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Oliveira GKA, Ferreira SRR, de Moura VOL, Siqueira VDS, Reis TSA, Bridi V, Cardoso LPV, Rezende HHA. Biological screening for congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns from Jataí, Goiás, Brazil: a cross-sectional study. Rev Esc Enferm USP 2024; 58:e20230408. [PMID: 39028847 PMCID: PMC11268135 DOI: 10.1590/1980-220x-reeusp-2023-0408en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a serological screening for toxoplasmosis in the heel prick test and to evaluate its epidemiological aspects in newborns and postpartum women in Jataí, Goiás. METHOD Cross-sectional epidemiological study for the biological screening of newborns in Jataí, Goiás. RESULTS The study participants amounted to 228 newborns, whose samples were collected between the third and seventh day of life. IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were detected in 40.79% (93/228) of the samples; out of these, 23.6% (22/93) had high IgG antibody titers, leading to the collection of two other peripheral blood samples and the detection of a decrease in these titers. CONCLUSION The findings show the importance of strengthening actions in primary health care to prevent infection and training health professionals in this area to equip them with information regarding cases of reinfection and reactivation of infection in pregnant women, minimizing risks for babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Katrinny Avelar Oliveira
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | | | - Vanessa Oliveira Lopes de Moura
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Victor da Silva Siqueira
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Thaís Santos Anjo Reis
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Bridi
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Ludimila Paula Vaz Cardoso
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
| | - Hanstter Hallison Alves Rezende
- Universidade Federal de Jataí, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Aplicadas à Saúde, Jataí, GO, Brazil
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Cubas-Alarcón D, Guevara-Vásquez GM, Suclupe-Campos DO, Castro-Martínez S, Aguilar-Gamboa FR, Failoc-Rojas VE. Seroinfection of Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii, Parvovirus B19, Treponema pallidum, and HIV in a Pregnant Attending a Medical Center in Northern Peru. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2024; 2024:8844325. [PMID: 38883209 PMCID: PMC11178423 DOI: 10.1155/2024/8844325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Transplacental infections are frequent, especially in developing countries, where limited screening is performed to find infectious agents in the pregnant population. We aim to determine the clinical and epidemiological characteristics and seroinfection of antibodies against Toxoplasma, parvovirus B19, T. pallidum, and HIV in pregnant women who attended the Motupe Health Center in Lambayeque, Peru during July-August 2018. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 179 pregnant women interviewed with a standardized questionnaire. ELISA was used to determine antibodies to Toxoplasma and parvovirus B19. The detection of syphilis and HIV was conducted using immunochromatography, while the detection of hepatitis B was conducted using FTA-ABS and immunofluorescence, respectively. Results Of 179 pregnant women, syphilis and HIV infections routinely included in the screening of pregnant women presented a seroinfection of 2.2 and 0.6%, respectively. Toxoplasmosis seroinfection was 25.1%, while IgM antiparvovirus B19 was 40.8%, revealing that pregnant women had an active infection at the time of study. Conclusion The level of seroinfection of toxoplasmosis reveals the risk to which pregnant women who participated in the study are exposed. The high seroinfection of parvovirus B19 could explain the cases of spontaneous abortion and levels of anemia in newborn that have been reported in Motupe, Lambayeque, Peru. However, future causality studies are necessary to determine the significance of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Danny Omar Suclupe-Campos
- Microbiology Laboratory Clinical Laboratory Service School of Biological Sciences Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruiz Gallo, Lambayeque, Peru
| | | | - Franklin Rómulo Aguilar-Gamboa
- Immunology and Virology Laboratory Hospital Regional de Lambayeque, Lambayeque, Peru
- Grupo de investigación en Inmunología y Virología del Norte, Lambayeque, Peru
