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Tylkowska A, Mocha N, Kołnierzak MM, Szenejko M. Risk Factors Associated with Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Dog Feces That Contaminate Public Areas of Warsaw, Poland. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:450. [PMID: 38338093 PMCID: PMC10854816 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030450] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A constant increase in dog numbers, especially in large towns, has been observed recently. The presence of dogs in urban spaces increases the risk of pollution by dogs' feces, which may contain growth forms of parasites including canine, soil-transmitted helminths (cSTHs), most of which have a proven zoonotic potential. This study assessed the frequency of occurrence and estimated the potential risk associated with the presence of cSTHs in dogs' feces left uncollected in urban areas. The study material consisted of 200 fecal samples obtained from city and dog parks situated in selected Warsaw districts. Each fecal sample was processed using the flotation technique. Eggs of cSTHs, including Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina, Trichuris vulpis, and hookworms from the Ancylostomatidae family were found in 23 (11.5%) of the examined fecal samples. The most prevalent species were hookworms from the family Ancylostomatidae (8%). The presence of parasites was confirmed in 14 out of 20 studied locations (70%), including eight city parks (72.7%) and six dog parks (66.7%). City and dog parks did not differ significantly in the frequency of parasite occurrence. This study indicated that dogs' feces, left uncollected, may cause environmental contamination with cSTHs. It also indicated that the presence of dogs' feces in public areas and the associated presence of parasites is still a problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Tylkowska
- Department of Biology of Animal Environment, Institute of Animal Science, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.T.)
| | - Natalia Mocha
- Department of Biology of Animal Environment, Institute of Animal Science, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.T.)
| | - Marta Małgorzata Kołnierzak
- Department of Biology of Animal Environment, Institute of Animal Science, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.T.)
| | - Magdalena Szenejko
- Department of Environmental Ecology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13, 71-415 Szczecin, Poland;
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Santarém VA, Panazzolo GK, Kmetiuk LB, Domingues OJ, Ferreira IB, de Souza Filho RT, Farinhas JH, Doline FR, Lescano SAZ, Biondo LM, Giuffrida R, Biondo AW, Fávero GM. One health approach to toxocariasis in quilombola communities of southern Brazil. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:379. [PMID: 37872605 PMCID: PMC10594776 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06010-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis has been listed among the most neglected parasitic diseases worldwide, with approximately one fifth of the global population exposed, particularly those living under poverty. In Brazil, communities of descendants of enslaved blacks (quilombola) have historically had some of the highest rates of vulnerability and poverty, characterized by lack of health assistance, poor quality of life, and nutritional insecurity. METHODS A cross-sectional sampling of quilombola individuals living in four communities of southern Brazil, as well as their dogs and the soil, was carried out from December 2021 to March 2022. Sociodemographic and other information such as water source, alimentary habits, and dog and cat ownership were gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire for assessing toxocariasis risk factors. Human serum samples were tested by ELISA for anti-Toxocara spp. IgG antibody detection was carried out on dog feces and hair, and soil samples were surveyed for presence of Toxocara spp. eggs. RESULTS Overall, 172/208 individuals (82.7%, 95% CI = 77.0-87.2) were seropositive, the highest seroprevalence rate to date in Brazil. Male gender (P = 0.029), educational level (P = 0.026), and drinking water source (P = 0.043) were associated with seropositivity by univariate analysis. Final logistic regression revealed increased odds (P = 0.017, OR = 7.6, 95% CI = 1.5-42.7) to have seropositivity in individuals > 50 years old (< 10 years old). As expected, individuals with soil contact were more likely seropositive (P = 0.038, OR = 4.4, 95% CI = 1.1-18.8). Although retrieved in only 5/96 (5.2%) dog feces, Toxocara spp. eggs were found in 18/60 (30.0%) soil samples. CONCLUSIONS The high vulnerability and seroprevalence observed in quilombola communities clearly demand a One Health approach for detection, monitoring, and prevention of infection by Toxocara spp. in both human and dog populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Graduate College of Animal Science, University of Western São Paulo, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovanni Kalempa Panazzolo
- Graduate College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Orlei José Domingues
- Graduate College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Isabella Braghin Ferreira
- Graduate College of Animal Science, University of Western São Paulo, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - João Henrique Farinhas
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fernando Rodrigo Doline
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Leandro Meneguelli Biondo
- Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, National Institute of the Atlantic Forest (INMA), Santa Teresa, Espírito Santo, Brazil
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Rogério Giuffrida
- Graduate College of Animal Science, University of Western São Paulo, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Giovani Marino Fávero
- Graduate College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Paraná, Brazil
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Kalef DA, Al-Khayat FAAM. A Comparative Study of Some Intestinal Parasites in Fecal Samples of Domestic and Stray Cats in Baghdad, Iraq. COMP PARASITOL 2022; 89. [DOI: 10.1654/21-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Ahmed Kalef
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad city, Iraq. (e-mail: )
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Saelens G, Robertson L, Gabriël S. Diagnostic tools for the detection of taeniid eggs in different environmental matrices: A systematic review. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2022; 26:e00145. [PMID: 35198745 PMCID: PMC8844199 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2022.e00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The cestode family Taeniidae consists of the genera Echinococcus and Taenia, both of which include zoonotic tapeworms of serious public health importance. Various environmental matrices have been identified from which parasite transmission to animals and humans can occur, and many techniques for detecting taeniid eggs in different environments have been developed. However, the majority lack appropriate validation, and standardized egg isolation procedures are absent. This hampers interstudy comparisons and poses a challenge for future researchers when deciding which technique to implement for assessing taeniid egg contamination in a particular matrix. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to present an overview of the detection methods for taeniid eggs in the environment, to discuss and compare them, and to provide recommendations for future studies. In total, 1814 publications were retrieved from scientific databases, and, ultimately, data were systematically reviewed from 90 papers. The results provide an overview of numerous diagnostic tests for taeniid egg detection in (or on) water, food, soil, insects, objects, and air. These tools could be categorized as either conventional (light microscopy), molecular, or immunodetection tools. The relatively cheap microscopy techniques often lack sensitivity and are unable to identify a taeniid egg at the genus level. Nevertheless, several records ascribed a genus, or even species, to taeniid eggs that had been detected by light microscopy. Molecular and immunodetection tools offer better specificity, but still rely on the preceding egg recovery steps that also affect overall sensitivity. Finally, the majority of the methods lacked any attempt at performance evaluation and standardization, especially at the earlier stages of the analysis (e.g., sampling strategy, storage conditions, egg recovery), and viability was rarely addressed. As such, our review highlights the need for standardized, validated detection tools, that not only assess the extent of environmental contamination, but also the egg genus or species, and address viability. The cestode family Taeniidae contains species of serious public health importance. Parasite transmission may occur from several environmental matrices. Many methods for environmental detection of taeniid eggs have been developed. These often lack standardization, performance evaluation, and viability assessment.
