic district in Zimbabwe, over one year. Methods The study was conducted from February 2016–February 2017 in Madziwa area, Shamva district. Following community mobilisation, mothers brought their children aged 5 years and below for recruitment at baseline and also urine sample collection at baseline, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months follow up surveys. At each time point, urine was tested for urogenital schistosomiasis by urine filtration and children found positive received treatment. Schistosoma haematobium prevalence, reinfections as well as children participation, and urine sample submission at each visit were assessed at each time point for one year. Results Of the 535 children recruited from the five communities, 169 (31.6%) participated consecutively at all survey points. The highest mean number of samples submitted was 2.9 among communities and survey points. S. haematobium prevalence significantly reduced from 13.3% at baseline to 2.8% at 12 months for all participants and from 24.9% at baseline to 1.8% at 12 months (P < 0.001) for participants coming at all- time points. Among the communities, the highest baseline prevalence was found in Chihuri for both the participants coming consecutively (38.5%, 10/26) and all participants (20.4%, 21/103). Reinfections were significantly high at 9 months follow up survey (P = 0.021) and in Mupfure (P = 0.003). New infections significantly decreased over time (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of acquiring schistosomiasis was high in some communities (P < 0.05). Conclusions S. haematobium infections and reinfections are seasonal and depend on micro-geographical settings. The risk of being infected with schistosomes in pre-school aged children increases with increasing age. Sustained treatment of infected individuals in a community reduces prevalence overtime. Participation compliance at consecutive visits and sample submission adherence are important for effective operational control interventions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40249-018-0483-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masceline Jenipher Mutsaka-Makuvaza
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.,National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, P.O. Box CY573, Causeway, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Zvifadzo Matsena-Zingoni
- National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, P.O. Box CY573, Causeway, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews' Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Cremance Tshuma
- Mashonaland Central Provincial Health Office, Ministry of health and Child Care, Bindura, Zimbabwe
| | - Sunanda Ray
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Bonnie Webster
- Parasites and Vectors Division, National History Museum, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Midzi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
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14
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Abstract
Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms (blood flukes) of the genus Schistosoma, with considerable morbidity in parts of the Middle East, South America, Southeast Asia and, particularly, in sub-Saharan Africa. Infective larvae grow in an intermediate host (fresh-water snails) before penetrating the skin of the definitive human host. Mature adult worms reside in the mesenteric (Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum) or pelvic (Schistosoma haematobium) veins, where female worms lay eggs, which are secreted in stool or urine. Eggs trapped in the surrounding tissues and organs, such as the liver and bladder, cause inflammatory immune responses (including granulomas) that result in intestinal, hepato-splenic or urogenital disease. Diagnosis requires the detection of eggs in excreta or worm antigens in the serum, and sensitive, rapid, point-of-care tests for populations living in endemic areas are needed. The anti-schistosomal drug praziquantel is safe and efficacious against adult worms of all the six Schistosoma spp. infecting humans; however, it does not prevent reinfection and the emergence of drug resistance is a concern. Schistosomiasis elimination will require a multifaceted approach, including: treatment; snail control; information, education and communication; improved water, sanitation and hygiene; accurate diagnostics; and surveillance-response systems that are readily tailored to social-ecological settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald P McManus
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - David W Dunne
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Moussa Sacko
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Research, Institut National de Recherche en Santé Publique, Bamako, Mali
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Birgitte J Vennervald
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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15
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Abstract
Schistosomiasis affects over 200 million people worldwide, most of whom are children. Research and control strategies directed at preschool-aged children (PSAC), i.e., ≤5 years old, have lagged behind those in older children and adults. With the recent WHO revision of the schistosomiasis treatment guidelines to include PSAC, and the recognition of gaps in our current knowledge on the disease and its treatment in this age group, there is now a concerted effort to address these shortcomings. Global and national schistosome control strategies are yet to include PSAC in treatment schedules. Maximum impact of schistosome treatment programmes will be realised through effective treatment of PSAC. In this review, we (i) discuss the current knowledge on the dynamics and consequences of paediatric schistosomiasis and (ii) identify knowledge and policy gaps relevant to these areas and to the successful control of schistosome infection and disease in this age group. Herein, we highlight risk factors, immune mechanisms, pathology, and optimal timing for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of paediatric schistosomiasis. We also discuss the tools required for treating schistosomiasis in PSAC and strategies for accessing them for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derick N. M. Osakunor
