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Colt S, Miller CD, Edielu A, Webb EL, Mawa PA, Wu HW, Nakyesige R, Muheki E, Kabatereine N, Bustinduy AL, Friedman JF. Relationships Between Schistosoma mansoni Infection Intensity and Nutritional Status and Anemia Among Preschool-aged Children in Uganda. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:90-93. [PMID: 37585653 PMCID: PMC10810701 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In a cross-sectional analysis of 354 Ugandan children (age 12-48 months) infected with Schistosoma mansoni, we assessed relationships between infection intensity and nutritional morbidities. Higher intensity was associated with an increased risk for anemia (RR = 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.10) yet not associated with risk for underweight, stunting, or wasting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susannah Colt
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Cole D Miller
- University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Andrew Edielu
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L Webb
- Medical Research Council International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrice A Mawa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Hannah W Wu
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Racheal Nakyesige
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Edridah Muheki
- Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Kasambala M, Mduluza T, Vengesai A, Mduluza-Jokonya T, Jokonya L, Midzi H, Makota RB, Mutemeri A, Maziti E, Dube-Marimbe B, Chibanda D, Mutapi F, Mukaratirwa S. Effect of Schistosoma haematobium infection on the cognitive functions of preschool age children and benefits of treatment from an endemic area in Zimbabwe. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:809. [PMID: 36316647 PMCID: PMC9620666 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07784-7] [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: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is known to affect the cognitive functions of children, however, but there is paucity of information on its impact on early childhood development in developing countries where the disease is endemic. This study aimed at determining the effects of schistosomiasis due to Schistosoma haematobium on early childhood development in children below 5 years old from Murewa District, Zimbabwe, including the benefits of treatment. Methods Preschool age children (PSAC) under the age of 5 years were screened at baseline and at 6 months post-treatment for S. haematobium infections diagnosed using the urine filtration method. Cognitive domains were assessed using the Griffith Mental Developmental Scales III on 136 PSAC. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the level of association between S. haematobium infection and performance in the cognitive domains adjusting for confounding factors (i.e. nutrition, hemoglobin levels, gender and age). Median Development Quotient scores of each cognitive domain at baseline and at 6 months post-treatment were compared and quantified. Results After adjusting for confounding factors, PSAC infected with S. haematobium had greater odds of having lower scores in the Foundation of Learning Domain (OR = 3.9, p = 0.008), Language and Communication Domain (OR = 3.2, p = 0.017), Eye-Hand Coordination Domains (OR = 10.7, p = 0.001), Personal-Social-Emotional Domain (19.3, p = 0.001) and in the Overall General Development Domain (7.2, p = 0.011). Improvement of cognitive performance was observed at 6 months post treatment in the following Domains; Language and Communication Domain (p = 0.003), Eye-Hand Coordination Domain (p = 0.02) and General Development Domain (p = 0.006). Conclusion The study showed that S. haematobium infection in PSAC is associated with lower cognitive scores in the Foundation of Learning, Language and Communication, Eye-Hand Coordination, Personal-Social-Emotional and in the Overall General Development domains. Our results strengthen the call for inclusion of PSAC in routine deworming programs for the control of urinary schistosomiasis and the need to develop locally validated tools to monitor early child development in endemic areas where resources are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maritha Kasambala
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa ,grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Biological Sciences and Ecology, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Takafira Mduluza
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe ,grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Arthur Vengesai
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe ,grid.442709.c0000 0000 9894 9740Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Midlands State University, Senga Road, Gweru, Zimbabwe
| | - Tariro Mduluza-Jokonya
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Luxwell Jokonya
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Herald Midzi
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rutendo Birri Makota
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Biological Sciences and Ecology, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Arnold Mutemeri
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Emmanuel Maziti
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Bazondlile Dube-Marimbe
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Dixon Chibanda
- grid.13001.330000 0004 0572 0760Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Mt Pleasant, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- grid.4305.20000 0004 1936 7988Institute for Immunology and Infection Research and Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, King’s Buildings, Charlotte Auerbach Rd, EH9 3JT Edinburgh, UK
| | - Samson Mukaratirwa
- grid.16463.360000 0001 0723 4123School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa ,grid.412247.60000 0004 1776 0209One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, West Indies Saint Kitts And Nevis
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The role of environmental enteric dysfunction in the pathogenesis of Schistosoma mansoni-associated morbidity in school-aged children. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010837. [PMID: 36197916 PMCID: PMC9576041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010837] [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: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have implicated schistosomiasis as a cause of intestinal barrier disruption, a salient feature of environmental enteric dysfunction (EED), as eggs translocate from the sterile bloodstream through the gut wall. We examined the longitudinal impact of praziquantel (PZQ) treatment on a) EED biomarkers and b) Insulin growth factor I (IGF-1), a key driver of childhood linear growth, since EED has been implicated in linear growth stunting. Methodology 290 children infected with S. mansoni in Brazil were treated with PZQ at baseline. EED biomarkers lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and intestinal fatty acid binding-protein (I-FABP) were measured, as well as IGF-1 at baseline, 6 and 12-months. Multivariate regression analysis was applied to assess associations between S. mansoni intensity and plasma biomarkers (LPS, I-FABP, and IGF-1), controlling for potential confounding variables. Principal findings At baseline, S. mansoni infection intensities were 27.2% light, 46.9% moderate, and 25.9% heavy. LPS concentrations were significantly reduced at the 12-month visit compared to baseline (p = 0.0002). No longitudinal changes were observed for I-FABP or IGF-1 in the 6- or 12-month periods following baseline treatment. After 6-months, I-FABP concentration was significantly higher in high vs low intensity (p = 0.0017). IGF-1 concentrations were significantly lower among children with high and moderate vs low intensity infections at each study visit. Conclusions/significance We report that S. mansoni infection impacts LPS, I-FABP and IGF-1. These findings suggest a mechanistic role for EED in schistosomiasis-related morbidities, particularly linear growth. Schistosoma mansoni is a tropical parasitic infection that causes intestinal schistosomiasis. In infected humans, the parasite worms shed eggs that migrate across the gut barrier, which damages intestinal structure and function. In children, intestinal schistosomiasis leads to anemia, undernutrition, and linear growth stunting. The mechanistic pathways between schistosomiasis and stunting are not fully understood, but this research explores the role of environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) in schistosomiasis-related morbidity. EED is an intestinal condition that affects children living in areas of poor water, sanitation, and hygiene and also leads to impaired growth and stunting. In a longitudinal cohort of Brazilian children infected with S. mansoni, we measured blood biomarkers of EED and linear growth at three time points over 12 months. All of the children were treated for schistosomiasis at baseline, and after 12 months, we observed a significant decrease in a marker of EED, suggesting improvement in gut integrity. We also found that children who had higher parasite egg burden at the baseline visit had lower levels of insulin-like growth factor-1, a hormone that drives growth in children. Our findings suggest that EED may play a role in schistosomiasis-related stunting and furthers our understanding for S. mansoni pathogenesis in children.