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A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Toxocariasis in Iran: Is it Time to Take it Seriously? Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:569-584. [PMID: 32319035 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-020-00195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis is one of the neglected zoonosis with considerable public health importance around the world. The current study aimed to elucidate the overall prevalence of Toxocara infection in human and definitive hosts and also the contamination of soil and raw vegetables with the ova of these parasites, in Iran, using systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS Six English and Persian databases were explored from 2000 to 2017 using the terms toxocariasis, Toxocara spp., visceral larva migrans, Iran, epidemiology, and prevalence. This meta-analysis conducted using STATA, and for all statistical tests, a p value less than 0.05 was considered significant. The random-effects model was used to the report of the pooled prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The pooled prevalence of toxocariasis in human was calculated as 11% (95% CI 8-13%). In terms of definitive hosts, the pooled prevalence of Toxocara infection in dogs and cats were calculated as 17% (95% CI 14-20%) and 37% (95% CI 26-48%), respectively. Also, the pooled prevalence of Toxocara spp. eggs in the soil and raw vegetable samples were calculated as 18% (95% CI 13-23%) and 2% (95% CI 1-3%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of current study demonstrate that toxocariasis should be taken more seriously by health authorities. Implementing an appropriate control program is necessary to reduce the incidence of this disease in Iran.
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Abstract
I herein review published studies reporting the prevalence of Toxocara infection in dogs and cats in Brazil. Based on data gathered from faecal examinations of approximately 38,940 dogs and 5600 cats from different Brazilian studies, the mean prevalence of Toxocara infection is 11.4% (range: 0.7-48.9%) in dogs and 16.7% (0.3-43.1%) in cats. These mean values based on faecal examinations should be interpreted with cautious, considering the obvious differences in terms of sample size, diagnostic tests and animal populations. Accordingly, necropsy investigations reveal higher mean prevalence values (21.9% for Toxocara canis and 27.6% Toxocara cati in dogs and cats, respectively). The contamination with Toxocara eggs in different environments and the significance of these parasites from a public health perspective in Brazil are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
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Stray Dog Population in a City of Southern Mexico and Its Impact on the Contamination of Public Areas. Vet Med Int 2018; 2018:2381583. [PMID: 30356356 PMCID: PMC6176319 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2381583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess the risk of zoonotic pathogen transmission as function of stray dog presence and health status, a cross-sectional study was carried out in a large city of southern Mexico that lacks comprehensive strategies for the control of stray canine populations. The photographic capture-recapture method was used to estimate the density of dogs/km2. In the same way, dog feces from 14 public parks of the city were collected to determine the prevalence and intensity of infection with gastrointestinal parasites. The canine population was estimated between 65 and 80 thousand dogs, with a population density of 1,081 dogs/km2, mostly males (71.4%). A high proportion of dogs (72.3%) were found to be in good body condition score (BCS 3). The person:dog ratio was 2.3. The likelihood of being in the BCS 2 category was lower in areas with a higher density of dogs. All feces collected from the parks contained eggs of intestinal parasites, most of them with a medium (42.9%) to high (35.7%) infection intensity, notably Ancylostoma caninum. It was recorded that cases with a low-intensity of GI infection showed polyparasitism (35.7%) associated with A. caninum. There is a large population of stray dogs that roam freely in the streets of Campeche city with access to sources of food, which is reflected by their good BCS, and dogs do not have access to preventive medicine programs (de-worming) and thus contaminate public parks with feces with significant parasitic egg loads of zoonotic importance.
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Toxocariasis: a silent threat with a progressive public health impact. Infect Dis Poverty 2018; 7:59. [PMID: 29895324 PMCID: PMC5998503 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-018-0437-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxocariasis is a neglected parasitic zoonosis that afflicts millions of the pediatric and adolescent populations worldwide, especially in impoverished communities. This disease is caused by infection with the larvae of Toxocara canis and T. cati, the most ubiquitous intestinal nematode parasite in dogs and cats, respectively. In this article, recent advances in the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis and pharmacotherapies that have been used in the treatment of toxocariasis are reviewed. Main text Over the past two decades, we have come far in our understanding of the biology and epidemiology of toxocariasis. However, lack of laboratory infrastructure in some countries, lack of uniform case definitions and limited surveillance infrastructure are some of the challenges that hindered the estimation of global disease burden. Toxocariasis encompasses four clinical forms: visceral, ocular, covert and neural. Incorrect or misdiagnosis of any of these disabling conditions can result in severe health consequences and considerable medical care spending. Fortunately, multiple diagnostic modalities are available, which if effectively used together with the administration of appropriate pharmacologic therapies, can minimize any unnecessary patient morbidity. Conclusions Although progress has been made in the management of toxocariasis patients, there remains much work to be done. Implementation of new technologies and better understanding of the pathogenesis of toxocariasis can identify new diagnostic biomarkers, which may help in increasing diagnostic accuracy. Also, further clinical research breakthroughs are needed to develop better ways to effectively control and prevent this serious disease. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40249-018-0437-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Mota KCP, Grama DF, Fava NMN, Úngari LP, Faria ESM, Cury MC. Distribution and risk factors of Ascarididae and other geohelminths in the soil of Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2018; 60:e17. [PMID: 29694601 PMCID: PMC5956571 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946201860017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the geohelminths, parasites from the Ascarididae family have a significant
role in the human and animal health. This research aims to determine the
prevalence of Ascarididae species in the soil in different areas located in a
city of Minas Gerais State, Brazil (South America). The study was developed in
squares, parks, sports clubs, orchards and municipal children's schools. Samples
of sand/soil/grass were collected from January to August 2014. The optical
microscope screening was performed through formal-ether and spontaneous
sedimentation techniques. Out of the 183 collected samples, eight (4.4%)
belonged to parks, 16 (8.7%) to sports clubs, 76 (41.5%) to squares, 23 (12.6%)
to orchards, and 60 (32.8%) to schools. Out of the total, 28 (15.3%) contained
Ascarididae eggs. Higher levels of positivity were demonstrated in the raining
season (25.0%), in samples collected in the southern region of the town (25.1%),
on ground soils (27.3%). Twenty-three (12.6%) were detected by the formal-ether
sedimentation technique and 10 (5.5%) by spontaneous sedimentation technique.