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark E. J. Woolhouse
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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16
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Zwang J, Olliaro P. Efficacy and safety of praziquantel 40 mg/kg in preschool-aged and school-aged children: a meta-analysis. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:47. [PMID: 28126024 PMCID: PMC5270314 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1958-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children carry most of the schistosomiasis burden. While school-aged children are the principal target group of preventive chemotherapy with praziquantel, limited information on efficacy and safety exists for preschool-aged children. METHODS Here, we conducted a meta-analysis of clinical trials of praziquantel for treating children with any form of schistosomiasis. Efficacy was reported as cure rate (CR) and egg reduction rates (ERR); statistical corrections were applied based on methodological disparities across trials to derive the predicted geometrical mean ERR (pERRgm). Safety was reported as frequencies of adverse events. RESULTS Forty-seven comparative and non-comparative studies were identified, enrolling 15,549 children of whom 14,340 (92%) were assessed between 3 and 8 weeks post-treatment with praziquantel 40 mg/kg (the WHO-recommended treatment, n = 8,380, 56%) or comparators (n = 5,960, 44%). The median age was 10 years (range 1-19), 11% (n = 1,694) were preschool-aged. The CR and pERRgm with praziquantel 40 mg/kg were respectively: S. haematobium, 73.6% (95% CI: 63.5-81.40, 25 study arms) and 94.7% (95% CI: 92.7-96.4); S. mansoni, 76.4% (95% CI: 71.5-81.0, 34 arms) and 95.3% (95% CI: 94.2-96.2); S. mansoni/S. haematobium, 67.6% (95% CI: 54.1-80.7, 5 arms) and 93.4% (95% CI: 89.9-96.2); S. japonicum, 94.7% (95% CI: 92.2-98.0) and 98.7% (95% CI: 98.3-99.2). Mixed-effect multivariate analysis found no significant difference between preschool- and school-aged children for CR or pERRgm in S. haematobium (P = 0.309 and P = 0.490, respectively) or S. mansoni (P = 0.982 and P = 0.895) after controlling for time of assessment, formulation, intensity of infection and detection method. Praziquantel was reportedly safe at all ages, with only mild reported adverse events which cleared rapidly after treatment. CONCLUSIONS Praziquantel 40 mg/kg was effective at reducing infection intensity in all Schistosoma species without differences between preschool- and school-aged children. However, conclusions should be tempered because of the limited number of preschool-aged children enrolled, disparities in study procedures and limited information made available in publications, as well as the current imperfect test-of-cure. Also, although reportedly well-tolerated, safety was inconsistently assessed. Studies in target groups, individual-data meta-analysis and standardised methodologies are needed for more robust evidence-base.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Piero Olliaro
- UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research & Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, Switzerland
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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17
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Alemu A, Tegegne Y, Damte D, Melku M. Schistosoma mansoni and soil-transmitted helminths among preschool-aged children in Chuahit, Dembia district, Northwest Ethiopia: prevalence, intensity of infection and associated risk factors. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:422. [PMID: 27216255 PMCID: PMC4876558 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-2864-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis are the major public health problems globally. Compared with any other age group, pre-school aged children and school-aged children are the most exposed. There are few studies showing the burden of intestinal schistosomiasis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis among pre-school aged children in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of schistosoma mansoni and soil-transmitted helminths and associated risk factors among preschool aged children of Chuahit and surrounding Kebeles, Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS A community based cross sectional study was conducted from February 2 to March 27 2015. Four hundred one preschool-aged children were included in the study by using two stage cluster sampling technique. Pretested structured questionnaire was employed to collected data via face-to-face interview technique. A single stool specimen was collected, and a portion of the sample was processed by Kato Katz method. RESULTS Of the total children, 141 (35.2 %) harbored one or more intestinal helminthes. Schistosoma mansoni was found in 45 (11.2 %) of preschool age children. Ascaris lumbricoides was the predominant isolate, 77 (19.2 %) followed by S. mansoni, 45 (11.2 %). The least parasites isolated were Tania species, 2 (0.5 %). After adjusting for other variables, being mothers who did not have the habit of washing hands after toilet (AOR = 7.3, 95%CI: 2.97-17.95), being occupationally housewife mothers (AOR = 8.9, 95%CI: 2.27-25.4), using protected spring water as a main family source of water (AOR = 3.9, 95%CI: 1.2-12.3) and child habit of not wearing shoe (AOR = 1.91, 95%CI: 1.01-3.64) were significantly associated with high prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthiasis among preschool-age children in Chuahit. CONCLUSION The current study showed that relatively higher level of STH and S. mansoni among preschool-aged children in Chuahit. This finding calls for a need of public health education, promotion of women education and provision of safe water to reduce the burden of soil-transmitted intestinal helminthiasis and schistosomiaisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agersew Alemu