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Kadji Fassi JB, Boukeng Jatsa H, Membe Femoe U, Greigert V, Brunet J, Cannet C, Kenfack CM, Gipwe Feussom N, Tienga Nkondo E, Abou-Bacar A, Pfaff AW, Kamgang R, Kamtchouing P, Tchuem Tchuenté LA. Protein undernutrition reduces the efficacy of praziquantel in a murine model of Schistosoma mansoni infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010249. [PMID: 35839247 PMCID: PMC9328564 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Undernutrition and schistosomiasis are public health problems and often occur in low and middle-income countries. Protein undernutrition can alter the host-parasite environment system and aggravate the course of schistosomiasis. This study aimed to assess the impact of a low-protein diet on the efficacy of praziquantel. Methodology/Principal findings Thirty-day-old mice were fed with a low-protein diet, and 40 days later, they were individually infected with fifty Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. A 28-day-treatment with praziquantel at 100 mg/kg for five consecutive days followed by distilled water begins on the 36th day post-infection. Mice were sacrificed on the 64th day post-infection. We determined the parasitological burden, liver and intestine histomorphometry, liver injury, and immunomodulation parameters. Praziquantel treatment of infected mice fed with a standard diet (IN-PZQ) resulted in a significant reduction of worm and egg burdens and a normalization of iron and calcium levels. The therapy also improved schistosomiasis-induced hepatopathy and oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities of praziquantel were also significant in these mice. When infected mice receiving the low-protein diet were treated with praziquantel (ILP-PZQ), the body weight loss and hepatomegaly were not alleviated, and the worm and liver egg burdens were significantly higher than those of IN-PZQ mice (P < 0.001). The treatment did not reduce the increased activities of ALT and γ-GGT, the high malondialdehyde concentration, and the liver granuloma volume. The iron and calcium levels were not ameliorated and differed from those of IN-PZQ mice (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05). Moreover, in these mice, praziquantel treatment did not reverse the high level of IL-5 and the low mRNA expression of CCL3/MIP-1α and CXCL-10/IP-10 induced by S. mansoni infection. Conclusion/Significance These results demonstrated that a low-protein diet reduced the schistosomicidal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities of praziquantel. Almost 90% of people requiring schistosomiasis preventive chemotherapy in 2018 lived in sub-Saharan Africa. Besides, 205.3 million children under five years suffer and die of undernutrition in low- and middle-income countries. The physiopathology of schistosomiasis mansoni involves liver damage, oxidative stress, and perturbation of the immune response. These disturbances are intensified by undernutrition. Praziquantel is used to treat schistosomiasis, but its efficacy on the comorbidity of S. mansoni infection and undernutrition has not been investigated. We conducted this study to assess the effectiveness of praziquantel on S. mansoni infection in mice fed with a low-protein diet. We recorded growth retardation, hepatomegaly, and high worm and egg burdens in mice fed with a low-protein diet and treated with PZQ. Moreover, the treatment did not reverse the liver function injury, oxidative stress, high iron level, and low calcium level. The proinflammatory cytokine IL-5 was still high, and the gene expression of some macrophage-associated chemokines was reduced. Therefore, this study demonstrated that in a murine model of a low-protein diet, the efficacy of praziquantel on S. mansoni infection was reduced. It also underlines the importance of targeting protein deficiency and malnutrition in populations living in schistosomiasis endemic areas for efficient disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Bertin Kadji Fassi
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Hermine Boukeng Jatsa
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- * E-mail:
| | - Ulrich Membe Femoe
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, Dynamic Host-Pathogen Interactions, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valentin Greigert
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, Dynamic Host-Pathogen Interactions, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Julie Brunet
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, Dynamic Host-Pathogen Interactions, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Catherine Cannet
- Laboratory of Histomorphometry, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Christian Mérimé Kenfack
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Nestor Gipwe Feussom
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Emilienne Tienga Nkondo
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Ahmed Abou-Bacar
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, Dynamic Host-Pathogen Interactions, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Alexander Wilhelm Pfaff
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, Dynamic Host-Pathogen Interactions, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - René Kamgang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Pierre Kamtchouing
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Louis-Albert Tchuem Tchuenté
- Centre for Schistosomiasis and Parasitology, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Ecology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Abioye AI, McDonald EA, Park S, Ripp K, Bennett B, Wu HW, Pond-Tor S, Sagliba MJ, Amoylen AJ, Baltazar PI, Tallo V, Acosta LP, Olveda RM, Kurtis JD, Friedman JF. Maternal anemia type during pregnancy is associated with anemia risk among offspring during infancy. Pediatr Res 2019; 86:396-402. [PMID: 31129681 PMCID: PMC6702090 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0433-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the association between etiology of maternal anemia and iron status throughout infancy. METHODS Samples from a study designed to examine Praziquantel treatment during pregnancy were used (n = 359). All women were infected with schistosomiasis and randomized to Praziquantel or placebo at 16 ± 2 weeks' gestation. Hemoglobin, serum ferritin (SF), soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), hepcidin, C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6 were measured in maternal and infant blood. The relationship between both maternal Praziquantel treatment and etiology of anemia and infant iron status was evaluated. RESULTS Maternal iron-deficiency anemia was associated with increased risk of infant anemia at 6 months of age. Infants of mothers with the lowest levels of circulating hepcidin during gestation, likely a marker for iron deficiency, had higher sTfR:SF levels and lower hemoglobin levels, particularly at 12 months of age. Maternal non-iron-deficiency anemia (NIDA) did not impact infant anemia risk or iron status. Maternal treatment for schistosomiasis had no effect on infant hematologic status. CONCLUSIONS Maternal iron deficiency anemia was associated with an increased risk for anemia or iron deficiency during late infancy. We did not observe an association between maternal NIDA and increased risk for iron deficiency during infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajibola I Abioye
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Emily A McDonald
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Sangshin Park
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. .,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. .,Graduate School of Urban Public Health, University of Seoul, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kelsey Ripp
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Brady Bennett
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI,The Health Council of South Florida, Miami, FL
| | - Hannah W Wu
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Sunthorn Pond-Tor
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | | | | | - Palmera I Baltazar
- Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, The Philippines
| | - Veronica Tallo
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Luz P Acosta
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Jonathan D Kurtis
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Jennifer F Friedman
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
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Abioye AI, McDonald EA, Park S, Joshi A, Kurtis JD, Wu H, Pond-Tor S, Sharma S, Ernerudh J, Baltazar P, Acosta LP, Olveda RM, Tallo V, Friedman JF. Maternal, placental and cord blood cytokines and the risk of adverse birth outcomes among pregnant women infected with Schistosoma japonicum in the Philippines. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007371. [PMID: 31188820 PMCID: PMC6590831 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objectives of this study were to 1) evaluate the influence of treatment with praziquantel on the inflammatory milieu in maternal, placental, and cord blood, 2) assess the extent to which proinflammatory signatures in placental and cord blood impacts birth outcomes, and 3) evaluate the impact of other helminths on the inflammatory micro environment. METHODS/FINDINGS This was a secondary analysis of samples from 369 mother-infant pairs participating in a randomized controlled trial of praziquantel given at 12-16 weeks' gestation. We performed regression analysis to address our study objectives. In maternal peripheral blood, the concentrations of CXCL8, and TNF receptor I and II decreased from 12 to 32 weeks' gestation, while IL-13 increased. Praziquantel treatment did not significantly alter the trajectory of the concentration of any of the cytokines examined. Hookworm infection was associated with elevated placental IL-1, CXCL8 and IFN-γ. The risk of small-for-gestational age increased with elevated IL-6, IL-10, and CXCL8 in cord blood. The risk of prematurity was increased when cord blood sTNFRI and placental IL-5 were elevated. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that fetal cytokines, which may be related to infectious disease exposures, contribute to poor intrauterine growth. Additionally, hookworm infection influences cytokine concentrations at the maternal-fetal interface. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER AND WEBSITE ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00486863).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajibola I. Abioye
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Emily A. McDonald
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Sangshin Park
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Graduate School of Urban Public Health, University of Seoul, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ayush Joshi
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Jonathan D. Kurtis
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Hannah Wu
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Sunthorn Pond-Tor
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Jan Ernerudh
- Departments of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden
- Departments of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Palmera Baltazar
- Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, The Philippines
| | - Luz P. Acosta
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Veronica Tallo
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jennifer F. Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
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7
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Freer JB, Bourke CD, Durhuus GH, Kjetland EF, Prendergast AJ. Schistosomiasis in the first 1000 days. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018; 18:e193-e203. [PMID: 29170089 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(17)30490-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Infections during the first 1000 days-the period from conception to a child's second birthday-can have lifelong effects on health, because this is a crucial phase of growth and development. There is increasing recognition of the burden and potential effects of schistosomiasis in women of reproductive age and young children. Exposure to schistosomes during pregnancy can modulate infant immune development and schistosomiasis can occur from early infancy, such that the high disease burden found in adolescents is often due to accumulation of infections with long-lived schistosomes from early life. Women of reproductive age and young children are largely neglected in mass drug administration programmes, but early treatment could avert subsequent disease. We evaluate the evidence that early schistosomiasis has adverse effects on birth, growth, and development. We also discuss the case for expanding public health interventions for schistosomiasis in women of reproductive age and preschool-age children, and the need for further research to evaluate the potential of treating women pre-conception to maximise health across the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Freer