Therefore, it was concluded that the soils in the city of Uberlandia are
contaminated with eggs and larvae of geohelminths, enabling dissemination of
illnesses among animals and human beings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daliane Faria Grama
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Natália M Nasser Fava
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Letícia Pereira Úngari
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Márcia Cristina Cury
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Geisen S, Mitchell EAD, Adl S, Bonkowski M, Dunthorn M, Ekelund F, Fernández LD, Jousset A, Krashevska V, Singer D, Spiegel FW, Walochnik J, Lara E. Soil protists: a fertile frontier in soil biology research. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 42:293-323. [DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuy006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Geisen
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Nematology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Edward A D Mitchell
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, Neuchâtel 2000, Switzerland
- Jardin Botanique de Neuchâtel, Chemin du Perthuis-du-Sault 58, Neuchâtel 2000, Switzerland
| | - Sina Adl
- Department of Soil Sciences, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Michael Bonkowski
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne, Institute of Zoology, Terrestrial Ecology, Zülpicher Straße 47b, 50674 Köln, Germany
| | - Micah Dunthorn
- Department of Ecology, University of Kaiserslautern, Erwin-Schrödinger Straße, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Flemming Ekelund
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leonardo D Fernández
- Centro de Investigación en Recursos Naturales y Sustentabilidad (CIRENYS), Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Avenida Viel 1497, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alexandre Jousset
- Department of Ecology and Biodiversity, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Valentyna Krashevska
- University of Göttingen, J.F. Blumenbach Institute of Zoology and Anthropology, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - David Singer
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, Neuchâtel 2000, Switzerland
| | - Frederick W Spiegel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, United States of America
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Medical University, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Enrique Lara
- Laboratory of Soil Biodiversity, University of Neuchâtel, Rue Emile-Argand 11, Neuchâtel 2000, Switzerland
- Real Jardín Botánico, CSIC, Plaza de Murillo 2, 28014 Madrid, Spain
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Curi NHA, Paschoal AMO, Massara RL, Santos HA, Guimarães MP, Passamani M, Chiarello AG. Risk factors for gastrointestinal parasite infections of dogs living around protected areas of the Atlantic Forest: implications for human and wildlife health. BRAZ J BIOL 2016; 77:388-395. [PMID: 27533731 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.19515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the ubiquity of domestic dogs, their role as zoonotic reservoirs and the large number of studies concerning parasites in urban dogs, rural areas in Brazil, especially those at the wildlife-domestic animal-human interface, have received little attention from scientists and public health managers. This paper reports a cross-sectional epidemiological survey of gastrointestinal parasites of rural dogs living in farms around Atlantic Forest fragments. Through standard parasitological methods (flotation and sedimentation), 13 parasite taxa (11 helminths and two protozoans) were found in feces samples from dogs. The most prevalent were the nematode Ancylostoma (47%) followed by Toxocara (18%) and Trichuris (8%). Other less prevalent (<2%) parasites found were Capillaria, Ascaridia, Spirocerca, Taeniidae, Acantocephala, Ascaris, Dipylidium caninum, Toxascaris, and the protozoans Cystoisospora and Eimeria. Mixed infections were found in 36% of samples, mostly by Ancylostoma and Toxocara. Previous deworming had no association with infections, meaning that this preventive measure is being incorrectly performed by owners. Regarding risk factors, dogs younger than one year were more likely to be infected with Toxocara, and purebred dogs with Trichuris. The number of cats in the households was positively associated with Trichuris infection, while male dogs and low body scores were associated with mixed infections. The lack of associations with dog free-ranging behavior and access to forest or villages indicates that infections are mostly acquired around the households. The results highlight the risk of zoonotic and wildlife parasite infections from dogs and the need for monitoring and controlling parasites of domestic animals in human-wildlife interface areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- N H A Curi
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Laboratório de Ecologia de Mamíferos, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras - UFLA, Avenida Doutor Sylvio Menicucci, 1001, Kennedy, CEP 37200-000, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - A M O Paschoal
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia, Conservação e Manejo da Vida Selvagem, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - R L Massara
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia, Conservação e Manejo da Vida Selvagem, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - H A Santos
- Laboratório de Helmintologia, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M P Guimarães
- Laboratório de Helmintologia, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M Passamani
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia Aplicada, Laboratório de Ecologia de Mamíferos, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras - UFLA, Avenida Doutor Sylvio Menicucci, 1001, Kennedy, CEP 37200-000, Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - A G Chiarello
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Avenida Luigi Rosiello, s/n, Subsetor Oeste 11, CEP 14051-090, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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da Silva JB, Piva C, Falavigna-Guilherme AL, Rossoni DF, de Ornelas Toledo MJ. Spatial distribution and enteroparasite contamination in peridomiciliar soil and water in the Apucaraninha Indigenous Land, southern Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:217. [PMID: 26960764 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5216-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence and distribution of soil and water samples contaminated with enteroparasites of humans and animals with zoonotic potential (EHAZP) in Apucaraninha Indigenous Land (AIL), southern Brazil, was evaluated. An environmental survey was conducted to evaluate the presence of parasitic forms in peridomiciliary soil and associated variables. Soil samples were collected from 40/293 domiciles (10 domiciles per season), from November 2010 to June 2011, and evaluated by modified methods of Faust et al. and Lutz. Analyses of water from seven consumption sites were also performed. The overall prevalence of soil samples contaminated by EHAZP was 23.8 %. The most prevalent parasitic forms were cyst of Entamoeba spp. and eggs of Ascaris spp. The highest prevalence of contaminated soil samples was observed in winter (31 %). The probability map obtained with geostatistical analyses showed an average of 47 % soil contamination at a distance of approximately 140 m. The parasitological analysis of water did not detect Giardia spp. or Cryptosporidium spp. and showed that all collection points were within the standards of the Brazilian law. However, the microbiological analysis showed the presence of Escherichia coli in 6/7 sampled points. Despite the low level of contamination by EHAZP in peridomiciliar soil and the absence of pathogenic protozoa in water, the AIL soil and water (due to the presence of fecal coliforms) are potential sources of infection for the population, indicating the need for improvements in sanitation and water treatment, in addition periodic treatment of the population with antiparasitic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseane Balan da Silva
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Basic Health Sciences at the State University of Maringá (UEM), Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences at the UEM, Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Camila Piva
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences at the UEM, Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia Falavigna-Guilherme
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Basic Health Sciences at the State University of Maringá (UEM), Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences at the UEM, Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Diogo Francisco Rossoni
- Department of Statistics, Exact Sciences Center at the UEM, Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Max Jean de Ornelas Toledo
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Basic Health Sciences at the State University of Maringá (UEM), Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil.
