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Mafokwane T, Djikeng A, Nesengani LT, Dewar J, Mapholi O. Gastrointestinal Infection in South African Children under the Age of 5 years: A Mini Review. Gastroenterol Res Pract 2023; 2023:1906782. [PMID: 37663241 PMCID: PMC10469397 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1906782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To estimate gastroenteritis disease and its etiological agents in children under the age of 5 years living in South Africa. Methods A mini literature review of pertinent articles published in ScienceDirect, PubMed, GoogleScholar, and Scopus was conducted using search terms: "Gastroenteritis in children," "Gastroenteritis in the world," Gastroenteritis in South Africa," "Prevalence of gastroenteritis," "Epidemiological surveillance of gastroenteritis in the world," and "Causes of gastroenteritis". Results A total of 174 published articles were included in this mini review. In the last 20 years, the mortality rate resulting from diarrhea in children under the age of 5 years has declined and this is influenced by improved hygiene practices, awareness programs, an improved water and sanitation supply, and the availability of vaccines. More modern genomic amplification techniques were used to re-analyze stool specimens collected from children in eight low-resource settings in Asia, South America, and Africa reported improved sensitivity of pathogen detection to about 65%, that viruses were the main etiological agents in patients with diarrhea aged from 0 to 11 months but that Shigella, followed by sapovirus and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli had a high incidence in children aged 12-24 months. In addition, co-infections were noted in nearly 10% of diarrhea cases, with rotavirus and Shigella being the main co-infecting agents together with adenovirus, enteropathogenic E. coli, Clostridium jejuni, or Clostridium coli. Conclusions This mini review outlines the epidemiology and trends relating to parasitic, viral, and bacterial agents responsible for gastroenteritis in children in South Africa. An increase in sequence-independent diagnostic approaches will improve the identification of pathogens to resolve undiagnosed cases of gastroenteritis. Emerging state and national surveillance systems should focus on improving the identification of gastrointestinal pathogens in children and the development of further vaccines against gastrointestinal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tshepo Mafokwane
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Appolinaire Djikeng
- Department of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lucky T. Nesengani
- Department of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - John Dewar
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Olivia Mapholi
- Department of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa Science Campus, Florida, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Sardinha-Silva A, Alves-Ferreira EVC, Grigg ME. Intestinal immune responses to commensal and pathogenic protozoa. Front Immunol 2022; 13:963723. [PMID: 36211380 PMCID: PMC9533738 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.963723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The physical barrier of the intestine and associated mucosal immunity maintains a delicate homeostatic balance between the host and the external environment by regulating immune responses to commensals, as well as functioning as the first line of defense against pathogenic microorganisms. Understanding the orchestration and characteristics of the intestinal mucosal immune response during commensal or pathological conditions may provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying microbe-induced immunological tolerance, protection, and/or pathogenesis. Over the last decade, our knowledge about the interface between the host intestinal mucosa and the gut microbiome has been dominated by studies focused on bacterial communities, helminth parasites, and intestinal viruses. In contrast, specifically how commensal and pathogenic protozoa regulate intestinal immunity is less well studied. In this review, we provide an overview of mucosal immune responses induced by intestinal protozoa, with a major focus on the role of different cell types and immune mediators triggered by commensal (Blastocystis spp. and Tritrichomonas spp.) and pathogenic (Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia intestinalis, Cryptosporidium parvum) protozoa. We will discuss how these various protozoa modulate innate and adaptive immune responses induced in experimental models of infection that benefit or harm the host.