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe; Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Claire D Bourke
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Gunn H Durhuus
- Department of Internal Medicine, Sorlandet Hospital, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Eyrun F Kjetland
- Norwegian Centre for Imported and Tropical Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases Ullevaal, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Discipline of Public Health Medicine, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Andrew J Prendergast
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe; Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Osakunor DNM, Mduluza T, Midzi N, Chase-Topping M, Mutsaka-Makuvaza MJ, Chimponda T, Eyoh E, Mduluza T, Pfavayi LT, Wami WM, Amanfo SA, Murray J, Tshuma C, Woolhouse MEJ, Mutapi F. Dynamics of paediatric urogenital schistosome infection, morbidity and treatment: a longitudinal study among preschool children in Zimbabwe. BMJ Glob Health 2018; 3:e000661. [PMID: 29616147 PMCID: PMC5875666 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2017-000661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recent research has shown that in schistosome-endemic areas preschool-aged children (PSAC), that is, ≤5 years, are at risk of infection. However, there exists a knowledge gap on the dynamics of infection and morbidity in this age group. In this study, we determined the incidence and dynamics of the first urogenital schistosome infections, morbidity and treatment in PSAC. Methods Children (6 months to 5 years) were recruited and followed up for 12 months. Baseline demographics, anthropometric and parasitology data were collected from 1502 children. Urinary morbidity was assessed by haematuria and growth-related morbidity was assessed using standard WHO anthropometric indices. Children negative for Schistosoma haematobium infection were followed up quarterly to determine infection and morbidity incidence. Results At baseline, the prevalence of S haematobium infection and microhaematuria was 8.5% and 8.6%, respectively. Based on different anthropometric indices, 2.2%-8.2% of children were malnourished, 10.1% underweight and 18.0% stunted. The fraction of morbidity attributable to schistosome infection was 92% for microhaematuria, 38% for stunting and malnutrition at 9%-34%, depending on indices used. S haematobium-positive children were at greater odds of presenting with microhaematuria (adjusted OR (AOR)=25.6; 95% CI 14.5 to 45.1) and stunting (AOR=1.7; 95% CI 1.1 to 2.7). Annual incidence of S haematobium infection and microhaematuria was 17.4% and 20.4%, respectively. Microhaematuria occurred within 3 months of first infection and resolved in a significant number of children, 12 weeks post-praziquantel treatment, from 42.3% to 10.3%; P<0.001. Conclusion We demonstrated for the first time the incidence of schistosome infection in PSAC, along with microhaematuria, which appears within 3 months of first infection and resolves after praziquantel treatment. A proportion of stunting and malnutrition is attributable to S haematobium infection. The study adds scientific evidence to the calls for inclusion of PSAC in schistosome control programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derick Nii Mensah Osakunor
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Takafira Mduluza
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.,School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nicholas Midzi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Margo Chase-Topping
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Masceline Jenipher Mutsaka-Makuvaza
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe.,National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Theresa Chimponda
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Enwono Eyoh
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tariro Mduluza
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lorraine Tsitsi Pfavayi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Welcome Mkululi Wami
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Seth Appiah Amanfo
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Janice Murray
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Clement Tshuma
- Epidemiology and Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Mark Edward John Woolhouse
- Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution, Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Evolution, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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9
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Abioye AI, Park S, Ripp K, McDonald EA, Kurtis JD, Wu H, Pond-Tor S, Sharma S, Ernerudh J, Baltazar P, Acosta LP, Olveda RM, Tallo V, Friedman JF. Anemia of Inflammation during Human Pregnancy Does Not Affect Newborn Iron Endowment. J Nutr 2018; 148:427-436. [PMID: 29546300 PMCID: PMC6454452 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxx052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To our knowledge, no studies have addressed whether maternal anemia of inflammation (AI) affects newborn iron status, and few have addressed risk factors for specific etiologies of maternal anemia. Objectives The study aims were to evaluate 1) the contribution of AI and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) to newborn iron endowment, 2) hepcidin as a biomarker to distinguish AI from IDA among pregnant women, and 3) risk factors for specific etiologies of maternal anemia. Methods We measured hematologic biomarkers in maternal blood at 12 and 32 wk of gestation and in cord blood from a randomized trial of praziquantel in 358 pregnant women with Schistosoma japonicum in The Philippines. IDA was defined as anemia with serum ferritin <30 ng/mL and non-IDA (NIDA), largely due to AI, as anemia with ferritin ≥30 ng/mL. We identified cutoffs for biomarkers to distinguish IDA from NIDA by using area under the curve (AUC) analyses and examined the impact of different causes of anemia on newborn iron status (primary outcome) by using multivariate regression modeling. Results Of the 358 mothers, 38% (n = 136) had IDA and 9% (n = 32) had NIDA at 32 wk of gestation. At 32 wk of gestation, serum hepcidin performed better than soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) in identifying women with NIDA compared with the rest of the cohort (AUCs: 0.75 and 0.70, respectively) and in identifying women with NIDA among women with anemia (0.73 and 0.72, respectively). The cutoff that optimally distinguished women with NIDA from women with IDA in our cohort was 6.1 µg/L. Maternal IDA, but not NIDA, was associated with significantly lower newborn ferritin (114.4 ng/mL compared with 148.4 µg/L; P = 0.042). Conclusions Hepcidin performed better than sTfR in identifying pregnant women with NIDA, but its cost may limit its use. Maternal IDA, but not NIDA, is associated with decreased newborn iron stores, emphasizing the need to identify this cause and provide iron therapy. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00486863.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajibola I Abioye
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
| | - Sangshin Park
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Address correspondence to SP (e-mail: or )
| | - Kelsey Ripp
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Emily A McDonald
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
| | - Jonathan D Kurtis
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
| | - Hannah Wu
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
| | - Sunthorn Pond-Tor
- Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
| | - Surendra Sharma
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI
| | - Jan Ernerudh
- Departments of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine and Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden,Departments of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - Palmera Baltazar
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines,Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Luz P Acosta
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Veronica Tallo
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jennifer F Friedman
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI,Department of Pediatrics, Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI,Department of Center for International Health Research, and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI
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10
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Cognitive deficits and educational loss in children with schistosome infection-A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0005524. [PMID: 29329293 PMCID: PMC5766129 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background By means of meta-analysis of information from all relevant epidemiologic studies, we examined the hypothesis that Schistosoma infection in school-aged children (SAC) is associated with educational loss and cognitive deficits. Methodology/Principal findings This review was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42016040052). Medline, Biosis, and Web of Science were searched for studies published before August 2016 that evaluated associations between Schistosoma infection and cognitive or educational outcomes. Cognitive function was defined in four domains—learning, memory, reaction time, and innate intelligence. Educational outcome measures were defined as attendance and scholastic achievement. Risk of bias (ROB) was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to compare cognitive and educational measures for Schistosoma infected /not dewormed vs. uninfected/dewormed children. Sensitivity analyses by study design, ROB, and sequential exclusion of individual studies were implemented. Thirty studies from 14 countries, including 38,992 SAC between 5–19 years old, were identified. Compared to uninfected children and children dewormed with praziquantel, the presence of Schistosoma infection and/or non-dewormed status was associated with deficits in school attendance (SMD = -0.36, 95%CI: -0.60, -0.12), scholastic achievement (SMD = -0.58, 95%CI: -0.96, -0.20), learning (SMD = -0.39, 95%CI: -0.70, -0.09) and memory (SMD = -0.28, 95%CI: -0.52, -0.04) tests. By contrast, Schistosoma-infected/non-dewormed and uninfected/dewormed children were similar with respect to performance in tests of reaction time (SMD = -0.06, 95%CI: -0.42, 0.30) and intelligence (SMD = -0.25, 95%CI: -0.57, 0.06). Schistosoma infection-associated deficits in educational measures were robust among observational studies, but not among interventional studies. The significance of infection-associated deficits in scholastic achievement was sensitive to ROB. Schistosoma infection-related deficits in learning and memory tests were invariant by ROB and study design. Conclusion/Significance Schistosoma infection/non-treatment was significantly associated with educational, learning, and memory deficits in SAC. Early treatment of children in Schistosoma-endemic regions could potentially mitigate these deficits. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov CRD42016040052 Empirical evidence for cognitive or educational benefits of anti-Schistosoma treatment is currently uncertain, despite the recommended practice of wide-scale deworming with praziquantel. We addressed this knowledge gap by synthesizing information from 30 relevant epidemiologic studies reporting on 38,992 children between 5–19 years old from 14 countries. In those studies, Schistosoma infection or non-dewormed status was associated with educational loss and cognitive deficits. Specifically, there were small to moderate deficits in both school attendance and scholastic achievement. Similarly, Schistosoma infection or non-dewormed status was associated with deficits in learning and memory domains of psychometrically tested cognitive function. However, there was no evidence of Schistosoma infection- or non-deworming-associated deficits on tests of innate intelligence or reaction-time. Overall, compared to Schistosoma-uninfected or to dewormed children, the presence of Schistosoma infection or non-dewormed status was associated with educational, learning, and memory deficits in school-aged children. The combined evidence suggests that early treatment of children in Schistosoma-endemic regions could mitigate these deficits.