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Berrouch S, Escotte-Binet S, Biary A, Nast E, Laaouidi Y, Aubert D, Maarouf A, Harrak R, Villena I, Hafid J. Investigation of the presence of Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in drinking waters in the region of Marrakech, Morocco. J Food Prot 2023:100112. [PMID: 37286083 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The association between the parasitic illnesses and the consumption of contaminated water has been largely reported. However, there is still a lack of studies investigating the extent of parasitic contamination in water in Morocco. This is the first study in Morocco that aimed at assessing the presence of protozoan parasites, namely Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and Toxoplasma gondii, in drinking water consumed in the region of Marrakech. Samples processing was performed by membrane filtration and qPCR detection. A total of 104 drinking water samples (tap water, well and spring waters) was collected between 2016 and 2020. The analysis revealed an overall protozoa contamination rate of 67.3% (70/104), of which 35 samples were positive for Giardia duodenalis, 18 for Toxoplasma gondii and 17 for both parasites. Whereas no sample was positive for Cryptosporidium spp. This first study showed that drinking water in the region of Marrakech contained parasites which could represent a risk for consumers. For better understanding and estimation of the risk encountered by local inhabitants, further studies concerned with (oo)cyst viability, infectivity and genotype identification need to be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Berrouch
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco; Ecole Supérieure de Technologie Kelaa des Sraghna, Cadi Ayyad University, El Kelaa des Sraghna, Morocco
| | - Sandie Escotte-Binet
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Abdelkader Biary
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Eva Nast
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Younes Laaouidi
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Dominique Aubert
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Abdelmalek Maarouf
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Rajae Harrak
- Regional Laboratory for Epidemiological Diagnosis and Environmental Health, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Isabelle Villena
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Jamaleddine Hafid
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco.
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Belkacemi M, Heddi B. Toxoplasmosis Immunity Status of Blood Donors in Sidi Bel Abbès, West Algeria. Cureus 2022; 14:e28826. [PMID: 36225427 PMCID: PMC9535615 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease. It is due to an obligate intracellular protozoan called Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). Felids are considered definitive hosts, and humans take part as intermediate hosts. At least one-third of the world’s population is seropositive to the parasite. In addition, to the known modes of transmission, the infection can be transmitted through blood transfusions. The aim of this study is to assess the immune status of blood donors about this disease and estimate the potential risk by blood components. Methodology A single cross-sectional study was conducted based on the search for T. gondii antibodies (IgG and IgM) in blood donors. This research was performed using a latex particle agglutination assay confirmed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results In all, 103 blood donors were involved in this study. The sex ratio of male/ female was 0.75. The recorded rate of exposure to toxoplasmosis in blood donors was 47.7% (95% CI: 35.1-54.3). Significant differences were observed between the prevalence and those of other African countries in West, East, and Central Africa, but not with those of Algerian pregnant women and neighboring North African countries. There was no association between T. gondii seropositivity and the following factors: sex, age, and blood group ABO or Rhesus. Antitoxoplasma IgG was detectable in all positive donors, while IgM was undetectable. All seropositive donors had an IgG titer ≥9 IU/ml. The potential risk of T. gondii transmission ranges from 1 per 100,000 to 17 per 100,000 blood donations. Conclusion The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection was comparable to those found in Algerian pregnant women and neighboring North African countries. However, the seroprevalence rate was lower than recorded in other African countries. There is even a risk of transmission of toxoplasmosis through blood transfusions. There is a need to enhance blood safety measures for pregnant, immunocompromised, and multi-transfused people. As the immune status of blood donors may vary by region, there is a need to extend the national studies to the entire country. This study provides the first data on the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection among Algerian blood donors and the risk of its transmission by transfusion of blood components.