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Sciences at the UEM, Avenida Colombo, 5790 - Jardim Universitário, Maringá, Paraná, 87020-900, Brazil.
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Collender PA, Kirby AE, Addiss DG, Freeman MC, Remais JV. Methods for Quantification of Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Environmental Media: Current Techniques and Recent Advances. Trends Parasitol 2015; 31:625-639. [PMID: 26440788 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2015.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Limiting the environmental transmission of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), which infect 1.5 billion people worldwide, will require sensitive, reliable, and cost-effective methods to detect and quantify STHs in the environment. We review the state-of-the-art of STH quantification in soil, biosolids, water, produce, and vegetation with regard to four major methodological issues: environmental sampling; recovery of STHs from environmental matrices; quantification of recovered STHs; and viability assessment of STH ova. We conclude that methods for sampling and recovering STHs require substantial advances to provide reliable measurements for STH control. Recent innovations in the use of automated image identification and developments in molecular genetic assays offer considerable promise for improving quantification and viability assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip A Collender
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amy E Kirby
- Center for Global Safe Water, Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Matthew C Freeman
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Justin V Remais
- Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Environmental contamination with Toxocara eggs and seroprevalence of toxocariasis in children of northeastern Poland. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:205-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4736-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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A Comparative Seroprevalence Study of Toxocariasis in Hypereosinophilic and Apparently Healthy Individuals. ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2014. [DOI: 10.5812/pedinfect.17911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Li L, Gao W, Yang X, Wu D, Bi H, Zhang S, Huang M, Yao X. Asthma and toxocariasis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2014; 113:187-92. [PMID: 24934109 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children and a major public health problem in adults. A relation between asthma and toxocariasis has been hypothesized. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the strength of association between asthma and Toxocara species seropositivity by conducting a systematic review and a meta-analysis of available data. METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the reference lists of all relevant articles and books were screened until October 2013. Two authors independently assessed eligibility and study quality and extracted data. A common odds ratio was estimated using a random-effects meta-analysis model of aggregated published data. RESULTS Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, for a total of 1,530 participants (723 cases and 807 controls). This meta-analysis found a significantly higher prevalence of Toxocara canis infection in patients with asthma than in controls (odds ratio 3.36, 95% confidence interval 1.76-6.42, P < .001). Similar results were found when meta-analysis was restricted to the studies considering only children or adults. CONCLUSION The results support the existence of a positive association between asthma and Toxocara species seropositivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dandan Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Bi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sini Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mao Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Yao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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Zonta ML, Oyhenart EE, Navone GT. Socio‐environmental variables associated with malnutrition and intestinal parasitoses in the child population of Misiones, Argentina. Am J Hum Biol 2014; 26:609-16. [DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.22570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- María L. Zonta
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE), UNLP‐CCT CONICETLa Plata Argentina
| | - Evelia E. Oyhenart
- Cátedra de Antropología Biológica IVFacultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo, UNLPLa Plata Argentina
- Instituto de Genética Veterinaria “Ing. Fernando Noel Dulout” (IGEVET), FCV, UNLP‐CCT CONICETLa Plata Argentina
| | - Graciela T. Navone
- Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE), UNLP‐CCT CONICETLa Plata Argentina
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Risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis in populations of children from nine cities in southern Brazil. J Helminthol 2014; 89:428-32. [PMID: 24725417 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x14000212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the epidemiological factors that contribute to the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Toxocara spp. in children from Paraná state, Brazil. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to T. gondii were detected using indirect immunofluorescence, and IgG antibodies to Toxocara were detected using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. For each individual, a questionnaire was completed that contained epidemiological and clinical data. The data analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression. Of the 544 children investigated, 3.2% presented co-infection with T. gondii and Toxocara spp. Of this total, 7.4% were positive for antibodies to T. gondii, and 25% were positive for antibodies to Toxocara spp. The presence of antibodies to Toxocara spp. increased the risk of T. gondii infection (P = 0.029). Children who were 1-8 years of age were less infected by T. gondii than those who were 9-12 years of age. The variables that influenced positivity for anti-Toxocara spp. were the origin of the children and contact with sand. Children with positive serology for Toxocara spp. presented more eosinophilia compared with those with non-reactive serology. Infection with both parasites reveals the need for preventive measures, such as guidance about modes of infection, parasite control and monitoring recreational areas.