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11
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Getachew T, Argaw A. Intestinal helminth infections and dietary diversity score predict nutritional status of urban schoolchildren from southern Ethiopia. BMC Nutr 2017. [DOI: 10.1186/s40795-017-0128-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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12
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Friedman JF, Olveda RM, Mirochnick MH, Bustinduy AL, Elliott AM. Praziquantel for the treatment of schistosomiasis during human pregnancy. Bull World Health Organ 2017; 96:59-65. [PMID: 29403101 PMCID: PMC5791873 DOI: 10.2471/blt.17.198879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2014, an estimated 40 million women of reproductive age were infected with Schistosoma haematobium, S. japonicum and/or S. mansoni. In both 2003 and 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that all schistosome-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women be offered treatment, with praziquantel, either individually or during treatment campaigns. In 2006, WHO also stated the need for randomized controlled trials to assess the safety and efficacy of such treatment. Some countries have yet to follow the recommendation on treatment and many programme managers and pregnant women in other countries remain reluctant to follow the recommended approach. Since 2006, two randomized controlled trials on the use of praziquantel during pregnancy have been conducted: one against S. mansoni in Uganda and the other against S. japonicum in the Philippines. In these trials, praziquantel treatment of pregnant women had no significant effect on birth weight, appeared safe and caused minimal side-effects that were similar to those seen in treated non-pregnant subjects. Having summarized the encouraging data, on efficacy, pharmacokinetics and safety, from these two trials and reviewed the safety data from non-interventional human studies, we recommend that all countries include pregnant women in praziquantel treatment campaigns. We identify the barriers to the treatment of pregnant women, in countries that already include such women in individual treatments and mass drug administration campaigns, and discuss ways to address these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research at Rhode Island Hospital, 55 Claverick Street, Suite 101, Providence, RI 02903, United States of America (USA)
| | - Remigio M Olveda
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mark H Mirochnick
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - Alison M Elliott
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
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Abstract
Early in the history of schistosomiasis research, children under 5 years of age were known to be infected. Although this problem was recognized over 100 years ago, insufficient action has been taken to address this issue. Under current policy, such infected children only receive their first antiparasitic treatment (praziquantel - PZQ) upon entry into primary school as current mass drug administration programmes typically target school-aged children. For many infected children, they will wait up to 6 years before receiving their first medication and significant schistosomiasis-related morbidity may have already established. This inequity would not be accepted for other diseases. To unveil some of the reasons behind this neglect, it is paramount to understand the intricate historical relationship between schistosomiasis and British Imperial medicine, to underline its lasting influence on today's public health priorities. This review presents a perspective on the historical neglect of paediatric schistosomiasis, focusing on important gaps that persist from the early days after discovery of this parasite. Looking to end this inequity, we address several issues that need to be overcome to move forward towards the lasting success of schistosomiasis control and elimination efforts.
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Andrade G, Bertsch DJ, Gazzinelli A, King CH. Decline in infection-related morbidities following drug-mediated reductions in the intensity of Schistosoma infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005372. [PMID: 28212414 PMCID: PMC5333910 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since 1984, WHO has endorsed drug treatment to reduce Schistosoma infection and its consequent morbidity. Cross-sectional studies suggest pre-treatment correlation between infection intensity and risk for Schistosoma-related pathology. However, evidence also suggests that post-treatment reduction in intensity may not reverse morbidity because some morbidities occur at all levels of infection, and some reflect permanent tissue damage. The aim of this project was to systematically review evidence on drug-based control of schistosomiasis and to develop a quantitative estimate of the impact of post-treatment reductions in infection intensity on prevalence of infection-associated morbidity. Methodology/Principal findings This review was registered at inception with PROSPERO (CRD42015026080). Studies that evaluated morbidity before and after treatment were identified by online searches and searches of private archives. Post-treatment odds ratios or standardized mean differences were calculated for each outcome, and these were correlated to treatment-related egg count reduction ratios (ERRs) by meta-regression. A greater ERR correlated with greater reduction in odds of most morbidities. Random effects meta-analysis was used to derive summary estimates: after treatment of S. mansoni and S. japonicum, left-sided hepatomegaly was reduced by 54%, right-sided hepatomegaly by 47%, splenomegaly by 37%, periportal fibrosis by 52%, diarrhea by 53%, and blood in stools by 75%. For S. haematobium, hematuria was reduced by 92%, proteinuria by 90%, bladder lesions by 86%, and upper urinary tract lesions by 72%. There were no consistent changes in portal dilation or hemoglobin levels. In sub-group analysis, age, infection status, region, parasite species, and interval to follow-up were associated with meaningful differences in outcome. Conclusion/Significance While there are challenges to implementing therapy for schistosomiasis, and praziquantel therapy is not fully curative, reductions in egg output are significantly correlated with decreased morbidity and can be used to project diminution in disease burden when contemplating more aggressive strategies to minimize infection intensity. Schistosomiasis is the disease caused by infection with Schistosoma parasitic flukes. Depending on the infecting species, chronic Schistosoma infection can cause a variety of pathologies including liver and spleen enlargement, fibrosis and hypertension of the portal vein of the liver, or bladder ulceration and deformities and kidney blockage. Infection can also cause anemia, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and decreased physical fitness. In our study, we quantified the reductions in prevalence of infection-related morbidities among populations with Schistosoma infection, as achieved by giving one or more drug treatments. We systematically reviewed 71 available reports of Schistosoma-related morbidity reduction and determined, based on a meta-analysis of the primary data, that the odds of persisting morbidity progressively decrease when greater post-treatment reductions in parasite burden are achieved, as reflected by reduced egg counts in standard diagnostic testing. This suggests that repeated or more effective anti-parasite drug treatment will be a valuable tool for greater reduction of Schistosoma-related patient morbidities in affected areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele Andrade
- Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - David J. Bertsch
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Andrea Gazzinelli
- Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Charles H. King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Schistosomiasis Consortium for Operational Research and Evaluation, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Bustinduy AL, Friedman JF, Kjetland EF, Ezeamama AE, Kabatereine NB, Stothard JR, King CH. Expanding Praziquantel (PZQ) Access beyond Mass Drug Administration Programs: Paving a Way Forward for a Pediatric PZQ Formulation for Schistosomiasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004946. [PMID: 27658198 PMCID: PMC5033572 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Amaya L. Bustinduy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Jennifer F. Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Eyrun Floerecke Kjetland
- Norwegian Centre for Imported and Tropical Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases Ullevaal, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Amara E. Ezeamama
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Charles H. King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
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16