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Stunting as a Risk Factor of Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis in Children: A Literature Review. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2022; 2022:8929025. [PMID: 35967932 PMCID: PMC9365611 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8929025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As a high-burden neglected tropical disease, soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections remain a major problem in the world, especially among children under five years of age. Since young children are at high risk of being infected, STH infection can have a long-term negative impact on their life, including impaired growth and development. Stunting, a form of malnutrition in young children, has been long assumed as one of the risk factors in acquiring the STH infections. However, the studies on STH infection in children under five with stunting have been lacking, resulting in poor identification of the risk. Accordingly, we collected and reviewed existing related research articles to provide an overview of STH infection in a susceptible population of stunted children under five years of age in terms of prevalence and risk factors. There were 17 studies included in this review related to infection with Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworm, and Strongyloides stercoralis from various countries. The prevalence of STH infection in stunted children ranged from 12.5% to 56.5%. Increased inflammatory markers and intestinal microbiota dysbiosis might have increased the intensity of STH infection in stunted children that caused impairment in the immune system. While the age from 2 to 5 years along with poor hygiene and sanitation has shown to be the most common risk factors of STH infections in stunted children; currently there are no studies that show direct results of stunting as a risk factor for STH infection. While stunting itself may affect the pathogenesis of STH infection, further research on stunting as a risk factor for STH infection is encouraged.
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Solaymani-Mohammadi S. Mucosal Defense Against Giardia at the Intestinal Epithelial Cell Interface. Front Immunol 2022; 13:817468. [PMID: 35250996 PMCID: PMC8891505 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.817468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Human giardiasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis (syn. Giardia lamblia, Giardia intestinalis, Lamblia intestinalis), is one of the most commonly-identified parasitic diseases worldwide. Chronic G. duodenalis infections cause a malabsorption syndrome that may lead to failure to thrive and/or stunted growth, especially in children in developing countries. Understanding the parasite/epithelial cell crosstalk at the mucosal surfaces of the small intestine during human giardiasis may provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the parasite-induced immunopathology and epithelial tissue damage, leading to malnutrition. Efforts to identify new targets for intervening in the development of intestinal immunopathology and the progression to malnutrition are critical. Translating these findings into a clinical setting will require analysis of these pathways in cells and tissues from humans and clinical trials could be devised to determine whether interfering with unwanted mucosal immune responses developed during human giardiasis provide better therapeutic benefits and clinical outcomes for G. duodenalis infections in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Solaymani-Mohammadi
- Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
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Byrne A, Rosário A, da Conceição Ferreira M, de Jesus Trovoada Dos Santos M, Rollinson D, Vaz Nery S. Progress towards control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases targeted by preventive chemotherapy in São Tomé e Príncipe. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 116:446-453. [PMID: 34718820 PMCID: PMC8574488 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trab153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The São Tomé e Príncipe government is committed to achieving neglected tropical disease (NTD) control and elimination as a public health problem by 2025. In 2014, the Ministry of Health led a national survey to determine the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and schistosomiasis across the country. Following this survey, a preventive chemotherapy (PC) campaign with mebendazole and praziquantel reached 31 501 school-age children in 2015. A follow-up 2017 survey to determine the impact of the intervention showed success in controlling schistosomiasis, as no infections were found, but limited impact on STHs, with prevalence similar to pretreatment levels. The survey also investigated the prevalence of a third NTD, lymphatic filariasis (LF), which was found to be endemic in the country. Since then the Ministry of Health has developed the Strategic Plan for the Fight Against Neglected Tropical Diseases 2019-2025 and identified gaps to be addressed. This narrative review systematises the existing literature reporting on the epidemiology of NTDs for which there are PC programs in São Tomé e Príncipe. PubMed was searched for relevant papers that measured the prevalence of LF, schistosomiasis and STHs. Additionally, data provided by the Ministry of Health surveys were analysed. Finally, we discuss current NTD control, including the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and identify priorities for program strengthening and operational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisling Byrne
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 1466, Australia