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Dantas-Torres F, Otranto D. Dogs, cats, parasites, and humans in Brazil: opening the black box. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:22. [PMID: 24423244 PMCID: PMC3914713 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 12/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Dogs and cats in Brazil serve as primary hosts for a considerable number of parasites, which may affect their health and wellbeing. These may include endoparasites (e.g., protozoa, cestodes, trematodes, and nematodes) and ectoparasites (i.e., fleas, lice, mites, and ticks). While some dog and cat parasites are highly host-specific (e.g., Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Felicola subrostratus for cats, and Angiostrongylus vasorum and Trichodectes canis for dogs), others may easily switch to other hosts, including humans. In fact, several dog and cat parasites (e.g., Toxoplasma gondii, Dipylidium caninum, Ancylostoma caninum, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Toxocara canis) are important not only from a veterinary perspective but also from a medical standpoint. In addition, some of them (e.g., Lynxacarus radovskyi on cats and Rangelia vitalii in dogs) are little known to most veterinary practitioners working in Brazil. This article is a compendium on dog and cat parasites in Brazil and a call for a One Health approach towards a better management of some of these parasites, which may potentially affect humans. Practical aspects related to the diagnosis, treatment, and control of parasitic diseases of dogs and cats in Brazil are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Dantas-Torres
- Department of Immunology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Centre, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife Pernambuco 50670420, Brazil.
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Santarém VA, Pereira VC, Alegre BCP. Contamination of public parks in Presidente Prudente (São Paulo, Brazil) by Toxocara spp. eggs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 21:323-5. [PMID: 23070451 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612012000300029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate soil contamination by Toxocara spp. eggs in public parks in Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil. Soil samples (500 g) were collected every month over a 12-month period, from 25 parks in different parts of the city (northern, southern, eastern, western and central areas). Two 10-g aliquots of the material collected from each park were subjected to the centrifuge-flotation method to recover Toxocara spp. eggs. Twenty-four out of the 25 squares studied (96.0%) were contaminated and the number of eggs recovered ranged from 1 to 398 per sample. Eggs were recovered all over the year. Despite the number being greater in autumn (p < 0.001), there was no correlation between number egg number and average monthly temperature (r = -0.492; p = 0.148) or between egg number and monthly rainfall (r = -0.299; p = 0.402). Park localization does not influence egg presence (p = 0.7116). Because of the high level of contamination of the parks by Toxocara spp. eggs, prevention of contamination of public areas by larva migrans agents is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine II (Animal Parasitology), Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidade do Oeste Paulista, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil.
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Mendonça LR, Figueiredo CA, Esquivel R, Fiaccone RL, Pontes-de-Carvalho L, Cooper P, Barreto ML, Alcantara-Neves NM. Seroprevalence and risk factors for Toxocara infection in children from an urban large setting in Northeast Brazil. Acta Trop 2013; 128:90-5. [PMID: 23845771 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Revised: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to standardize an "in house" immunoassay to detect anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies in human serum to estimate the seroprevalence of Toxocara infection, and to identify its potential risk factors in children living in poor areas of Salvador, a large northeastern Brazilian city. METHODS Parents of 1309 children answered a questionnaire containing possible risk factor for acquisition of this infection. Blood was collected and the presence of anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies was detected by indirect ELISA using T. canis larval excretory-secretory antigens in sera previously absorbed with Ascaris lumbricoides antigens. RESULTS Seroprevalence of Toxocara infection was 48.4%. Children's age, low maternal schooling, contact with dogs and cats, and household located in paved streets were shown to be risk factors for Toxocara infection. CONCLUSIONS The seroprevalence of Toxocara infection is high among children living in a poor urban setting of Brazil. The association of low maternal education with higher Toxocara infection supports studies showing that low socioeconomic status is a risk factor for the acquisition of this infection as a reflection of hygiene habits of the family. And both infected-dogs and cats may be involved in this parasite transmission in this children population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia R Mendonça
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Av. Reitor Miguel Calmon, s/n. Canela, Salvador, Bahia, CEP: 40110-902, Brazil.
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Identification of public areas with potential toxocariasis transmission risk using geographical information systems. Acta Parasitol 2013; 58:328-33. [PMID: 23990430 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-013-0142-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Geographic information system (GIS) or Health geography is a geographical identification of the spatial variation of contagion disease and zoonosis risk in certain conditions. OBJECTIVE Comparing the variation of environmental contamination of Toxocara spp. sands of lawns and public areas through the Geographic Information System. MATERIALS AND METHODS Were investigated 98% of Parana recreational urban areas such as, schools, public parks and squares filled with sand and/or lawn. Samples were analyzed using zinc sulphate solution centrifuge-flotation, density 1.420, and water sedimentation. Maps were developed by ESRI Arc GIS 9.2. RESULTS Total 77/98 (78,6%) of public spaces shown Toxocara spp. eggs presence. No significant difference was observed (p = 0,9999) between eggs prevalence in sand 44/56 (78,6%), and lawn 33/42 (78,6%), at school (p = 0,6898) and squares (p = 0,0616). Egg contamination prevailed in periphery areas in the sand 20/27 (74%) and lawn 18/21 (86%). However, no significant difference was observed between sand and lawn contamination from schools and parks to central and peripheral areas. Although schools 62/66 (93,9%) presented a higher number of enclosed spaces, did not provide a lower frequency of pollution (p = 0,3327). CONCLUSION GIS observed a scattered pattern of zoonosis among schools and public squares sand and lawns, with predominance of contamination in the peripheral areas with presence of dogs/cats.