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Abdul Hafeez M, Mehdi M, Aslam F, Ashraf K, Aleem MT, Khalid AR, Sattar A, Waheed SF, Alouffi A, Alharbi OO, Shabbir MAB, Chaudhry U, Almutairi MM. Molecular Characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in Cats and Its Zoonotic Potential for Public Health Significance. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11040437. [PMID: 35456112 PMCID: PMC9026455 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11040437] [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: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a globally distributed disease of warm-blooded animals. It is caused by the opportunistic parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). One-third of the global human population is believed to be infected with T. gondii. Cats serve as final host of T. gondii and are the main source of contamination of soil and water. This study aimed to detect genotypes of T. gondii in cats. Fecal samples (n = 400) were collected from districts of South Punjab (Khanewal and Sahiwal), and were processed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The obtained oligonucleotide sequences (T. gondii) were submitted to the GenBank database, and the evolutionary tree was constructed using MEGA-X software. Seven fecal samples (3.5%) from cats were positive. Five out of thirteen fecal samples (38.46%) found to be positive for T. gondii with microscopy were confirmed by PCR. After phylogenetic analysis with 3 clonal types and atypical strains, isolates of T. gondii in current study were more closely linked to a typical strain (AF249696). Besides genotyping from cats, seroprevalence from humans and ruminants is still considered to be the best and easiest way to identify the Toxoplasma. Blood samples were collected from sheep and goats (n = 2000 each), and human blood samples (n = 400) were collected from the same vicinity. Seroprevalence was determined using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. In Khanewal, the blood samples of 292 goats (29.2%) and 265 sheep (26.5%), and 6 fecal samples from cats (3%) were positive. Out of 200 human blood samples, 52 were positive, with a seroprevalence of 26%. In the Sahiwal district, the blood samples from 49 humans, 235 sheep and 348 goats were positive, with seroprevalence of 24.5%, 23.5% and 34.8%, respectively. The present study revealed the current circulating genotype of T. gondii from cats in the districts Khanewal and Sahiwal and the seroprevalence of the organism in small ruminants and humans living in the same vicinity. Further genotype analyses of the organism from ruminants and humans are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Abdul Hafeez
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (M.M.); (K.A.)
- Correspondence: (M.A.H.); (M.M.A.)
| | - Muntazir Mehdi
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (M.M.); (K.A.)
| | - Faiza Aslam
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (F.A.); (S.F.W.)
| | - Kamran Ashraf
- Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (M.M.); (K.A.)
| | - Muhammad Tahir Aleem
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China;
| | - Abdur Rauf Khalid
- Department of Livestock and Poultry Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan;
| | - Adeel Sattar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan;
| | - Syeda Fakhra Waheed
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (F.A.); (S.F.W.)
| | - Abdulaziz Alouffi
- King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, Riyadh 12354, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Omar Obaid Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Umer Chaudhry
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey GU27XH, UK;
| | - Mashal M. Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
- Correspondence: (M.A.H.); (M.M.A.)
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Fader Kaiser CM, Romano PS, Vanrell MC, Pocognoni CA, Jacob J, Caruso B, Delgui LR. Biogenesis and Breakdown of Lipid Droplets in Pathological Conditions. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:826248. [PMID: 35198567 PMCID: PMC8860030 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.826248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid droplets (LD) have long been considered as mere fat drops; however, LD have lately been revealed to be ubiquitous, dynamic and to be present in diverse organelles in which they have a wide range of key functions. Although incompletely understood, the biogenesis of eukaryotic LD initiates with the synthesis of neutral lipids (NL) by enzymes located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The accumulation of NL leads to their segregation into nanometric nuclei which then grow into lenses between the ER leaflets as they are further filled with NL. The lipid composition and interfacial tensions of both ER and the lenses modulate their shape which, together with specific ER proteins, determine the proneness of LD to bud from the ER toward the cytoplasm. The most important function of LD is the buffering of energy. But far beyond this, LD are actively integrated into physiological processes, such as lipid metabolism, control of protein homeostasis, sequestration of toxic lipid metabolic intermediates, protection from stress, and proliferation of tumours. Besides, LD may serve as platforms for pathogen replication and defense. To accomplish these functions, from biogenesis to breakdown, eukaryotic LD have developed mechanisms to