| | - Alzira Rosário
- Programa de Controlo de Doenças Tropicais Negligenciadas, Ministério da Saúde, Rua Patrice Lumumba, São Tomé, São Tomé & Príncipe
| | | | | | - David Rollinson
- Global Schistosomiasis Alliance, Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK
| | - Susana Vaz Nery
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 1466, Australia
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Wong LW, Ong KS, Khoo JR, Goh CBS, Hor JW, Lee SM. Human intestinal parasitic infection: a narrative review on global prevalence and epidemiological insights on preventive, therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for future perspectives. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 14:1093-1105. [PMID: 32755242 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2020.1806711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) is a global health concern among socioeconomically deprived communities in many developing countries. Many preventative strategies have been deployed to control IPI, however, there is a lack in standards on the techniques used to diagnose and monitor the prevalence of IPI. AREAS COVERED The present article will review the diseases associated with IPI and discuss the current IPI control strategies such as the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, community-led total sanitation (CLTS) approach, and regular anthelminthic treatments. For the first time, this review will also evaluate all currently practised diagnostic techniques for the detection of intestinal parasites and provide insights on future IPI control strategies. EXPERT OPINION Advanced and improved diagnostic methods such as qPCR coupled with a high-resolution melting curve, aptamers, biosensors, and detection of extracellular vesicles can be used for detection of IPI. Vaccination against intestinal parasites can be made available to increase antibodies to interfere with the blood-feeding process by the parasites, which subsequently reduces the reproductive rates of the parasites. These methods collectively can serve as future management strategies for intestinal parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wen Wong
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Kuan Shion Ong
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.,Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Jun Rong Khoo
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Calvin Bok Sun Goh
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.,Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Jia Wei Hor
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sui Mae Lee
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.,Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia , Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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Gough EK, Moulton LH, Mutasa K, Ntozini R, Stoltzfus RJ, Majo FD, Smith LE, Panic G, Giallourou N, Jamell M, Kosek P, Swann JR, Humphrey JH, Prendergast AJ. Effects of improved water, sanitation, and hygiene and improved complementary feeding on environmental enteric dysfunction in children in rural Zimbabwe: A cluster-randomized controlled trial. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0007963. [PMID: 32059011 PMCID: PMC7046282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) may be an important modifiable cause of child stunting. We described the evolution of EED biomarkers from birth to 18 months in rural Zimbabwe and tested the independent and combined effects of improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and improved infant and young child feeding (IYCF), on EED. METHODOLOGY AND FINDINGS The Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) trial was a 2x2 factorial cluster-randomised trial of improved IYCF and improved WASH on child stunting and anaemia at 18 months of age. 1169 infants born to HIV-negative mothers provided plasma and faecal specimens at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months of age. We measured EED biomarkers that reflect all domains of the hypothesized pathological pathway. Markers of intestinal permeability and intestinal inflammation declined over time, while markers of microbial translocation and systemic inflammation increased between 1-18 months. Markers of intestinal damage (I-FABP) and repair (REG-1β) mirrored each other, and citrulline (a marker of intestinal epithelial mass) increased from 6 months of age, suggesting dynamic epithelial turnover and regeneration in response to enteric insults. We observed few effects of IYCF and WASH on EED after adjustment for multiple comparisons. The WASH intervention decreased plasma IGF-1 at 3 months (β:0.89, 95%CI:0.81,0.98) and plasma kynurenine at 12 months (β: 0.92, 95%CI:0.87,0.97), and increased plasma IGF-1 at 18 months (β:1.15, 95%CI:1.05,1.25), but these small WASH effects did not translate into improved growth. CONCLUSIONS Overall, we observed dynamic trends in EED but few effects of IYCF or WASH on biomarkers during the first 18 months after birth, suggesting that these interventions did not impact EED. Transformative WASH interventions are required to prevent or ameliorate EED in low-income settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan K. Gough
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Lawrence H. Moulton
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Kuda Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Robert Ntozini
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rebecca J. Stoltzfus
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Florence D. Majo
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Laura E. Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
| | - Gordana Panic