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yalewayker Tegegne
- Gondar University Hospital, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Demekech Damte
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Melku
- Department of Hematology and Immunohematology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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18
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Baan M, Galappaththi-Arachchige HN, Gagai S, Aurlund CG, Vennervald BJ, Taylor M, van Lieshout L, Kjetland EF. The Accuracy of Praziquantel Dose Poles for Mass Treatment of Schistosomiasis in School Girls in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004623. [PMID: 27139497 PMCID: PMC4854411 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background More than 260 million people live with schistosomiasis and regular mass-treatment should be implemented to prevent morbidity. Praziquantel, dosed at 40 milligrams per kilogram bodyweight, is the drug of choice. During the last decades the WHO Tablet Pole–which estimates tablet need by height as representing weight–has been used as a practical and cheap tool in mass treatment. In South Africa this method could be inaccurate given the prevalence of overweight and obesity. In this study in female pupils in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, we explored the accuracy of the WHO Tablet Pole and the recently developed Modified Dose Pole for adults with two additional intervals and correction for body mass index (BMI). Methodology In randomly selected primary and secondary schools of schistosomiasis-endemic areas, height and weight of female pupils were measured. The WHO Tablet Pole and Modified Dose Pole were used to indicate the amount of praziquantel according to height and the dose in milligrams per kilogram bodyweight was calculated. The BMI correction was performed by adding 600 milligrams (1 tablet) to the indicated dose if a person was overweight/obese. Principal Findings 3157 female students were investigated and 35% were found to be overweight/obese. Using the WHO Tablet Pole, 73% would have received an adequate dose (range 30–60 mg/kg). When correcting for BMI, this would have been 94%. Using the Modified Dose Pole with BMI correction, 97% would have been adequately treated. Conclusions This study shows that the WHO Tablet Pole will be inaccurate in estimating the dose of praziquantel in South African girls due to high prevalence of overweight/obesity. Under-dosing of individuals who appear overweight/obese could be largely prevented by adding an extra praziquantel tablet to the recommended dose. Further research must be done to explore if subjective weight estimates are reliable. Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma worms, contributing to morbidity and mortality in 261 million people, mainly in poor, rural communities. In an effort to control schistosomiasis, the World Health Organization advocates for regular mass treatment to at-risk populations, administering free praziquantel (40mg/kg). The WHO Tablet Pole, which estimates the number of tablets for each individual by height, is recommended for the dosing of praziquantel. A Modified Dose Pole with two additional height intervals has been developed for adults. In addition, the developers of the Modified Dose Pole suggest to add an extra tablet to the indicated dose if the person appears to be overweight/obese (“correction for body mass index (BMI)”). This study explored the accuracy of these dose pole programmes in 3157 school-girls in schistosomiasis-endemic KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Overweight or obesity was found in 35% of the study population. With the WHO Tablet Pole, only 73% would have received an acceptable dose (30-60mg/kg), whereas when correcting for overweight/obesity almost all the girls would have been adequately treated. We suggest adding one tablet to the dose recommended by the WHO Tablet Pole if a person appears to be overweight/obese to prevent under-dosing of these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marije Baan
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Science, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hashini Nilushika Galappaththi-Arachchige
- Norwegian Centre for Imported and Tropical Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Silindile Gagai
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Christine G. Aurlund
- Norwegian Centre for Imported and Tropical Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Birgitte J. Vennervald
- Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Diseases, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Myra Taylor
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Lisette van Lieshout
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eyrun F. Kjetland
- Norwegian Centre for Imported and Tropical Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- * E-mail:
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Trastullo R, Dolci LS, Passerini N, Albertini B. Development of flexible and dispersible oral formulations containing praziquantel for potential schistosomiasis treatment of pre-school age children. Int J Pharm 2015; 495:536-550. [PMID: 26386139 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ), an anthelmintic drug used in developing countries for the treatment of schistosome infections, was processed using the fluid bed wet granulation technology to prepare fast dispersible granules, as an appropriate and flexible dosage form for pre-school-aged children. Granulation experiments were performed incorporating PZQ either in the powder mixture, according to the traditional way, or in the liquid phase containing wetting agents. In the powder mixture several excipients were tested: Flowlac 100 as filler, Galeniq 721 (isomalt) and Neosorb P 100 T (D-sorbitol) as sweeteners and PVP K30 as binder; while in the liquid phase Lutrol F68, Cremophor RH 40 or Tween 80 as surfactants were investigated. Different formulations loaded with 10% w/w (batches 1-8) and 20% w/w of PZQ (batches 9-13) were produced The majority of granules displayed good flow properties and uniform drug content. X-ray powder diffraction showed that PZQ remained in its original crystalline state, while differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform-infrared analysis evidenced the formation of chemical interactions among the ingredients. The solubilisation test performed in non-sink condition to reproduce the actual condition in which a child of 4 years takes the medicine revealed that granules quickly formed a very fine suspension in water (dV90=39.9 μm). Although after the granulation process the solubility of raw PZQ was not increased, adding the aqueous suspension to 500 ml of buffer solution of pH 1.5, simulating the fasted state of a child, 50% of the drug was dissolved after 30 min. After granule manipulation with milk and fruit juices, no PZQ degradation was observed during time. Finally, the selected granule formulation provided evidence to be stable even at hot and very humid climate (30°C/75% RH), at least for the examined time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Trastullo
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology, University of Bologna, Via S. Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luisa Stella Dolci
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Nadia Passerini
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology, University of Bologna, Via S. Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Albertini
- Department of Pharmacy and BioTechnology, University of Bologna, Via S. Donato 19/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
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Nordin P, Poggensee G, Mtweve S, Krantz I. From a weighing scale to a pole: a comparison of two different dosage strategies in mass treatment of Schistosomiasis haematobium. Glob Health Action 2014; 7:25351. [PMID: 25476930 PMCID: PMC4256524 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v7.25351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Revised: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical schistosomiasis in endemic countries is treated with a single dose of praziquantel per 40 mg/kg body weight. Treating according to weight, in resource-poor settings when thousands of doses are to be administered in mass treatment campaigns, is considered problematic. A calibrated dose-pole based on height was developed and is now used in mass treatment campaigns for determining the doses for schoolchildren. The dose-pole will generate dose errors since every child population contains individuals that are either short or tall for weight. The aim of this study is to explore whether the WHO praziquantel pole is a satisfactory dose instrument for mass treatment of S. haematobium. METHODS In 1996 and 2002, 1,694 children were surveyed in the Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. We compared doses given by weight to doses given by height using descriptive statistics and regression. CONCLUSIONS AND INTERPRETATION The WHO dose-pole for praziquantel is based on height of the patient; however, children with the same height will differ in weight. Our study shows that children with the same weight could qualify for up to four different dose levels based on their height. The largest variation of doses based on the WHO dose-pole will be found in children below 20 kg of bodyweight. Using bodyweight and tablet halves as the smallest tablet division unit to determine the doses of praziquantel, one only has to identify every 6th kilogram of bodyweight; the doses will then vary a lot less than when using the WHO dose-pole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Nordin
- The Skaraborg Institute for Research and Development, Skövde, Sweden;
| | - Gabriele Poggensee
- Nigerian Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Sabina Mtweve
- Department of Community Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Ingela Krantz
- The Skaraborg Institute for Research and Development, Skövde, Sweden
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Abstract
Human schistosomiasis--or bilharzia--is a parasitic disease caused by trematode flukes of the genus Schistosoma. By conservative estimates, at least 230 million people worldwide are infected with Schistosoma spp. Adult schistosome worms colonise human blood vessels for years, successfully evading the immune system while excreting hundreds to thousands of eggs daily, which must either leave the body in excreta or become trapped in nearby tissues. Trapped eggs induce a distinct immune-mediated granulomatous response that causes local and systemic pathological effects ranging from anaemia, growth stunting, impaired cognition, and decreased physical fitness, to organ-specific effects such as severe hepatosplenism, periportal fibrosis with portal hypertension, and urogenital inflammation and scarring. At present, preventive public health measures in endemic regions consist of treatment once every 1 or 2 years with the isoquinolinone drug, praziquantel, to suppress morbidity. In some locations, elimination of transmission is now the goal; however, more sensitive diagnostics are needed in both the field and clinics, and integrated environmental and health-care management will be needed to ensure elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Colley