travel within the cytoplasm and to establish contact with other organelles. When nutrient deprivation occurs, LD undergo breakdown (lipolysis), which begins with the LD-associated members of the perilipins family PLIN2 and PLIN3 chaperone-mediated autophagy degradation (CMA), a specific type of autophagy that selectively degrades a subset of cytosolic proteins in lysosomes. Indeed, PLINs CMA degradation is a prerequisite for further true lipolysis, which occurs via cytosolic lipases or by lysosome luminal lipases when autophagosomes engulf portions of LD and target them to lysosomes. LD play a crucial role in several pathophysiological processes. Increased accumulation of LD in non-adipose cells is commonly observed in numerous infectious diseases caused by intracellular pathogens including viral, bacterial, and parasite infections, and is gradually recognized as a prominent characteristic in a variety of cancers. This review discusses current evidence related to the modulation of LD biogenesis and breakdown caused by intracellular pathogens and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio M Fader Kaiser
- CONICET Dr. Mario H. Burgos Institute of Histology and Embryology (IHEM), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Patricia S Romano
- CONICET Dr. Mario H. Burgos Institute of Histology and Embryology (IHEM), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - M Cristina Vanrell
- CONICET Dr. Mario H. Burgos Institute of Histology and Embryology (IHEM), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Cristian A Pocognoni
- CONICET Dr. Mario H. Burgos Institute of Histology and Embryology (IHEM), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Julieta Jacob
- CONICET Dr. Mario H. Burgos Institute of Histology and Embryology (IHEM), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Benjamín Caruso
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biologicas y Tecnologicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cordoba, Cordoba, Argentina
| | - Laura R Delgui
- CONICET Dr. Mario H. Burgos Institute of Histology and Embryology (IHEM), Mendoza, Argentina
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Pedraza DF, Lins ACDL. [Clinical complications during pregnancy: a systematic review of studies with pregnant Brazilian women]. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2021; 26:5329-5350. [PMID: 34787223 DOI: 10.1590/1413-812320212611.3.33202019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The scope of this paper was to describe the main clinical complications among pregnant Brazilian women reported in the literature, identifying the most relevant exposure factors and their outcomes in maternal and child health. This is a systematic review of articles published between 2010 and 2018. Three reviews and 36 empirical articles were included; mental disorders (n=9), infectious diseases (n=9) and severe maternal morbidity (n=8) were the main clinical complications during pregnancy. In addition, four articles focused on determining the main conditions or causes of hospitalization, with a higher frequency of Urinary Tract Infection, anemia and hypertensive diseases. Maternal age at reproductive extremes, lower schooling, socioeconomic vulnerability, racial characteristics and the use of public health services were the most relevant exposure factors. Unfavorable health outcomes associated with clinical complications in pregnancy were verified in the eight articles with this profile. The frequency of pregnant women with potential life-threatening clinical complications is high in the country, highlighting the importance of primary care coverage and the implementation of interventions to reduce and prevent adverse maternal and child outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dixis Figueroa Pedraza
- Universidade Estadual da Paraíba. Av. das Baraúnas 351, Campus Universitário, Bodocongó. 58109-753 Campina Grande PB Brasil.
| | - Anahi Cézar de Lima Lins
- Universidade Estadual da Paraíba. Av. das Baraúnas 351, Campus Universitário, Bodocongó. 58109-753 Campina Grande PB Brasil.
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The Level of Knowledge about Toxoplasmosis among University Students in Rabat in Morocco. J Parasitol Res 2021; 2021:5553977. [PMID: 34350032 PMCID: PMC8328697 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5553977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this descriptive cross-sectional study is to evaluate the knowledge of toxoplasmosis among medical, biology, and veterinary students in Rabat in Morocco. The data was collected by using a questionnaire which includes demographic characteristics, epidemiology, diagnosis, and clinical issues related to knowledge of toxoplasmosis. During analysis, the study groups were divided based upon their specialty of students who were medical, biology, and veterinary students. Out of 230 students, 55.2% were female and 44.8% were male. The average age of the study population is 21.7 ± 02 years. Less than half (42.6%) have heard of the disease; most of them have heard from faculty during studies in classrooms with 75.8%, and 3.2% were from the internet. Only 36.5% knew the correct causative agent of toxoplasmosis, and 32.1% were aware of the definitive host. The current study documented that there are gaps in the knowledge of the students regarding toxoplasmosis. Therefore, the present study puts the basis for future studies highlighting the importance of educating students to improve knowledge and attitudes towards toxoplasmosis.