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natasa Giallourou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Jamell
- Pain Care Specialists of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States of America
| | - Peter Kosek
- Pain Care Specialists of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States of America
| | - Jonathan R. Swann
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Division of Digestive Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
| | - Jean H. Humphrey
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Andrew J. Prendergast
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Buret AG. Acceptance of the 2019 Stoll-Stunkard Memorial Lectureship Award: The Study of Host-Parasite Interactions to Better Understand Fundamental Host Physiology: The Model of Giardiasis. J Parasitol 2020. [DOI: 10.1645/19-134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- André G. Buret
- Department of Biological Sciences, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive N.W., Calgary (Alberta), T2N 1N4, Canada
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Allain T, Buret AG. Pathogenesis and post-infectious complications in giardiasis. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2019; 107:173-199. [PMID: 32122529 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Giardia is an important cause of diarrhoea, and results in post-infectious and extra-intestinal complications. This chapter presents a state-of-the art of our understanding of how this parasite may cause such abnormalities, which appear to develop at least in part in Assemblage-dependent manner. Findings from prospective longitudinal cohort studies indicate that Giardia is one of the four most prevalent enteropathogens in early life, and represents a risk factor for stunting at 2 years of age. This may occur independently of diarrheal disease, in strong support of the pathophysiological significance of the intestinal abnormalities induced by this parasite. These include epithelial malabsorption and maldigestion, increased transit, mucus depletion, and disruptions of the commensal microbiota. Giardia increases epithelial permeability and facilitates the invasion of gut bacteria. Loss of intestinal barrier function is at the core of the acute and post-infectious complications associated with this infection. Recent findings demonstrate that the majority of the pathophysiological responses triggered by this parasite can be recapitulated by the effects of its membrane-bound and secreted cysteine proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Allain
- University of Calgary, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, Inflammation Research Network, Department of Biological Sciences, Calgary, Canada
| | - André G Buret
- University of Calgary, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, Inflammation Research Network, Department of Biological Sciences, Calgary, Canada.
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Garzón M, Papoila AL, Alves M, Pereira-da-Silva L. Comparison of Growth Curve Estimates of Infants in São Tomé Island, Africa, with the WHO Growth Standards: A Birth Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16101693. [PMID: 31091793 PMCID: PMC6572562 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16101693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
This birth cohort study compared the infant growth curve estimates in São Tomé Island to the WHO growth standards. Despite this island belonging to a lower-middle-income country, there were several factors favorable for growth that were present. Four-hundred and seventy-five full-term singleton appropriate for-gestational-age infants were enrolled and followed-up to 24 months of age. Weight-for-age, length-for-age, weight-for-length, body mass index-for-age, head circumference-for-age, weight velocity, and length velocity curves were estimated and compared to the WHO standards. In the first 6 months of age, the weight gain was adequate in the presence of a high prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding. Thereafter, weight trajectories tracked close to the WHO standards, except for a progressive decline in the infants growing in higher percentiles, especially in girls. Median length at birth was below the median WHO standards, followed by an early postnatal velocity spurt, which probably reflected the transition from an unfavorable to a more favorable postnatal environment. Thereafter, linear growth faltering was observed without relevant deterioration up to 24 months of age, which was probably due to the presence of protective factors. These results may be useful to implement strategies to further approximate infant growth in São Tomé Island to the WHO standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Garzón
- Tropical Clinic Teaching and Research Unit, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa; Lisbon 1349-008, Portugal.
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine R&D Center, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon 1349-008, Portugal.
| | - Ana Luísa Papoila
- Research Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon 1169-045, Portugal.
- Centre of Statistics and its Applications, University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal.
| | - Marta Alves
- Research Unit, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon 1169-045, Portugal.
- Centre of Statistics and its Applications, University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal.
| | - Luís Pereira-da-Silva
- Centre of Statistics and its Applications, University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1749-016, Portugal.
- Medicine of Woman, Childhood and Adolescence Teaching and Research Area, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon 1169-056, Portugal.