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Disease & Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Liverpool, UK
| | - W Evan Secor
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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22
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Colley DG, Bustinduy AL, Secor WE, King CH. Human schistosomiasis. Lancet 2014. [PMID: 24698483 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(13)619492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Human schistosomiasis--or bilharzia--is a parasitic disease caused by trematode flukes of the genus Schistosoma. By conservative estimates, at least 230 million people worldwide are infected with Schistosoma spp. Adult schistosome worms colonise human blood vessels for years, successfully evading the immune system while excreting hundreds to thousands of eggs daily, which must either leave the body in excreta or become trapped in nearby tissues. Trapped eggs induce a distinct immune-mediated granulomatous response that causes local and systemic pathological effects ranging from anaemia, growth stunting, impaired cognition, and decreased physical fitness, to organ-specific effects such as severe hepatosplenism, periportal fibrosis with portal hypertension, and urogenital inflammation and scarring. At present, preventive public health measures in endemic regions consist of treatment once every 1 or 2 years with the isoquinolinone drug, praziquantel, to suppress morbidity. In some locations, elimination of transmission is now the goal; however, more sensitive diagnostics are needed in both the field and clinics, and integrated environmental and health-care management will be needed to ensure elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Colley
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Disease & Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Liverpool, UK
| | - W Evan Secor
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Palha De Sousa CA, Brigham T, Chasekwa B, Mbuya MNN, Tielsch JM, Humphrey JH, Prendergast AJ. Dosing of praziquantel by height in sub-Saharan African adults. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2014; 90:634-7. [PMID: 24591432 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornerstone of schistosomiasis control is mass praziquantel treatment in high prevalence areas. Adults are an important target population, given increasing recognition of the burden of male and female genital schistosomiasis. However, use of weighing scales to calculate praziquantel dosing in rural areas can be challenging. For school-age children, the World Health Organization (WHO) has approved a dose pole to simplify praziquantel dosing based on height. We modified the pediatric dose pole by adding two height categories and incorporating a simple overweight/obesity adjustment, for simplified mass treatment of adults in sub-Saharan Africa. Using the rural Zimbabwean Demographic and Health Survey data, we show that the modified dose pole with body mass index adjustment would result in > 98% of adults receiving an acceptable dose (30-60 mg/kg), with only 1.4% and 0.3% receiving an inadequate dose (< 30 mg/kg) or high dose (> 60 mg/kg), respectively. An adult dose pole may provide a more feasible alternative to weighing scales in community-based praziquantel treatment programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiquita A Palha De Sousa
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland; Highline Community College, Des Moines, Washington; Zvitambo Institute for Maternal Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe; Department of Global Health, School of Public Health and Health Services, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia; Centre for Paediatrics, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Stothard JR, Sousa-Figueiredo JC, Navaratnam AMD. Advocacy, policies and practicalities of preventive chemotherapy campaigns for African children with schistosomiasis. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2014; 11:733-52. [DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2013.811931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Olliaro P, Delgado-Romero P, Keiser J. The little we know about the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of praziquantel (racemate and R-enantiomer). J Antimicrob Chemother 2014; 69:863-70. [PMID: 24390933 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkt491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Praziquantel has been the mainstay of schistosomiasis control since 1984 and widely distributed since 2006 through 'preventive chemotherapy' programmes to school-aged children or at-risk populations. In addition, preschool-aged children are now recognized as a vulnerable population and a group for targeted treatment, but they may be difficult to dose correctly with the available product--a racemate, based on the biologically active enantiomer (R-praziquantel) and the inactive distomer (S-praziquantel), which contributes the bitter taste and doubles the size of the tablets. Hence, a paediatric formulation is required, possibly enantiomerically pure. Developing such a product and extending its use to younger children should be pharmacologically guided, but limited data exist on pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic correlations for praziquantel. This article presents available data on the chemistry, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of praziquantel, as well as R-praziquantel, and points to gaps in our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Olliaro
- UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme on Research & Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), World Health Organization, 20 Avenue Appia, CH-1211, Geneva 27, Switzerland
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Olliaro PL, Vaillant M, Hayes DJ, Montresor A, Chitsulo L. Practical dosing of praziquantel for schistosomiasis in preschool-aged children. Trop Med Int Health 2013; 18:1085-1089. [PMID: 23937700 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Schistosomiasis is known to occur in preschool-aged children, but achieving accurate dosing of praziquantel in its current form is challenging. While waiting for a paediatric formulation, there is a need to develop a means for using the available products to treat this age group. Current 600-mg tablets are differently scored to give units of 150 mg (a quarter of a tablet) or 300 mg (half a tablet). METHODS We examined several dosing schemes to dose accurately (40-60 mg/kg) children aged 3-72 months (weight range 4-25 kg, based on available weight-for-age growth references from sub-Saharan Africa and Brazil, n = 106,230). RESULTS Adequate dosing can be achieved with formulations that can be split into four 150 mg quarters for children weighing 5 kg or more, and with tablets than can be split into two 300 mg halves for children weighing 10 kg or more. Giving ½ tablet for 5-7 kg; ¾ tablet for 8-10 kg; 1 tablet for 11-15 kg; 1 ½ tablet for 16-21 kg; and two tablets for 22-25 kg will have 100% of subjects correctly dosed within the target 40-60 mg/kg range. CONCLUSIONS Formulations that can be divided into four parts (to give 150 mg increments) are preferred for children weighing less than 11 kg; the same dosing can be applied with 600 mf praziquantel formulations that can be divided into four quarters or two halves from 11 kg body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero L Olliaro
- UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research & Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michel Vaillant
- Methodology and Statistics Unit, Centre de Recherche Public - Santé (CRP-Santé), Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Daniel J Hayes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Antonio Montresor
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lester Chitsulo
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva, Switzerland
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Garba A, Lamine MS, Djibo A, Tahirou A, Aouami MA, Alfari A, Phillips AE, Fenwick A, Utzinger J. Safety and efficacy of praziquantel syrup (Epiquantel®) against Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni in preschool-aged children in Niger. Acta Trop 2013; 128:318-25. [PMID: 23237719 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Revised: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 12/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Given the characteristic age-prevalence curve of Schistosoma infection, preventive chemotherapy with praziquantel is primarily targeted at school-aged children, whilst, in highly endemic areas, other high-risk groups might be included for regular treatment. Nevertheless, schistosomiasis can affect children well before they reach school-age, but this population group is usually excluded from preventive chemotherapy. We assessed the safety and efficacy of praziquantel syrup (Epiquantel®) in preschool-aged children in three villages of Niger. Children aged ≤72 months provided multiple urine and stool samples that were microscopically examined using standard protocols. Schistosoma-positive children were treated with praziquantel syrup at a dose of 40 mg/kg after a meal of millet porridge. Children remained under medical supervision for 4h and adverse events were recorded. Additionally, a questionnaire was administrated to the mothers/guardians 24h post-treatment for further probing of adverse events. Treatment efficacy was evaluated 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment using multiple stool and urine samples. A third of the 243 treated children reported adverse events within 4h, whilst a further 6.2% reported adverse events upon probing 24h post-treatment. Abdominal pain, bloody diarrhoea and sleepiness were the most common adverse events, but these were transient and self-limiting. Praziquantel syrup showed moderate-to-high efficacy against Schistosoma haematobium with egg reduction rates of 69.4% and 71.2% 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment and cure rates of 85.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) 79.7-90.5%) and 94.9% (95% CI 90.5-97.6%), respectively. Considerably lower cure and egg reduction rates were observed against Schistosoma mansoni (e.g. cure rate at 6-week post-treatment follow-up was only 50.6% (95% CI 39.9-61.2%). Concluding, praziquantel syrup is well tolerated in preschool-aged children with moderate-to-high efficacy against S. haematobium, but considerably lower efficacy against S. mansoni in Niger. A larger study is warranted to investigate the observed differences in species-specific susceptibilities and to assess operational issues and community-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amadou Garba
- Réseau International Schistosomoses, Environnement, Aménagement et Lutte (RISEAL-Niger), 1448, Bd de l'Indépendance, B.P. 13724, Niamey, Niger; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, P.O. Box, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland.