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De Mattos LC, Ferreira AIC, de Oliveira KY, Nakashima F, Brandão CC. The Potential Contribution of ABO, Lewis and Secretor Histo-Blood Group Carbohydrates in Infection by Toxoplasma gondii. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:671958. [PMID: 34222043 PMCID: PMC8251793 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.671958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The glycosyltransferases encoded by genes from the human ABO, Lewis, and Secretor histo-blood group systems synthesize part of the carbohydrate antigens in hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic tissues. The combined action of these glycosyltransferases strongly influences cell, tissue, mucosa, and exocrine secretion carbohydrate phenotypes, including those serving as habitat for mutualistic and pathogenic microorganisms. A set of reports investigated associations between Toxoplasma gondii infection and the ABO histo-blood group system, but the results are contradictory. As T. gondii uses the gastrointestinal tract as a route for infection, and in this organ, the expression of ABO, Lewis, and Secretor histo-blood group carbohydrates occurs, it is reasonable to suppose some biological relationship between them. This text reviewed association studies published in recent decades focusing on the potential contribution of the ABO, Lewis, and Secretor histo-blood group carbohydrates and infection by T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Carlos De Mattos
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine – FAMERP, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Ana Iara Costa Ferreira
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine – FAMERP, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Karina Younan de Oliveira
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine – FAMERP, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Nakashima
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine – FAMERP, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Cinara Cássia Brandão
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine – FAMERP, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
- FAMERP Toxoplasma Research Group, Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine – FAMERP, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
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Ait Hamou S, Laboudi M. An analytical study on the awareness and practice relating toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Casablanca, Morocco. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:507. [PMID: 33726705 PMCID: PMC7962262 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10474-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although toxoplasmosis is asymptomatic in most cases among pregnant women, it may cause newborn abortions and birth defects if the infection occurs during pregnancy. Therefore, raising awareness and promoting good practices of pregnant women towards toxoplasmosis disease is essential to avoid infection during pregnancy. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to assess toxoplasmosis awareness and its risk-related behavior pregnant women who attended public health centers in one of the biggest Moroccan cities: Casablanca. METHODS A structured questionnaire was used to collect data including socio-demographics data, awareness of etiology, modes of transmission and preventive practices towards toxoplasmosis. RESULTS This study survey showed that among 390 pregnant women interviewed, 41.2% reported having heard or read information regarding toxoplasmosis. Only 8.1% of them knew that toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, and 13.7% of those who gave a correct answer were aware that the host of toxoplasmosis is cats. There is a significant statistical association between age, level of education and profession of pregnant women and toxoplasmosis awareness. Despite of the majority of the interviewed pregnant women had had effective preventive practices towards toxoplasmosis, 17.4% of pregnant women were convinced that Toxoplasmosis can transmit to the fetus and 14.3% stated it is asymptomatic in most cases. CONCLUSION This study highlights the low level of knowledge and awareness of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Casablanca/Morocco. Therefore, a special education program targeting all women during their reproductive age is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Ait Hamou
- Laboratory of Ecology and Environment (LEE), Faculty of Sciences Ben M’Sik, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - M. Laboudi
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Hygiene, Rabat, Morocco
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Laboudi M, Taghy Z, Duieb O, Peyron F, Sadak A. Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence among pregnant women in Rabat, Morocco. Trop Med Health 2021; 49:21. [PMID: 33685529 PMCID: PMC7941977 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-021-00311-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is an infectious disease caused by a protozoan parasite named Toxoplasma gondii (T.gondii). Pregnant women are considered one of the risk groups. The objective of this retrospective study is to provide an updated estimate of the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies among a group of Moroccan pregnant women monitored at the Parasitology Laboratory of the National Institute of Hygiene in Rabat in Morocco. METHODS Serum samples were tested for the presence of specific anti-T. gondii immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anti-Toxoplasma IgM- and IgG-positive cases were also evaluated with the anti-Toxoplasma IgG avidity test. All cases were evaluated according to the age, parity, and historical of abortion. RESULTS Among 677 pregnant women, 94.1% (637/677) were serologically screened for the first time and therefore had no knowledge of their serological status, and only 5.9% (40/677) were screened for the second or third time. The overall anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM seropositivity among the 637 pregnant women included in the study analysis was 43% (274/637) and 3.9% (25/637), respectively. The use of the IgG avidity test allowed excluding recent infection among 83% of cases with IgG and IgM positive sera. The mean age was 29.4 ± 6.3 years. The result of the bivariate analysis revealed that the age influenced significantly the seroprevalence rate, while the parity and the existence of previous spontaneous abortion did not have any significant statistical correlation with seropositivity to T. gondii. CONCLUSION This study shows that 43% of pregnant women were positive and 57% of them had no antibody against the T. gondii infection. However, the pregnancy follow-up and the counseling of pregnant women remain essential for the prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majda Laboudi
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Hygiene, 27 Avenue Ibn Batouta, BP: 769, Rabat, Agdal, Morocco.