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Guilherme EV, Marchioro AA, Araujo SM, Falavigna DLM, Adami C, Falavigna-Guilherme G, Rubinsky-Elefant G, Falavigna-Guilherme AL. Toxocariasis in children attending a Public Health Service Pneumology Unit in Paraná State, Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2013; 55:S0036-46652013000300189. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652013000300009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is the most widely used tool to detect anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies for both serodiagnostic and seroepidemiological surveys on human toxocariasis. In the last eight years a high prevalence of toxocariasis (32.2-56.0%) has been reported in children attending public health units from municipalities in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Therefore, the aim of this work was to compare the frequency found among the general child population with that of children attending a public pneumology service in Maringá, Paraná, Brazil and describe the laboratorial, clinical and epidemiological findings. The research was conducted at the Consórcio Público Intermunicipal de Saúde do Setentrião Paranaense (CISAMUSEP) from July 2009 to July 2010 among children aged between one and 15 years. From a total of 167 children studied, only 4.2% (7/167) tested positive for anti-Toxocara spp. IgG antibodies and presented mild eosinophilia (2/7), increased serum IgE levels (6/7) and a positive allergy test for mites (5/7). The presence of pets (dogs or cats) at home did not correlate with the seroprevalence. In conclusion, cases of toxocariasis involving the respiratory tract are rare in children attending a public health pneumology unit in the northwestern region of Paraná State, despite the high prevalence of this type of toxocariasis among the infantile population attending Basic Health Units in the same geographical area.
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Ferreira EC, Marchioro AA, Guedes TA, Mota DCGA, Guilherme ALF, de Araujo SM. Association between seropositivity for Toxoplasma gondii, scholastic development of children and risk factors for T. gondii infection. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2013; 107:390-6. [DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trt026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Moura MQD, Jeske S, Vieira JN, Corrêa TG, Berne MEA, Villela MM. Frequency of geohelminths in public squares in Pelotas, RS, Brazil. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2013; 22:175-8. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612013000100034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The frequency of parasitic contamination of public areas in the municipality of Pelotas, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, was studied between June 2010 and May 2011, when soil samples were collected from eight city squares. Out of 400 samples submitted to centrifugal floatation technique in solution of sodium dichromate with density of 1.35, 176 (44%) proved positive for at least one parasite; 29 (16.5%) samples were multi-infested. The results showed that there was a significant soil contamination rate in all the parks included in the study. The positivity rate was higher for hookworms eggs (13.5%) andToxocara eggs (8.8%);Trichuris, Ascaris andCapillaria eggs were also detected. This study shows the risks to which the population is exposed in relation to zoonotic geohelminths, and suggests that sanitation and health education measures should be implemented in the municipality.
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Marques JP, Guimarães CDR, Boas AV, Carnaúba PU, Moraes JD. Contamination of public parks and squares from Guarulhos (São Paulo State, Brazil ) by Toxocara spp. and Ancylostoma spp. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2012; 54:267-71. [PMID: 22983290 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652012000500006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2012] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The contaminated soil with mammal feces is an important factor of risk to infection with zoonotic diseases. Amongst these zoonoses are visceral larva migrans and cutaneous larva migrans caused by Toxocara spp. and Ancylostoma spp., respectively. The aim of this study was to assess the environmental contamination by Toxocara spp. eggs and hookworms (Ancylostoma spp.) in public parks and squares in the city of Guarulhos, a metropolitan area of São Paulo, São Paulo State, Brazil. Soil samples were collected, between September and December 2010, and examined using the centrifugal flotation technique with sodium dichromate and zinc sulphate as well as the modified Baermann method. Notably, 35 (74.5%) of the 47 districts surveyed in Guarulhos possessed samples contaminated with Toxocara spp. and/or eggs or larvae of Ancylostoma spp. The frequency of Toxocara spp. and Ancylostoma spp. in the samples from public areas was 68.1% and 46.8%, respectively. Overall, the eastern side of Guarulhos is the region with the highest occurrence of causative agents of larva migrans. In all collection sites, the presence of feces from dogs and cats accompanied by their owners and stray animals were observed. Notably, it is important to adopt measures to control dog and cat breeding, to treat infected animals, and provide health education to the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacó Pereira Marques
- Supervisão de Vigilância em Saúde, SUVIS Casa Verde, Secretaria de Saúde da Cidade de São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Trejo CAC, Romero Núñez C, García Contreras ADC, Mendoza Barrera GE. Soil contamination by Toxocara spp. eggs in a University in Mexico City. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2012; 21:298-300. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612012000300022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The contamination levels of Toxocara spp. eggs in soil samples from a university campus in Mexico City were evaluated and analysed according to garden size, and were related with the percentage of Toxocara spp. eggs and its viability according to the soil characteristics. A total of 1458 soil samples collected in 15 gardens (six large and nine small) were analysed by sedimentation-flotation with zinc sulphate solution on at 33%. Contamination was low (12.9%), and egg viability was high (65.5%). The size of the garden had no influence on the presence and viability of Toxocara spp. eggs. Contamination was negatively correlated with the percentage of vegetation (r = -0. 61, P < 0.01) and the viability was negatively associated with the percentage of clay in the soil samples (r = -0.51, P < 0.04). The size of the garden did not influence the presence and viability of Toxocara spp. eggs.
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Adaptation of Ritchie's Method for Parasites Diagnosing with Minimization of Chemical Products. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2012; 2012:409757. [PMID: 22934108 PMCID: PMC3425788 DOI: 10.1155/2012/409757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 07/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Latin America, Africa, and Asia present wide dissemination and high prevalence rates of waterborne parasitic diseases, which is a strong indicative of the fragility of public sanitation systems. In this context, parasitological analyses represent extremely relevant instruments. Several parasite diagnosis methods exist, among which Ritchie's method (1948) stands out. This method uses formaldehyde and ether, two reagents of toxicological importance that can cause damages to environmental and occupational health. The present study aimed to compare Ritchie's method modified by Régis Anécimo, without use of solvents, with the traditional Ritchie's method, routinely used for helminth and protozoa diagnosing in Brazil. Some changes were introduced in the modified method, such as controlled increase of water temperature used after stool dilution and substitution of formaldehyde and ether by a neutral detergent before material centrifugation for observation of parasites. In examined samples by both methods, multiple infections were commonly observed; the modified method presented a similar sensitivity to identify the parasites. The development of analytic diagnosis methods that minimize the use of chemical products like ether and formaldehyde represents an important tool to prevent occupational diseases among exposed professionals, as well as to preserve environmental quality through the use of clean techniques.