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Knopp S, Becker SL, Ingram KJ, Keiser J, Utzinger J. Diagnosis and treatment of schistosomiasis in children in the era of intensified control. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2013; 11:1237-58. [PMID: 24127662 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2013.844066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the current era of intensified and integrated control against schistosomiasis and other neglected tropical diseases, there is a need to carefully rethink and take into consideration disease-specific issues pertaining to the diagnosis, prevention, control and local elimination. Here, we present a comprehensive overview about schistosomiasis including recent trends in the number of people treated with praziquantel and the latest developments in diagnosis and control. Particular emphasis is placed on children. Identified research needs are offered for consideration; namely, expanding our knowledge about schistosomiasis in preschool-aged children, assessing and quantifying the impact of schistosomiasis on infectious and noncommunicable diseases, developing new antischistosomal drugs and child-friendly formulations, designing and implementing setting-specific control packages and developing highly sensitive, but simple diagnostic tools that are able to detect very light infections in young children and in people living in areas targeted for schistosomiasis elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Knopp
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box, CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland
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Abstract
Co-infection of individual hosts by multiple parasite species is a pattern that is very commonly observed in natural populations. Understanding the processes that generate these patterns poses a challenge. For example, it is difficult to discern the relative roles of exposure and susceptibility in generating the mixture and density of parasites within hosts. Yet discern them we must, if we are to design and deliver successful medical interventions for co-infected populations. Here, we synthesise an emergent understanding of how processes operate and interact to generate patterns of co-infection. We consider within-host communities (or infracommunities) generally, that is including not only classical parasites but also the microbiota that are so abundant on mucosal surfaces and which are increasingly understood to be so influential on host biology. We focus on communities that include a helminth, but we expect similar inferences to pertain to other taxa. We suggest that, thanks to recent research at both the within-host (e.g. immunological) and between-host (e.g. epidemiological) scales, researchers are poised to reveal the processes that generate the observed distribution of parasite communities among hosts. Progress will be facilitated by using new technologies as well as statistical and experimental tools to test competing hypotheses about processes that might generate patterns in co-infection data. By understanding the multiple interactions that underlie patterns of co-infection, we will be able to understand and intelligently predict how a suite of co-infections (and thus the host that bears them) will together respond to medical interventions as well as other environmental changes. The challenge for us all is to become scholars of co-infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Viney
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, UK.
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Erfe JM, Belizario VY, Chua PLC, Naig JRA. Validating the WHO dose pole in the Philippines for school-based mass drug administration of praziquantel for morbidity control of schistosomiasis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2013; 107:620-6. [DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trt076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Schistosomiasis in African infants and preschool children: let them now be treated! Trends Parasitol 2013; 29:197-205. [PMID: 23465781 PMCID: PMC3878762 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of schistosomiasis within African infants and preschool children has been much better documented in recent years, revealing an important burden of disease previously overlooked. Despite mounting evidence showing that treatment with praziquantel is safe, beneficial, and could be delivered within ongoing public health interventions, young children still do not have satisfactory access to this drug, and a significant treatment gap exists. Progress towards resolution of this unfortunate health inequity is highlighted, including the development of an appropriate paediatric praziquantel formulation, and present blocks are identified on securing this issue within the international health agenda.