| | - Zoubida Taghy
- Faculty of Science, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Oussama Duieb
- Faculty of Science, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - François Peyron
- Institut de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, Lyon, France
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Ka'e AC, Sosso SM, Fokam J, Simo RK, Essama SR, Nka AD, Yagai B, Dzukou CJN, Tchouaket MCT, Chenwi C, Abba A, Fainguem N, Zam MKN, Yimga JF, Colizzi V, Ndjolo A. Anti-Toxoplasmic Immunoglobulin G Quantitation Correlates with Immunovirological Parameters of HIV-Infected Cameroonians. Curr HIV Res 2021; 19:73-83. [PMID: 32885755 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x18666200903172523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is still a neglected common opportunistic infection in immunocompromised individuals, who are mainly people living with HIV (PLHIV) in whom reactivation of toxoplasmosis may occur with advanced HIV conditions in resource-limited settings (RLS). OBJECTIVE The objective was to assess the correlation between anti-toxoplasmic immunoglobulin G (anti-Toxo IgG) concentration and the immuno-virological status of PLHIV. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in the year 2018 among 100 PLHIV aged ≥18 years in Yaounde-Cameroon. For each participant, anti-Toxo IgG, CD4-T lymphocytes, and plasma viral load (PVL) were measured using ELISA, flow cytometry, and real-time PCR, respectively. RESULTS Overall, 56% of the participants were seropositive for anti-Toxo IgG, while 33% were negative and 11% were equivocal. All (n=19) those with PVL>1000 copies/mL were seropositive to anti-Toxo IgG versus 52.85% (37/70) with PVL<1000 copies/mL; p<0.0001. Interestingly, all (n=11) those with severe immunodeficiency (T-CD4<200 cells/μL) were positive to anti-Toxo IgG versus 57.69% (45/78) with T-CD4>200 cells/μL; p<0.0001. Most importantly, PVL and anti- Toxo IgG concentration were positively correlated (r = 0.54; p<0.0001), while T-CD4 and anti- Toxo IgG concentration were negatively correlated (r = - 0.70; p<0.0001). Adjusting age, gender, immune status, and virological profile in logistic regression shows that only immune status was independently associated with the serological status of toxoplasmosis (p=0.0004). CONCLUSION In Cameroon, about half of PLHIV might be seropositive to anti-Toxo IgG, with decreasing immunity appearing as a risk of toxoplasmosis relapse. Thus, in the context of immunodeficiency, routine quantification of anti-Toxo IgG would alleviate the programmatic burden of this opportunistic infection in RLS with the generalized HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aude Christelle Ka'e
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Samuel Martin Sosso
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Joseph Fokam
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Rachel Kamgaing Simo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Sara Riwom Essama
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Alex Durand Nka
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Bouba Yagai
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | - Michel Carlos Tommo Tchouaket
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Collins Chenwi
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Aissatou Abba
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Nadine Fainguem
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Marie Krystel Nnomo Zam
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Junie Flore Yimga
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | - Alexis Ndjolo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Center for Research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management (CIRCB), Yaounde, Cameroon
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Manuel L, Santos-Gomes G, Noormahomed EV. Human toxoplasmosis in Mozambique: gaps in knowledge and research opportunities. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:571. [PMID: 33176884 PMCID: PMC7659051 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04441-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii that afflicts humans worldwide and wild and domestic warm-blooded animals. In immunocompetent individuals, the acute phase of infection presents transient low or mild symptoms that remain unnoticed. In immunocompromised patients, T. gondii is a life-threatening opportunistic infection, which can result from the reactivation of latent infection or primary infection. Moreover, congenital toxoplasmosis, which results from the transplacental passage of tachyzoites into the fetus during a pregnant primary infection, can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or ocular and neurologic disease, and neurocognitive deficits in the newborns. Thus, the present review aims to address the current knowledge of T. gondii infection and toxoplasmosis in Africa and especially in Mozambique, stressing the importance of identifying risk factors and promote awareness among the health care providers and population, assessing the gaps in knowledge and define research priorities. In Mozambique, and in general in southern African countries, clinical disease and epidemiological data have not yet been entirely addressed in addition to the implications of T. gondii infection in immunocompetent individuals, in pregnant women, and its relation with neuropsychiatric disorders. The main gaps in knowledge in Mozambique include lack of awareness of the disease, lack of diagnostic methods in health facilities, lack of genetic data, and lack of control strategies.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Manuel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidade Lurio, Nampula, Mozambique