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Olveda RM, Acosta LP, Tallo V, Baltazar PI, Lesiguez JLS, Estanislao GG, Ayaso EB, Monterde DBS, Ida A, Watson N, McDonald EA, Wu HW, Kurtis JD, Friedman JF. Efficacy and safety of praziquantel for the treatment of human schistosomiasis during pregnancy: a phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2016; 16:199-208. [PMID: 26511959 PMCID: PMC4752899 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(15)00345-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite WHO recommendations to offer pregnant women treatment with praziquantel, many nations continue to withhold treatment, awaiting data from controlled trials addressing safety and efficacy. The objectives of this study were to assess whether treatment of pregnant women with schistosomiasis at 12-16 weeks gestation leads to improved maternal and newborn outcomes and to collect maternal and newborn safety data. METHODS This phase 2, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was done in 72 baranguays (villages) serviced by six municipal health centres in a schistosomiasis endemic region of northeastern Leyte, Philippines. Pregnant women (at 12-16 weeks gestation) who were otherwise healthy but infected with Schistosoma japonicum were enrolled and randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either over-encapsulated praziquantel (total dose 60 mg/kg given as two split doses) or placebo. Participants, investigators, midwives, and laboratory staff were all masked to treatment. The primary outcome was birthweight. Safety data were collected including immediate reactogenicity, post-dosing toxicology ascertained 24 h after study drug administration, and maternal and newborn serious adverse events. Analysis followed the intention-to-treat principle. Analyses were done using hierarchical generalised linear models to adjust for identified confounders and account for potential clustering of observations within villages and municipalities. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00486863. FINDINGS Between Aug 13, 2007, and Dec 3, 2012, 370 pregnant women were enrolled and randomly assigned to each treatment group (184 to the placebo group, 186 to the praziquantel group). Most women had low-intensity infections (n=334, 90%). Treatment with praziquantel did not have a significant effect on birthweight (2·85 kg in both groups, β=-0·002 [95% CI -0·088 to 0·083]; p=0·962). Treatment was well tolerated with reactogenicity rates similar to those seen in non-pregnant participants (severe reactions occurred in five patients in the praziquantel group and two in the placebo group, and included headache, fever, and malaise). There were no significant differences in key safety outcomes including abortion, fetal death in utero, and congenital anomalies. INTERPRETATION Results from this study provide important data from a controlled trial in support of the expansion of treatment policies to include pregnant women as recommended by WHO. FUNDING National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (U01AI066050).
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Affiliation(s)
- Remigio M Olveda
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Luz P Acosta
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Veronica Tallo
- Department of Epidemiology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Palmera I Baltazar
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jenny Lind S Lesiguez
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Georgette G Estanislao
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Edna B Ayaso
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Donna Bella S Monterde
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hospital, Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines
| | - Antonio Ida
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Emily A McDonald
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Hannah W Wu
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jonathan D Kurtis
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Hasbro Children's Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
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Chang Cojulun A, Bustinduy AL, Sutherland LJ, Mungai PL, Mutuku F, Muchiri E, Kitron U, King CH. Anemia Among Children Exposed to Polyparasitism in Coastal Kenya. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2015; 93:1099-105. [PMID: 26324733 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Anemia represents a substantial problem for children living in areas with limited resources and significant parasite burden. We performed a cross-sectional study of 254 Kenyan preschool- and early school-age children in a setting endemic for multiple chronic parasitic infections to explore mechanisms of their anemia. Complete venous blood cell counts revealed a high prevalence of local childhood anemia (79%). Evaluating the potential links between low hemoglobin and socioeconomic factors, nutritional status, hemoglobinopathy, and/or parasite infection, we identified age < 9 years (odds ratio [OR]: 12.0, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.4, 33) and the presence of asymptomatic malaria infection (OR: 6.8, 95% CI: 2.1, 22) as the strongest independent correlates of having anemia. A total of 130/155 (84%) of anemic children with iron studies had evidence of iron-deficiency anemia (IDA), 16% had non-IDA; 50/52 of additionally tested anemic children met soluble transferrin-receptor (sTfR) criteria for combined anemia of inflammation (AI) with IDA. Children in the youngest age group had the greatest odds of iron deficiency (OR: 10.0, 95% CI: 3.9, 26). Although older children aged 9-11 years had less anemia, they had more detectable malaria, Schistosoma infection, hookworm, and proportionately more non-IDA. Anemia in this setting appears multifactorial such that chronic inflammation and iron deficiency need to be addressed together as part of integrated management of childhood anemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Chang Cojulun
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Laura J Sutherland
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter L Mungai
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Francis Mutuku
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eric Muchiri
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Uriel Kitron
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Great Ormond Street NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; Department of Environmental Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation, Nairobi, Kenya
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18
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Jiz MA, Wu H, Olveda R, Jarilla B, Kurtis JD. Development of Paramyosin as a Vaccine Candidate for Schistosomiasis. Front Immunol 2015; 6:347. [PMID: 26257728 PMCID: PMC4508564 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by three principal species of diecious trematodes (flatworms), currently afflicts over 250 million individuals, results in an estimated 2–15% chronic disability, and contributes to poor health and economic stagnation in endemic areas. Although schistosomiasis is effectively treated with praziquantel, rapid reinfection with rebound morbidity precludes effective control based on chemotherapy alone and justifies current efforts to develop vaccines for these parasites. Paramyosin (Pmy), an invertebrate muscle-associated protein, has emerged as a promising vaccine candidate for both Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum. Herein, we discuss the discovery of Pmy, its development as a vaccine candidate in rodents and bovines, as well as studies of naturally occurring immune responses to Pmy in prospective, observational human studies. We conclude with a proposed developmental plan to move Pmy toward Phase I clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario A Jiz
- Department of Health, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine , Manila , Philippines
| | - Haiwei Wu
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School , Providence, RI , USA ; Department of Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School , Providence, RI , USA
| | - Remigio Olveda
- Department of Health, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine , Manila , Philippines
| | - Blanca Jarilla
- Department of Health, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine , Manila , Philippines
| | - Jonathan D Kurtis
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School , Providence, RI , USA ; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School , Providence, RI , USA
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19
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Inobaya MT, Olveda RM, Tallo V, McManus DP, Williams GM, Harn DA, Li Y, Chau TNP, Olveda DU, Ross AG. Schistosomiasis mass drug administration in the Philippines: lessons learnt and the global implications. Microbes Infect 2014; 17:6-15. [PMID: 25448635 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2014.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis was first reported in the Philippines in 1906. A variety of treatments have been deployed to cure infection and to control the disease in the long-term. We discuss the journey to combat the disease in the Philippines and the lessons learnt which have implications for schistosomiasis control globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianette T Inobaya
- Griffith Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Australia; Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Department of Health, The Philippines
| | - Remigio M Olveda
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Department of Health, The Philippines
| | - Veronica Tallo
- Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Department of Health, The Philippines
| | | | - Gail M Williams
- School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Donald A Harn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, USA
| | - Yuesheng Li
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Australia
| | - Thao N P Chau
- Discipline of Public Health, Flinders University, Australia
| | - David U Olveda
- Griffith Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Australia
| | - Allen G Ross
- Griffith Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Australia.