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Quattrocchi G, Nicoletti A, Marin B, Bruno E, Druet-Cabanac M, Preux PM. Toxocariasis and epilepsy: systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1775. [PMID: 22905274 PMCID: PMC3419195 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Human toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by the larval stages of Toxocara canis (T. canis) and less frequently Toxocara cati (T. cati). A relationship between toxocariasis and epilepsy has been hypothesized. We conducted a systematic review and a meta-analysis of available data to evaluate the strength of association between epilepsy and Toxocara spp. seropositivity and to propose some guidelines for future surveys. Data Sources Electronic databases, the database from the Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology of the University of Limoges (http://www-ient.unilim.fr/) and the reference lists of all relevant papers and books were screened up to October 2011. Methods We performed a systematic review of literature on toxocariasis (the exposure) and epilepsy (the outcome). Two authors independently assessed eligibility and study quality and extracted data. A common odds ratio (OR) was estimated using a random-effects meta-analysis model of aggregated published data. Results Seven case-control studies met the inclusion criteria, for a total of 1867 participants (850 cases and 1017 controls). The percentage of seropositivity (presence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies) was higher among people with epilepsy (PWE) in all the included studies even if the association between epilepsy and Toxocara spp. seropositivity was statistically significant in only 4 studies, with crude ORs ranging 2.04–2.85. Another study bordered statistical significance, while in 2 of the included studies no significant association was found. A significant (p<0.001) common OR of 1.92 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.50–2.44] was estimated. Similar results were found when meta-analysis was restricted to the studies considering an exclusively juvenile population and to surveys using Western Blot as confirmatory or diagnostic serological assay. Conclusion Our results support the existence of a positive association between Toxocara spp. seropositivity and epilepsy. Further studies, possibly including incident cases, should be performed to better investigate the relationship between toxocariasis and epilepsy. Human toxocariasis is an infection caused by the larval stage of the worms Toxocara canis and less frequently Toxocara cati, common parasites of domestic and peridomestic dogs and cats. It is a cosmopolitan infection, occurring whenever the man-soil-dog relationship is particularly close, especially in tropical countries, where the humid climate favours the survival of parasite eggs in the soil, and in rural settings, where the poor hygiene increases the probability of human infection. Epilepsy affects nowadays at least 65 million of people worldwide and is particularly common in tropical areas, probably because of the presence of cases caused by infectious diseases largely absent in industrialized countries. For several decades, researchers have investigated the possible association between toxocariasis and epilepsy. In this study we conducted a statistical analysis of all the data available on the relationship between these two conditions. The combined results of the 7 studies included indicate an association between the two diseases. Further studies are necessary to demonstrate a causal relationship (i.e. toxocariasis causes epilepsy). Considering that toxocariasis is a preventable and common disease, a better understanding of the relationship between toxocariasis and epilepsy may contribute to improving prevention of epilepsy worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graziella Quattrocchi
- Department GF Ingrassia, Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandra Nicoletti
- Department GF Ingrassia, Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Benoit Marin
- INSERM U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Limoges, France
- CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- CHU Limoges, France
| | - Elisa Bruno
- Department GF Ingrassia, Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Michel Druet-Cabanac
- INSERM U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Limoges, France
- CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- CHU Limoges, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- INSERM U1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France
- University of Limoges, School of Medicine, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, Limoges, France
- CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
- CHU Limoges, France
- * E-mail:
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31
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Manini MP, Marchioro AA, Colli CM, Nishi L, Falavigna-Guilherme AL. Association between contamination of public squares and seropositivity for Toxocara spp. in children. Vet Parasitol 2012; 188:48-52. [PMID: 22480882 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Revised: 03/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A concomitant study was carried out, of the association of positive serology for Toxocara spp. in 90 children who played in public squares used for leisure, with the frequency with which each child used these areas, and the presence of eggs of Toxocara spp. in the sand or grass in these locations. The sand and grass of their peridomiciles and school playgrounds, as well as the feces of their dogs were also analyzed for Toxocara. Serum samples were tested for IgG antibodies to Toxocara canis excreted-secreted larval antigens by ELISA, and blood samples for eosinophilia. The water-sedimentation technique was used to evaluate the presence of parasite eggs in the sand and grass turfs, and in feces of the dogs that also frequented these locations. 16/90 (17.8%) of the children were seropositive for Toxocara spp. There was a positive association between seropositivity in children who played in the public squares six or seven times a week, with a parasite load above 1.1 eggs/g of sand, as well as with contamination of the peridomicile, even at less than 1.0 egg/g of sand. Eosinophilia, the habit of geophagy, age from one to four years, and the presence of parasitized pet dogs were also positively correlated with seropositivity in the children. Eggs were found in 15/15 (100%) of the public squares, 17/90 (18.9%) of the peridomiciles, 3/13 (23.1%) of the schools, and 12/41 (29.3%) of the dogs living in the peridomiciles investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos P Manini
- Laboratory of General and Clinical Parasitology, University of Paraná (UNIPAR), Praça Mascarenhas de Moraes s/n 87501-000, Umuarama, PR, Brazil
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Shibata T, Solo-Gabriele HM. Quantitative microbial risk assessment of human illness from exposure to marine beach sand. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2012; 46:2799-805. [PMID: 22296573 PMCID: PMC9785598 DOI: 10.1021/es203638x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Currently no U.S. federal guideline is available for assessing risk of illness from sand at recreational sites. The objectives of this study were to compute a reference level guideline for pathogens in beach sand and to compare these reference levels with measurements from a beach impacted by nonpoint sources of contamination. Reference levels were computed using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) coupled with Monte Carlo simulations. In order to reach an equivalent level of risk of illness as set by the U.S. EPA for marine water exposure (1.9 × 10(-2)), levels would need to be at least about 10 oocysts/g (about 1 oocyst/g for a pica child) for Cryptosporidium, about 5 MPN/g (about 1 MPN/g for pica) for enterovirus, and less than 10(6) CFU/g for S. aureus. Pathogen levels measured in sand at a nonpoint source recreational beach were lower than the reference levels. More research is needed in evaluating risk from yeast and helminth exposures as well as in identifying acceptable levels of risk for skin infections associated with sand exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Shibata
- Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability, & Energy and School of Nursing & Health Studies, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois, United States.