| | - Gabriela Santos-Gomes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Emilia V Noormahomed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, Mozambique. .,Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of California, San Diego, USA. .,Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique.
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Vueba AN, Faria CP, Almendra R, Santana P, Sousa MDC. Serological prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Luanda (Angola): Geospatial distribution and its association with socio-demographic and clinical-obstetric determinants. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241908. [PMID: 33156846 PMCID: PMC7647088 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We report a study on toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Luanda, Angola, determining the seroprevalence, geospatial distribution and its association with socio-economic features, dietary habits and hygiene and health conditions. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG and IgM were quantified in serum samples of women attended at the Lucrecia Paim Maternity Hospital between May 2016 and August 2017. The IgG avidity test and qPCR assay were used for dating the primary infection. Data were collected by questionnaire after written consent, and spatial distribution was assessed through a Kernel Density Function. The potential risk factors associated with Toxoplasma infection were evaluated using bivariate and multivariate binomial logistic regression analysis. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were quantified in 878 pregnant women, and 346 (39.4%) samples were IgG positive, 2 (0.2%) positive for IgM and IgG, and 530 (60.4%) negative for both immunoglobulins. The longitudinal study showed that none of the seronegative women seroconverted during the survey. Regarding other infections, 226 (25.7%) were positive for hepatitis B, while 118 (13.4%) were HIV-positive. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was similar in most municipalities: 43.8% in Cazenga (28 of 64); 42.5% in Viana (88 of 207); 42.3% in Cacuaco (22 of 52); and 41.1% in Luanda ((179 of 435). In contrast, the seroprevalence in municipality of Belas was lower (25.8%; 31 of 120) and bivariate and multivariate analysis has shown a lower risk for toxoplasmosis in this area (OR 0.479, CI: 0.305–0.737; OR 0.471, CI: 0.299–0.728). The multivariate analysis has shown a significant increased risk for toxoplasmosis in women in the last trimester of pregnancy (OR 1.457, CI: 1.011–2.102), suffering spontaneous abortion (OR 1.863, CI: 1.014–3.465) and having pets at home (OR 1.658, CI: 1.212–2.269). Also, women who tested positive for hepatitis B (OR 1.375, CI: 1.008–1.874) and HIV (OR 1.833, CI: 1.233–2.730) had a significant increased risk for T. gondii infection. In conclusion, our study showed that a large number of pregnant women are not immunized for toxoplasmosis and identified the risk factors for this infection in Luanda. It is crucial to establish the diagnosis of primary maternal infection as well as the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. Our results underlined the need for diagnostic and clinical follow-up of toxoplasmosis, HIV and hepatitis B during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clarissa Perez Faria
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC), Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Almendra
- Centre of Studies on Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula Santana