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20
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Bustinduy A, King C, Scott J, Appleton S, Sousa-Figueiredo JC, Betson M, Stothard JR. HIV and schistosomiasis co-infection in African children. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2014; 14:640-9. [DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(14)70001-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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21
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Abstract
Human schistosomiasis--or bilharzia--is a parasitic disease caused by trematode flukes of the genus Schistosoma. By conservative estimates, at least 230 million people worldwide are infected with Schistosoma spp. Adult schistosome worms colonise human blood vessels for years, successfully evading the immune system while excreting hundreds to thousands of eggs daily, which must either leave the body in excreta or become trapped in nearby tissues. Trapped eggs induce a distinct immune-mediated granulomatous response that causes local and systemic pathological effects ranging from anaemia, growth stunting, impaired cognition, and decreased physical fitness, to organ-specific effects such as severe hepatosplenism, periportal fibrosis with portal hypertension, and urogenital inflammation and scarring. At present, preventive public health measures in endemic regions consist of treatment once every 1 or 2 years with the isoquinolinone drug, praziquantel, to suppress morbidity. In some locations, elimination of transmission is now the goal; however, more sensitive diagnostics are needed in both the field and clinics, and integrated environmental and health-care management will be needed to ensure elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Colley
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Disease & Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Amaya L Bustinduy
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Liverpool, UK
| | - W Evan Secor
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles H King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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22
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Urogenital schistosomiasis in women of reproductive age and pregnant mothers in Kwale County, Kenya. J Helminthol 2013; 89:105-11. [PMID: 24103656 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x13000643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Generally, women residing in areas endemic for urinary schistosomiasis may suffer from female genital schistosomiasis which is acquired during childhood. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to estimate the prevalence and intensity of infection of Schistosoma haematobium in women of reproductive age (16-45 years) and to investigate whether S. haematobium had any effect on kidney function. A total of 394 women of known pregnancy status (158 pregnant and 236 non-pregnant) were recruited from five villages (known for their high prevalence of infection of S. haematobium) in Kwale County. Serum samples were analysed to determine levels of urea and creatinine as proxy indicators of kidney function. Data revealed that pregnant women did not, on average, have a higher prevalence or intensity of infection of urinary schistosomiasis than non-pregnant women. During pregnancy, the level of prevalence and intensity of infection of S. haematobium was highest in the first trimester (0-13 weeks), dropped in the second trimester (14-26 weeks) and rose again in the third trimester (27-40 weeks). In addition, 24.8% of women were infected with hookworm, while none were diagnosed with malaria parasites. Of 250 samples analysed for serum urea and creatinine, none had significant levels of pathology, either in pregnant or non-pregnant women. Despite World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations that pregnant women should be treated with praziquantel after the first trimester, in practice this has not been the case in many countries, including Kenya. In view of this, healthcare providers should be informed to consider treatment of pregnant women infected with schistosomiasis during antenatal visits and whenever there is mass drug administration as recommended by the WHO.
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Bustinduy AL, Parraga IM, Thomas CL, Mungai PL, Mutuku F, Muchiri EM, Kitron U, King CH. Impact of polyparasitic infections on anemia and undernutrition among Kenyan children living in a Schistosoma haematobium-endemic area. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2013; 88:433-40. [PMID: 23324217 PMCID: PMC3592521 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.12-0552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
We measured prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium, Wuchereria bancrofti, Plasmodium falciparum, hookworm, and other geohelminths among school-aged children in four endemic villages in Kwale County, Kenya and explored the relationship between multiparasite burden, undernutrition, and anemia. In 2009-2010 surveys, cross-sectional data were obtained for 2,030 children 5-18 years old. Infections were most prevalent for S. haematobium (25-62%), hookworm (11-28%), and falciparum malaria (8-24%). Over one-half of children were anemic, with high rates of acute and chronic malnutrition. Associations with infection status showed significant age and sex differences. For boys, young age, low socioeconomic standing (SES), S. haematobium, and/or malaria infections were associated with greater odds of anemia, wasting, and/or stunting; for girls, heavy S. haematobium infection and age were the significant cofactors for anemia, whereas low SES and older age were linked to stunting. The broad overlap of infection-related causes for anemia and malnutrition and the high frequency of polyparasitic infections suggest that there will be significant advantages to integrated parasite control in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaya L Bustinduy
- CTID Building, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
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24
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Wiria AE, Wammes LJ, Hamid F, Dekkers OM, Prasetyani MA, May L, Kaisar MMM, Verweij JJ, Tamsma JT, Partono F, Sartono E, Supali T, Yazdanbakhsh M, Smit JWA. Relationship between carotid intima media thickness and helminth infections on Flores Island, Indonesia. PLoS One 2013; 8:e54855. [PMID: 23365679 PMCID: PMC3554693 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0054855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine the association between helminth infections and atherosclerosis. Background Chronic helminth infection, which can lead to poor nutritional status and anti-inflammatory response, might protect against the development of atherosclerosis. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed in Flores, Indonesia, an area highly endemic for soil-transmitted helminths (STH). Stool samples from 675 participants aged 18–80 years were collected and screened for Trichuris trichiura by microscopy and for Ascaris lumbricoides, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Strongyloides stercoralis by qPCR. We collected data on body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid, high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), total immunoglobulin-E (TIgE) and Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide stimulated cytokines (tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-10). In a subset of 301 elderly adults (≥40 years of age) carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) was measured. Results Participants with any STH infection had lower BMI (kg/m2) (mean difference −0.66, 95%CI [−1.26, −0.06]), WHR (−0.01, [−0.02, −0.00]), total cholesterol (mmol/L) (−0.22, [−0.43, −0.01]) and LDL-cholesterol (mmol/L) (−0.20, [−0.39, −0.00]) than uninfected participants. After additional adjustment for BMI the association between helminth infection and total cholesterol (mean difference −0.17, 95%CI [−0.37, 0.03]) as well as LDL-cholesterol (−0.15, [−0.33, 0.04]) was less pronounced. BMI, WHR, and total cholesterol were negatively associated with number species of helminth co-infections. Participants with high TIgE, an indicator of exposure to helminths, had lower FBG, TC, and HDL. The association between TIgE and TC and HDL remained significant after adjustment with BMI. No clear association was found between STH infection or TIgE and mean cIMT. Conclusions This cross-sectional study presents evidence that helminth infections were negatively associated with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, an association at least partially mediated by an effect on BMI. The significance of this finding needs to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aprilianto Eddy Wiria
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
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25
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Wilson MS, Cheever AW, White SD, Thompson RW, Wynn TA. IL-10 blocks the development of resistance to re-infection with Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Pathog 2011; 7:e1002171. [PMID: 21829367 PMCID: PMC3150278 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 06/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite effective chemotherapy to treat schistosome infections, re-infection rates are extremely high. Resistance to reinfection can develop, however it typically takes several years following numerous rounds of treatment and re-infection, and often develops in only a small cohort of individuals. Using a well-established and highly permissive mouse model, we investigated whether immunoregulatory mechanisms influence the development of resistance. Following Praziquantel (PZQ) treatment of S. mansoni infected mice we observed a significant and mixed anti-worm response, characterized by Th1, Th2 and Th17 responses. Despite the elevated anti-worm response in PBMC's, liver, spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes, this did not confer any protection from a secondary challenge infection. Because a significant increase in IL-10-producing CD4+CD44+CD25+GITR+ lymphocytes was observed, we hypothesised that IL-10 was obstructing the development of resistance. Blockade of IL-10 combined with PZQ treatment afforded a greater than 50% reduction in parasite establishment during reinfection, compared to PZQ treatment alone, indicating that IL-10 obstructs the development of acquired resistance. Markedly enhanced Th1, Th2 and Th17 responses, worm-specific IgG1, IgG2b and IgE and circulating eosinophils characterized the protection. This study demonstrates that blocking IL-10 signalling during PZQ treatment can facilitate the development of protective immunity and provide a highly effective strategy to protect against reinfection with S. mansoni. Schistosomes are zoonotic parasitic helminths that infect hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Despite effective chemotherapy, schistosomiasis- the disease caused by these parasites, still plagues tropical regions of the world. This is due, in part, to poor resistance to reinfection resulting in high re-infection rates following treatment. This lack of resistance is intriguing, as effective treatment relies upon drug-induced parasite damage combined with host immune mediated killing. Furthermore, it has been widely reported that post-treatment, individuals develop and retain elevated levels of anti-parasite immune responses. We therefore asked why resistance to re-infection is so poor, despite the development of significant anti-worm responses post-treatment. It is essential that immune responses are controlled by various immunosuppressive mechanisms to prevent immune-mediated pathologies. However, a robust immunoregulatory response may obstruct the development of protective immunity. Thus, a balanced immune response providing a non-pathogenic yet effective immune response may be required for the development of effective resistance to reinfection. Understanding the immunological mechanisms of resistance to re-infection and the role of effector and regulatory responses may aid in the development of more effective vaccines and treatment strategies for schistosomaisis. This study suggests that combining chemotherapy with drugs that block IL-10 might provide an improved strategy to elicit acquired immunity to this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Wilson
- Immunopathogensis Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Marlyand, United States of America.