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Xavier RP, Siqueira LP, Vital FAC, Rocha FJS, Irmão JI, Calazans GMT. Microbiological quality of drinking rainwater in the inland region of Pajeú, Pernambuco, Northeast Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2011; 53:121-4. [PMID: 21755232 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652011000300001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2010] [Accepted: 02/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite all efforts to store and reduce its consumption, water is becoming less inexhaustible and its quality is falling faster. Considering that water is essential to animal life, it is necessary to adopt measures to ensure its sanitary conditions in order to be fit for consumption. The aim of this study was to analyze the microbiological quality of drinking rainwater used by rural communities of Tuparetama, a small town located in Northeast Brazil. The study covered seven rural communities, totaling 66 households. In each household two samples were collected, one from a tank and the other from a clay pot located inside the home, resulting in 132 samples (tank plus clay pot). Approximately 90% of samples were below the standard recommended by the current legislation, being considered unfit for human consumption. Part of this high microbiological contamination of drinking rainwater could be related to the lack of sanitary education and of an adequate sewerage sanitation system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogério Pereira Xavier
- Departamento de Antibióticos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil
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Seroprevalence of Toxocara infection in children and environmental contamination of urban areas in Paraná State, Brazil. J Helminthol 2011; 86:440-5. [PMID: 22114910 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x11000666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to evaluate the contamination by eggs of Toxocara in sandy areas or grass lawns of outdoor recreation areas that are used by children, and the frequency of seroprevalence in children, from three cities of fewer than 45,000 inhabitants in Paraná, Brazil. From May 2005 to December 2007, five samples were taken from each of 13 sandy sites and 18 grass lawns, all from plazas and public schools. Blood samples from children aged 0-12 years were analysed by immunoassay for anti-Toxocara IgG. The soil samples were processed by floatation and sedimentation. Eggs of Toxocara spp. were present in 44.7% (38/85) of the samples from grassed areas and in 21.4% (15/70) of the sand samples. The lawns were 2.16 times more contaminated than the sand (P = 0.0009). However, the epidemiological variables showed no statistically significant difference between seropositive (36.8%; 130/353), and seronegative children. The rate of seropositivity was higher in children aged 0-5 years (P = 0.03), who were 1.94 times more likely to develop persistent wheezing (P = 0.02).
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Cassenote AJF, Pinto Neto JM, Lima-Catelani ARDA, Ferreira AW. [Soil contamination by eggs of soil-transmitted helminths with zoonotic potential in the town of Fernandópolis, State of São Paulo, Brazil, between 2007 and 2008]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2011; 44:371-4. [PMID: 21552740 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822011005000026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The concentration of dogs and cats in urban areas, associated with an ever-increasing wandering population of these animals, has an important epidemiological role in the soil contamination of public spaces and the spread of infections of several types of parasites. This study aimed to determine the frequency of soil-transmitted helminths with zoonotic potential in public squares and municipal primary schools in Fernandópolis, State of São Paulo, Brazil, conducted between 2007 and 2008. METHODS All the squares (32) and schools (13) in the town were evaluated. Soil samples were tested using the Rugai method modified by Willis, Caldwell and Caldwell. RESULTS A total of 225 soil samples were evaluated and 30.2% (68) were positive for helminths. In samples from public squares, 40% (64) contamination was observed; however, contamination in schools was only 6.1% (6). The parasites eggs identified were Toxocara spp. 79.3% (47), Trichuris spp. 13.8% (8) and Ancylostomatidae 6.9% (4). Variables related to the site, such as the number of dogs (OR 21.18, 10.81 - 41.51), fecal samples (OR 6.87, 3.51 - 13.47) and the use of fences (OR 0.1, 0.05 - 0.20), had an impact on soil contamination. CONCLUSIONS In the contaminated samples, parasites with zoonotic potential were identified, including the etiologic agents of diseases like cutaneous and visceral larva migrans, a fact that poses a risk to health of the population that frequent such environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Jones Flores Cassenote
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP.
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Amaral HLDC, Rassier GL, Pepe MS, Gallina T, Villela MM, Nobre MDO, Scaini CJ, Berne MEA. Presence of Toxocara canis eggs on the hair of dogs: A risk factor for Visceral Larva Migrans. Vet Parasitol 2010; 174:115-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2010] [Revised: 07/20/2010] [Accepted: 07/24/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Colli CM, Rubinsky-Elefant G, Paludo ML, Falavigna DLM, Guilherme EV, Mattia S, Araújo SM, Ferreira EC, Previdelli ITS, Falavigna-Guilherme AL. Serological, clinical and epidemiological evaluation of toxocariasis in urban areas of south Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2010; 52:69-74. [PMID: 20464126 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652010000200002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2009] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a worldwide public-health problem that poses major risks to children who may accidentally ingest embryonated eggs of Toxocara. The objectives of this study were to investigate the occurrence of anti-Toxocara spp. antibodies in children and adolescents and the variables that may be involved, as well as environmental contamination by Toxocara spp. eggs, in urban recreation areas of north central mesoregion, Paraná State, Brazil. From June 2005 to March 2007. a total of 376 blood samples were collected by the Public Health Service from children and adolescents one to 12 years old, of both genders. Samples were analyzed by the indirect ELISA method for detection of anti-Toxocara antibodies. Serum samples were previously absorbed with Ascaris suum antigens, and considered positive with a reagent reactivity index >1. Soil samples from all of the public squares and schools located in the four evaluated municipalities that had sand surfaces (n = 19) or lawns (n = 15) were analyzed. Of the 376 serum samples, 194 (51.6%) were positive. The seroprevalence rate was substantially higher among children aging one to five years (p = 0.001) and six to eight years (p = 0.022). The clinical signs and symptoms investigated did not show a statistical difference between seropositive and seronegative individuals (p > 0.05). In 76.5% of the investigated recreation places, eggs of Toxocara were detected in at least one of the five collected samples. Recreation areas from public schools were 2.8 times more contaminated than from public squares. It is important to institute educational programs to inform families and educators, as well as to improve sanitary control of animals and cleaning of the areas intended for recreation in order to prevent toxocariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane M Colli
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brasil, 87020-900
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