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Coulibaly JT, N'Gbesso YK, Knopp S, Keiser J, N'Goran EK, Utzinger J. Efficacy and safety of praziquantel in preschool-aged children in an area co-endemic for Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1917. [PMID: 23236526 PMCID: PMC3516585 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In sub-Saharan Africa the recommended strategy to control schistosomiasis is preventive chemotherapy. Emphasis is placed on school-aged children, but in high endemicity areas, preschool-aged children are also at risk, and hence might need treatment with praziquantel. Since a pediatric formulation (e.g., syrup) is not available outside of Egypt, crushed praziquantel tablets are used, but the efficacy and safety of this treatment regimen is insufficiently studied. METHODOLOGY We assessed the efficacy and safety of crushed praziquantel tablets among preschool-aged children (<6 years) in the Azaguié district, south Côte d'Ivoire, where Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium coexist. Using a cross-sectional design, children provided two stool and two urine samples before and 3 weeks after treatment. Crushed praziquantel tablets, mixed with water, were administered at a dose of 40 mg/kg. Adverse events were assessed and graded 4 and 24 hours posttreatment by interviewing mothers/guardians. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Overall, 160 preschool-aged children had at least one stool and one urine sample examined with duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears and a point-of-care circulating cathodic antigen (POC-CCA) cassette for S. mansoni, and urine filtration for S. haematobium diagnosis before and 3 weeks after praziquantel administration. According to the Kato-Katz and urine filtration results, we found high efficacy against S. mansoni (cure rate (CR), 88.6%; egg reduction rate (ERR), 96.7%) and S. haematobium (CR, 88.9%; ERR, 98.0%). POC-CCA revealed considerably lower efficacy against S. mansoni (CR, 53.8%). Treatment was generally well tolerated, but moderately severe adverse events (i.e., body and face inflammation), were observed in four Schistosoma egg-negative children. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Crushed praziquantel administered to preschool-aged children at a dose of 40 mg/kg is efficacious against S. mansoni and S. haematobium in a co-endemic setting of Côte d'Ivoire. Further research is required with highly sensitive diagnostic tools and safety must be investigated in more depth. TRIAL REGISTRATION Controlled-Trials.com ISRCTN53172722.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean T. Coulibaly
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Yve K. N'Gbesso
- Centre de Santé Rural d'Azaguié, Departement d'Agboville, Azaguié, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Stefanie Knopp
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eliézer K. N'Goran
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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Sousa-Figueiredo JC, Betson M, Atuhaire A, Arinaitwe M, Navaratnam AMD, Kabatereine NB, Bickle Q, Stothard JR. Performance and safety of praziquantel for treatment of intestinal schistosomiasis in infants and preschool children. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1864. [PMID: 23094120 PMCID: PMC3475660 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 2012 the WHO formally recognised that infants and preschool children are at significant risk of schistosomiasis and qualify for treatment with praziquantel (PZQ). Targeted surveys determining both the performance and safety of this drug are now needed in endemic areas. We have formally assessed parasitological cure and putative side-effects in a prospective cohort of Schistosoma mansoni-infected children (aged 5 months–7 years old) in lakeshore settings of Uganda. Methodology/Principal Findings From a total of 369 children found to be egg-patent for intestinal schistosomiasis, 305 were followed-up three to four weeks after PZQ treatment and infection status re-assessed. Separately, a previously tested side-effect questionnaire was employed before and 24 hours after PZQ treatment to assess incidence and amelioration of symptoms in young children and their mothers. While the overall observed parasitological cure was 56.4%, a significant difference was found between a sub-set of children who had a history of multiple PZQ treatments (between one and four in an 18 month period), where cure rate was 41.7%, and those who had never received treatment (cure rate was 77·6%). PZQ proved to be safe, with only mild reported side effects which cleared within a month after treatment. Prevalence of reported symptoms was significantly lower in children than in mothers, and fewer side-effects were reported upon subsequent rounds of PZQ treatment. Conclusion/Significance Our findings show that PZQ treatment of young children resulted in satisfactory cure rates, and marked reduction in egg-output, with only mild and transient reported side-effects. However, the cure rate is clearly lower in younger children and those with history of previous treatment. Cure rate, but not egg reduction rate, was also lower in children with heavier pre-intervention infection intensity. With chemotherapy now recommended as a long-term strategy for disease control in young children, research into optimising the periodicity of targeted treatment strategies is now crucial. Although there is now extensive evidence for infection in preschool-aged children, and even a change in WHO guidelines endorsing treatment of this young age class in endemic areas, very little work has been published on the performance of praziquantel in children below the age of six. Previous work on praziquantel performance in preschool aged children focused on Schistosoma haematobium infections (urogenital schistosomiasis), with few observational studies published for S. mansoni infections (intestinal schistosomiasis). With a formalised protocol, we show that delivery of praziquantel to preschool-aged children living in endemic areas is safe and efficacious. However, this work has also shed light on dynamics never previously explored. History of previous treatment and age below three years proved to be determining factors for the outcome of treatment. This work provides firm evidence that in an endemic population certain young individuals were simply not cured (no egg or antigen cessation) after standard doses of praziquantel. This potential for non-cure should not go overlooked since exposure to drug without cure (either due to parasite or human factors) can lead to emergence and spread of resistance to praziquantel. Bearing in mind that praziquantel is the only commercially available drug against schistosomiasis, we recommend further research to understand these dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- José C. Sousa-Figueiredo
- Disease Control Strategy Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martha Betson
- Disease Control Strategy Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Atuhaire
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Arinaitwe
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Quentin Bickle
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Disease Control Strategy Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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