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Conlan JV, Sripa B, Attwood S, Newton PN. A review of parasitic zoonoses in a changing Southeast Asia. Vet Parasitol 2011; 182:22-40. [PMID: 21846580 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic zoonoses are common and widely distributed in the Southeast Asian region. However, the interactions between parasites, hosts and vectors are influenced by environmental, socio-cultural and livestock production changes that impact on the distribution, prevalence and severity of disease. In this review we provide an update on new knowledge in the context of ongoing changes for the food-borne pig associated zoonoses Taenia solium and Trichinella spp., the food-borne trematodes Opisthorchis viverrini and Clonorchis sinensis, the water-borne trematodes Schistosoma spp., the vector-borne zoonotic protozoa Plasmodium knowlesi and Leishmania spp. and the soil-borne zoonotic hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum. These various changes need to be considered when assessing or developing regional control programs or devising new research initiatives in a changing SE Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- James V Conlan
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, WA, Australia.
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27
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Gurarie D, Wang X, Bustinduy AL, King CH. Modeling the effect of chronic schistosomiasis on childhood development and the potential for catch-up growth with different drug treatment strategies promoted for control of endemic schistosomiasis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2011; 84:773-81. [PMID: 21540388 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2011.10-0642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
In areas endemic for schistosomiasis having limited healthcare, targeted drug treatment of school-age children is recommended for control of Schistosoma-associated morbidity. However, optimal timing, number, and frequency of treatments are not established. Because longitudinal studies of long-term impact of treatment are few, for current policy considerations we performed quantitative simulation (based on calibrated modeling of Schistosoma-associated disease formation) to project the impact of different school-age treatment regimens. Using published efficacy data from targeted programs, combined with age-specific risk for growth retardation and reinfection, we examined the likely impact of different strategies for morbidity prevention. Results suggest the need for early, repeated treatment through primary school years to optimally prevent the disabling sequelae of stunting and undernutrition. Dynamics of infection/reinfection during childhood and adolescence, combined with early treatment effects against reversible infection-associated morbidities, create a need for aggressive retreatment of preadolescents to achieve optimal suppression of morbidity where drug-based control is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gurarie
- Department of Mathematics, Department of Pediatrics, and Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, 2103 Cornell Road, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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28
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Harhay MO, Horton J, Olliaro PL. Epidemiology and control of human gastrointestinal parasites in children. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2010; 8:219-34. [PMID: 20109051 PMCID: PMC2851163 DOI: 10.1586/eri.09.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Parasites found in the human gastrointestinal tract can be largely categorized into two groups, protozoa and helminths. The soil-transmitted helminths (Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm and Trichuris trichiura) are the most prevalent, infecting an estimated one-sixth of the global population. Infection rates are highest in children living in sub-Saharan Africa, followed by Asia and then Latin America and the Caribbean. The current momentum towards global drug delivery for their control is at a historical high through the efforts of numerous initiatives increasingly acting in coordination with donors, governments and local communities. Together, they have delivered enormous quantities of drugs, especially anthelmintics to children through nationwide annual or biannual mass drug administration largely coordinated through schools. However, a much larger and rapidly growing childhood population in these regions remains untreated and suffering from more than one parasite. Mass drug administration has profound potential for control but is not without considerable challenges and concerns. A principal barrier is funding. Stimulating a research and development pipeline, supporting the necessary clinical trials to refine treatment, in addition to procuring and deploying drugs (and sustaining these supply chains), requires substantial funding and resources that do not presently exist. Limited options for chemotherapy raise concerns about drug resistance developing through overuse, however, satisfactory pharmaco-epidemiology and monitoring for drug resistance requires more developed health infrastructures than are generally available. Further, the limited pharmacopeia does not include any effective second-line options if resistance emerges, and the research and development pipeline is severely depressed. Herein, we discuss the major gastrointestinal protozoa and helminths reviewing their impact on child health, changing epidemiology and how this relates to their control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael O Harhay
- Graduate Group in Demography, Population Studies Center, University of Pennsylvania, 239 McNeil Building, 3718 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104-16298, USA, Tel.: +1 215 898 6441, Fax: +1 215 898 2124,
| | - John Horton
- 24 The Paddock, Hitchin, SG4 9EF, UK, Tel.: +44 146 262 4081, Fax: +44 146 264 8693,
| | - Piero L Olliaro
- Centre for Tropical Medicine, University of Oxford & United Nations Children’s Fund/United Nations Development Programme/World Bank/World Health Organization, Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), 20 Avenue Appia, CH-1211, Geneva 27, Switzerland, Tel.: +41 227 913 734, Fax: +41 227 914 774,
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Parasites and poverty: the case of schistosomiasis. Acta Trop 2010; 113:95-104. [PMID: 19962954 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2009.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 387] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2007] [Revised: 07/10/2009] [Accepted: 11/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Simultaneous and sequential transmission of multiple parasites, and their resultant overlapping chronic infections, are facts of life in many underdeveloped rural areas. These represent significant but often poorly measured health and economic burdens for affected populations. For example, the chronic inflammatory process associated with long-term schistosomiasis contributes to anaemia and undernutrition, which, in turn, can lead to growth stunting, poor school performance, poor work productivity, and continued poverty. To date, most national and international programs aimed at parasite control have not considered the varied economic and ecological factors underlying multi-parasite transmission, but some are beginning to provide a coordinated approach to control. In addition, interest is emerging in new studies for the re-evaluation and recalibration of the health burden of helminthic parasite infection. Their results should highlight the strong potential of integrated parasite control in efforts for poverty reduction.