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Fahim SM, Das S, Gazi MA, Mahfuz M, Ahmed T. Association of intestinal pathogens with faecal markers of environmental enteric dysfunction among slum-dwelling children in the first 2 years of life in Bangladesh. Trop Med Int Health 2018; 23:1242-1250. [PMID: 30133067 PMCID: PMC6282798 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (EED) can be assessed by faecal biomarkers such as Myeloperoxidase (MPO), Neopterin (NEO) and Alpha-1 anti-trypsin (AAT). We aimed to test the association of intestinal pathogens with faecal markers of EED among slum-dwelling children in first 2 years of life. METHODS The MAL-ED birth cohort data of Bangladesh site were used to conduct this analysis. Multivariable analyses using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) were performed to test the association between intestinal pathogens and faecal markers of EED. RESULTS Giardiasis, ascariasis and trichuriasis were the most frequent parasitic infections and Campylobacter spp., Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) and Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) were the common bacterial pathogens observed in stool samples of the children. Overall, 71%, 97% and 58% of stool samples were above values considered normal in non-tropical settings for MPO, NEO and AAT respectively. Giardiasis was found to be significantly associated with MPO (Coefficient = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.15, 0.95; P-value = 0.008) and AAT concentrations (Coefficient = 0.34; 95% CI = 0.04, 0.63; P-value = 0.03). A significant association was found between trichuriasis and NEO (Coefficient = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.19, 1.61; P-value = 0.01). Trichuriasis (Coefficient = 1.71; 95% CI = 0.32, 3.11; P-value = 0.02) and giardiasis (Coefficient = 1.51; 95% CI = 0.79, 2.23; P-value <0.001) were significantly associated with EED score. Children with EAEC had significantly higher MPO concentrations (Coefficient = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.06, 0.61; P-value = 0.02). CONCLUSION The study results imply the importance of intestinal pathogens in contributing to intestinal inflammation and increased intestinal permeability in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Subhasish Das
- Nutrition and Clinical Services Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Amran Gazi
- Nutrition and Clinical Services Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mustafa Mahfuz
- Nutrition and Clinical Services Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tahmeed Ahmed
- Nutrition and Clinical Services Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Marami D, Hailu K, Tolera M. Prevalence and associated factors of intestinal parasitic infections among asymptomatic food handlers working at Haramaya University cafeterias, eastern Ethiopia. Ann Occup Environ Med 2018; 30:53. [PMID: 30167309 PMCID: PMC6103851 DOI: 10.1186/s40557-018-0263-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasitic infections are major public health problems worldwide, with high prevalence in low income countries where substandard food hygiene practices are common. Asymptomatic food handlers with poor personal hygiene could be potential sources of parasitic infections. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among asymptomatic food handlers working at Haramaya University cafeterias, eastern Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among asymptomatic food handlers working at Haramaya University cafeterias from August 2015 to January 2016. Population proportion to size allocation and systematic random sampling techniques were used to identify the study participants. Stool samples were collected and examined simultaneouly using direct and modified formol ether concentration wet smear techniques. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 software. Logistic regressions were applied to assess association between independent variable and intestinal parasitic infections. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value less than 0.05. Results A total of 417 asymptomatic food handlers were enrolled in this study. Of these, females comprised 79.4%. Large proportion (39.3%) of food handlers were in the age group of 31-40 years. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 25.2% (95% CI: 18.3, 29.6). Entamoeba histolytica/ dispar (46.7%) and A. lumbricoides (14.3%) were the most frequent isolates. Having no formal education [AOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.24, 3.67], monthly income of less than 45.7 USD [AOR: 3.86, 95% CI: 1.62, 9.20], lack of hand washing after the use of the toilet with soap [AOR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.22, 4.86] and untrimmed fingernails [AOR: 3.31, 95% CI: 1.99, 5.49] have significant association with intestinal parasitic infections. Conclusions The high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in this study highlights the importance of food handlers as probable sources of parasitic infections. Public health measures and sanitation programs should be strengthened to control the spread of intestinal parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dadi Marami
- 1Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, P.O. Box 235, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Konjit Hailu
- 2Higher Health Center, Haramaya University, P.O. Box 138, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Moti Tolera
- 3School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, P.O. Box 235, Harar, Ethiopia
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Heilmann RM, Grellet A, Grützner N, Cranford SM, Suchodolski JS, Chastant-Maillard S, Steiner JM. Effect of selected gastrointestinal parasites and viral agents on fecal S100A12 concentrations in puppies as a potential comparative model. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:252. [PMID: 29665827 PMCID: PMC5905106 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2841-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous data suggest that fecal S100A12 has clinical utility as a biomarker of chronic gastrointestinal inflammation (idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease) in both people and dogs, but the effect of gastrointestinal pathogens on fecal S100A12 concentrations is largely unknown. The role of S100A12 in parasite and viral infections is also difficult to study in traditional animal models due to the lack of S100A12 expression in rodents. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate fecal S100A12 concentrations in a cohort of puppies with intestinal parasites (Cystoisospora spp., Toxocara canis, Giardia sp.) and viral agents that are frequently encountered and known to cause gastrointestinal signs in dogs (coronavirus, parvovirus) as a comparative model. METHODS Spot fecal samples were collected from 307 puppies [median age (range): 7 (4-13) weeks; 29 different breeds] in French breeding kennels, and fecal scores (semiquantitative system; scores 1-13) were assigned. Fecal samples were tested for Cystoisospora spp. (C. canis and C. ohioensis), Toxocara canis, Giardia sp., as well as canine coronavirus (CCV) and parvovirus (CPV). S100A12 concentrations were measured in all fecal samples using an in-house radioimmunoassay. Statistical analyses were performed using non-parametric 2-group or multiple-group comparisons, non-parametric correlation analysis, association testing between nominal variables, and construction of a multivariate mixed model. RESULTS Fecal S100A12 concentrations ranged from < 24-14,363 ng/g. Univariate analysis only showed increased fecal S100A12 concentrations in dogs shedding Cystoisospora spp. (P = 0.0384) and in dogs infected with parvovirus (P = 0.0277), whereas dogs infected with coronavirus had decreased fecal S100A12 concentrations (P = 0.0345). However, shedding of any single enteropathogen did not affect fecal S100A12 concentrations in multivariate analysis (all P > 0.05) in this study. Only fecal score and breed size had an effect on fecal S100A12 concentrations in multivariate analysis (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS An infection with any single enteropathogen tested in this study is unlikely to alter fecal S100A12 concentrations, and these preliminary data are important for further studies evaluating fecal S100A12 concentrations in dogs or when using fecal S100A12 concentrations as a biomarker in patients with chronic idiopathic gastrointestinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy M Heilmann
- Small Animal Clinic, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 23, DE-04103, Leipzig, Germany. .,Gastrointestinal Laboratory, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 465 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX, 77843-4474, USA.