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McGarvey ST. Interdisciplinary Translational Research in Anthropology, Nutrition, and Public Health. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANTHROPOLOGY 2009. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anthro-091908-164327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on several human population health research topics that exemplify interdisciplinary concepts and approaches from anthropology, nutrition, and public health with an emphasis on applied or translational global health implications. First, a recent study on neonatal survival in a resource-poor region emphasizes how health can be markedly improved with detailed translation and implementation of evidence from all three disciplines. Second, schistosomiasis, a parasitic worm infection, is reviewed with an emphasis on developing a consensus of its nutritional health burdens and the next translational research steps needed to improve control of both infection transmission and disease. Last, the author's long-term Samoan nutrition and health studies are described with a focus on new translational research to improve diabetes. This selective review attempts to provide a rationale for the intersections of anthropology, nutrition, and public health to proceed with fundamental biological, cultural, and behavioral research to reduce health inequalities globally and domestically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen T. McGarvey
- International Health Institute, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
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Finkelstein JL, Schleinitz MD, Carabin H, McGarvey ST. Decision-model estimation of the age-specific disability weight for schistosomiasis japonica: a systematic review of the literature. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2008; 2:e158. [PMID: 18320018 PMCID: PMC2254314 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Accepted: 12/04/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is among the most prevalent parasitic infections worldwide. However, current Global Burden of Disease (GBD) disability-adjusted life year estimates indicate that its population-level impact is negligible. Recent studies suggest that GBD methodologies may significantly underestimate the burden of parasitic diseases, including schistosomiasis. Furthermore, strain-specific disability weights have not been established for schistosomiasis, and the magnitude of human disease burden due to Schistosoma japonicum remains controversial. We used a decision model to quantify an alternative disability weight estimate of the burden of human disease due to S. japonicum. We reviewed S. japonicum morbidity data, and constructed decision trees for all infected persons and two age-specific strata, <15 years (y) and ≥15 y. We conducted stochastic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses for each model. Infection with S. japonicum was associated with an average disability weight of 0.132, with age-specific disability weights of 0.098 (<15 y) and 0.186 (≥15 y). Re-estimated disability weights were seven to 46 times greater than current GBD measures; no simulations produced disability weight estimates lower than 0.009. Nutritional morbidities had the greatest contribution to the S. japonicum disability weight in the <15 y model, whereas major organ pathologies were the most critical variables in the older age group. GBD disability weights for schistosomiasis urgently need to be revised, and species-specific disability weights should be established. Even a marginal increase in current estimates would result in a substantial rise in the estimated global burden of schistosomiasis, and have considerable implications for public health prioritization and resource allocation for schistosomiasis research, monitoring, and control. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection caused by a flatworm that disproportionately affects the world's poorest populations. Schistosomiasis is one of the most common infections worldwide, affecting over 207 million people in 76 countries. Current international estimates indicate that schistosomiasis has a minimal impact at the population level. This has contributed to its low prioritization in global health and subsequent resource allocation for disease control. However, recent studies indicate that these measures underestimate the extent of neglected tropical diseases, including schistosomiasis. Despite World Health Organization recommendations, the burden of schistosomiasis has not been re-examined in over a decade, and there are no established estimates for different types of schistosomiasis. The impact of symptoms associated with the Asian strain, Schistosoma japonicum, remains controversial. This study was conducted to provide an alternate measure of the burden of S. japonicum. We reviewed the literature and calculated a summary estimate for S. japonicum which was seven to 46 times greater than current measures for schistosomiasis. Findings suggest that current measures severely underestimate the extent of schistosomiasis, and urgently need to be revised. Further research is needed to examine the burden of schistosomiasis and other forgotten tropical diseases affecting the world's poorest people in endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia L Finkelstein
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Friedman JF, Mital P, Kanzaria HK, Olds GR, Kurtis JD. Schistosomiasis and pregnancy. Trends Parasitol 2007; 23:159-64. [PMID: 17336160 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2007.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2006] [Revised: 01/11/2007] [Accepted: 02/14/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Currently, schistosomes infect approximately 40 million women of child-bearing age, yet little is known about schistosome-associated morbidity in pregnant women and their offspring. Animal models indicate a deleterious effect of schistosome infection on maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes. Case reports have documented maternal infection in association with poor birth outcomes, and two observational studies indicate that maternal schistosome infection might be associated with decreased birth weight. Rigorously identifying and quantifying the impact of schistosome infection on pregnancy outcomes with well-designed observational and treatment studies are crucial for improving birth outcomes in schistosome-endemic areas. In addition, studies that address the safety of praziquantel during pregnancy could lead to further adoption of the recent informal recommendation by the World Health Organization to treat schistosome-infected pregnant and lactating women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, 55 Claverick Street, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
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Coutinho HM, Leenstra T, Acosta LP, Olveda RM, McGarvey ST, Friedman JF, Kurtis JD. Higher serum concentrations of DHEAS predict improved nutritional status in helminth-infected children, adolescents, and young adults in Leyte, the Philippines. J Nutr 2007; 137:433-9. [PMID: 17237323 DOI: 10.1093/jn/137.2.433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pubertal development and associated downmodulation of proinflammatory cytokines may predict improved nutritional status, independent of chronic parasite infections, in developing countries. We enrolled 731 individuals, aged 7-30 y, from Leyte, the Philippines, where helminth infections and nutritional morbidity are highly prevalent. The following data were collected: venous blood hemoglobin and serum concentrations of ferritin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), C-reactive protein and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and soluble TNF receptor I); anthropometric measurements to calculate upper arm muscle area Z-score and sum of triceps and subscapular skinfolds Z-score; stool samples to determine Schistosoma japonicum and geohelminth egg counts; and responses to questionnaires assessing socio-economic status. In cross-sectional multilevel linear and logistic regression analyses adjusted for confounders, relations were assessed between 1) DHEAS and nutritional status, 2) DHEAS and proinflammatory cytokines, and 3) nutritional status and proinflammatory cytokines. Independent of age, socio-economic status, and helminth infections, increased levels of DHEAS were associated with improved nutritional status and decreased prevalence of non-iron deficiency anemia in both males and females. DHEAS showed dose-dependent inverse associations with C-reactive protein (P=0.08) and the production of IL-6 (P<0.0001). These inflammatory markers, in turn, were consistently associated with undernutrition and anemia. The results suggest that the puberty-associated rise in DHEAS downmodulates proinflammatory immune responses and thereby reduces undernutrition and anemia in a population experiencing a high burden of chronic helminth infections. This novel regulatory mechanism of inflammation-related nutritional morbidity emphasizes the importance of treating prepubescent children for helminth infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Coutinho
- Center for International Health Research (CIHR), Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
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Leenstra T, Coutinho HM, Acosta LP, Langdon GC, Su L, Olveda RM, McGarvey ST, Kurtis JD, Friedman JF. Schistosoma japonicum reinfection after praziquantel treatment causes anemia associated with inflammation. Infect Immun 2006; 74:6398-407. [PMID: 16923790 PMCID: PMC1695508 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00757-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a relationship between schistosomiasis and anemia, although the magnitude and exact mechanisms involved are unclear. In a cohort of 580 Schistosoma japonicum-infected 7- to 30-year-old patients from Leyte, The Philippines, we evaluated the impact of reinfection with S. japonicum after treatment with praziquantel on the mean hemoglobin level, iron-deficiency (IDA) and non-iron-deficiency anemia (NIDA), and inflammatory markers. All participants were treated at baseline and followed up every 3 months for a total of 18 months. At each follow-up, participants provided stools to quantify reinfection and venous blood samples for hemograms and measures of iron status and inflammation. After 18 months, reinfection with S. japonicum was associated with a lower mean hemoglobin level (-0.39 g/dl; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], -0.63 to -0.16) and 1.70 (95% CI, 1.10 to 2.61) times higher odds of all-cause anemia than those without reinfection. Reinfection was associated with IDA for high reinfection intensities only. Conversely, reinfection was associated with NIDA for all infection intensities. Reinfection was associated with serum interleukin-6 responses (P<0.01), and these responses were associated with NIDA (P=0.019) but not with IDA (P=0.29). Our results provide strong evidence for the causal relationship between S. japonicum infection and anemia. Rapidly reinfected individuals did not have the positive treatment effect on hemoglobin seen in nonreinfected individuals. The principle mechanism involved in S. japonicum-associated anemia is that of proinflammatory cytokine-mediated anemia, with iron deficiency playing a role in high-intensity infections. Based on the proposed mechanism, anemia is unlikely to be ameliorated by iron therapy alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjalling Leenstra
- Center for International Health Research, Lifespan Hospitals, and Department of Pediatrics, Brown University Medical School, 55 Claverick Street, Suite 102, Providence, RI 02903, USA.
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