| | - Aurélien Grellet
- NeoCare, IHAP, University of Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, 23 chemin des Capelles, BP 87614, 31076, Toulouse Cedex 03, France
| | - Niels Grützner
- Gastrointestinal Laboratory, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 465 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX, 77843-4474, USA.,Institute of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Theodor-Lieser St 11, DE-06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Shannon M Cranford
- Gastrointestinal Laboratory, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 465 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX, 77843-4474, USA
| | - Jan S Suchodolski
- Gastrointestinal Laboratory, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 465 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX, 77843-4474, USA
| | - Sylvie Chastant-Maillard
- NeoCare, IHAP, University of Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, 23 chemin des Capelles, BP 87614, 31076, Toulouse Cedex 03, France
| | - Jörg M Steiner
- Gastrointestinal Laboratory, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 465 Raymond Stotzer Pkwy, College Station, TX, 77843-4474, USA
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Garzón M, Pereira-da-Silva L, Seixas J, Papoila AL, Alves M. Subclinical Enteric Parasitic Infections and Growth Faltering in Infants in São Tomé, Africa: A Birth Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E688. [PMID: 29621166 PMCID: PMC5923730 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15040688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The associations between enteric pathogenic parasites and growth in infants in São Tomé were explored using a refined anthropometric approach to recognize early growth faltering. A birth cohort study was conducted with follow-up to 24 months of age. Microscopic examination for protozoa and soil-transmitted helminths was performed. Anthropometric assessments included: z-scores for weight-for-length (WLZ), length-for-age (LAZ), weight (WAVZ) and length velocities (LAVZ), length-for-age difference (LAD), and wasting and stunting risk (≤-1 SD). Generalized additive mixed effects regression models were used to explore the associations between anthropometric parameters and enteric parasitic infections and cofactors. A total of 475 infants were enrolled, and 282 completed the study. The great majority of infants were asymptomatic. Giardia lamblia was detected in 35.1% of infants in at least one stool sample, helminths in 30.4%, and Cryptosporidium spp. in 14.7%. Giardia lamblia and helminth infections were significantly associated with mean decreases of 0.10 in LAZ and 0.32 in LAD, and of 0.16 in LAZ and 0.48 in LAD, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. infection was significantly associated with a mean decrease of 0.43 in WAVZ and 0.55 in LAVZ. The underestimated association between subclinical parasitic enteric infections and mild growth faltering in infants should be addressed in public health policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Garzón
- Tropical Clinic Teaching and Research Unit, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa; 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal.
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine R&D Center, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa; 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Luís Pereira-da-Silva
- Medicine of Woman, Childhood and Adolescence Teaching and Research Area, NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa; 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal.
- Research Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central; 1169-045 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Jorge Seixas
- Tropical Clinic Teaching and Research Unit, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa; 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal.
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine R&D Center, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa; 1349-008 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Ana Luísa Papoila
- Research Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central; 1169-045 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Marta Alves
- Research Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central; 1169-045 Lisbon, Portugal.
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Kraft MR, Klotz C, Bücker R, Schulzke JD, Aebischer T. Giardia's Epithelial Cell Interaction In Vitro: Mimicking Asymptomatic Infection? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:421. [PMID: 29018775 PMCID: PMC5622925 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis is responsible for more than 280 million cases of gastrointestinal complaints ("giardiasis") every year, worldwide. Infections are acquired orally, mostly via uptake of cysts in contaminated drinking water. After transformation into the trophozoite stage, parasites start to colonize the duodenum and upper jejunum where they attach to the intestinal epithelium and replicate vegetatively. Outcome of Giardia infections vary between individuals, from self-limiting to chronic, and asymptomatic to severely symptomatic infection, with unspecific gastrointestinal complaints. One proposed mechanism for pathogenesis is the breakdown of intestinal barrier function. This has been studied by analyzing trans-epithelial electric resistances (TEER) or by indicators of epithelial permeability using labeled sugar compounds in in vitro cell culture systems, mouse models or human biopsies and epidemiological studies. Here, we discuss the results obtained mainly with epithelial cell models to highlight contradictory findings. We relate published studies to our own findings that suggest a lack of barrier compromising activities of recent G. duodenalis isolates of assemblage A, B, and E in a Caco-2 model system. We propose that this epithelial cell model be viewed as mimicking asymptomatic infection. This view will likely lead to a more informative use of the model if emphasis is shifted from aiming to identify Giardia virulence factors to defining non-parasite factors that arguably appear to be more decisive for disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin R Kraft
- Unit 16 Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Clinical Physiology, Charité Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Klotz
- Unit 16 Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roland Bücker
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, Charité Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg-Dieter Schulzke
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, Charité Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Toni Aebischer
- Unit 16 Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany
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