- Centre of Studies on Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Centre of Studies on Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), Department of Geography and Tourism, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria do Céu Sousa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra (FFUC), Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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Lachkhem A, Lahmar I, Galal L, Babba O, Mezhoud H, Hassine M, Lachkhem A, Dardé ML, Mercier A, Babba H. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among healthy blood donors in two locations in Tunisia and associated risk factors. Parasite 2020; 27:51. [PMID: 32955429 PMCID: PMC7504876 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2020049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that can be transmitted to humans through a variety of routes including blood transfusion. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and associated risk factors in healthy blood donors in Tunisia. A total of 800 healthy blood donors from two blood centers in south and coastal Tunisia were analyzed for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISA), respectively. Structured questionnaires were used to gather information on risk factors for T. gondii infection during collection. The overall seroprevalence was 44.4% of which 352 (44%) and 3 (0.4%) were positive for IgG and both IgG and IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that T. gondii seropositivity was significantly associated with the birth place (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.72; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–4.94) and the age of the donors (adjusted OR = 4.98; 95% CI: 1.50–16.58) which are independent risk factors. In addition, the variables of hand washing before eating (adjusted OR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.37–0.74) and living in an urban environment (adjusted OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.13–0.71) are two protective factors. This study provided the first data on the seroprevalence and epidemiology of T. gondii infection in healthy blood donors in Tunisia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Lachkhem
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ibtissem Lahmar
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Lokman Galal
- INSERM, Université Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Oussama Babba
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia - Centre de Maternité et de Néonatologie de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Habib Mezhoud
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Mohssen Hassine
- Hématologie - Banque du Sang de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Ahmed Lachkhem
- Centre de Transfusion Sanguine de Gafsa, 2100 Gafsa, Tunisia
| | - Marie-Laure Dardé
- INSERM, Université Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France - Centre National de Référence (CNR) Toxoplasmose/Toxoplasma Biological Center (BRC), Centre Hospitalier-Universitaire Dupuytren, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Aurélien Mercier
- INSERM, Université Limoges, CHU Limoges, IRD, U1094 Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Institut d'Epidémiologie et de Neurologie Tropicale, GEIST, 87000 Limoges, France - Centre National de Référence (CNR) Toxoplasmose/Toxoplasma Biological Center (BRC), Centre Hospitalier-Universitaire Dupuytren, 87000 Limoges, France
| | - Hamouda Babba
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médicale et Moléculaire, Département de Biologie Clinique B, Faculté de Pharmacie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia - Centre de Maternité et de Néonatologie de Monastir, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
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Laboudi M, Ait Hamou S, Mansour I, Hilmi I, Sadak A. The first report of the evaluation of the knowledge regarding toxoplasmosis among health professionals in public health centers in Rabat, Morocco. Trop Med Health 2020; 48:17. [PMID: 32292287 PMCID: PMC7144052 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-020-00208-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The assessment of the knowledge of Toxoplasma gondii infection among health professionals is essential to design an effective management strategy. The current study was conducted to assess the knowledge and perception of health professionals working in urban public health centers of different parts of Rabat in Morocco. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 15 to June 15, 2017, in urban public health centers selected in the prefecture of Rabat in Morocco. A structured questionnaire was completed by participants and included questions on the epidemiology and diagnosis of toxoplasmosis and clinical issues related to the infection. Results Ninety-six health professionals participated, including medical doctors, nurses, midwives, and laboratory technicians. Most of them were female (86, 89.58%). The mean age was 40.51 ± 10.26 years, and the mean length of time working in the field of healthcare was 15.92 ± 8.55 years. Eighty one percent (86, 81.25%) of health professionals knew the agent of toxoplasmosis, and 62 (64.5%) knew the definitive host of the parasite. Regarding clinical symptoms, 55 (57.29%) of the respondents knew that toxoplasmosis is an asymptomatic disease in immunocompetent persons. More than half of the respondents correctly identified the main routes of transmission: eating raw or undercooked meats, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and having direct contact with cats. However, only 29 (30.21%) of them believed that water can be a risk factor for the transmission of toxoplasmosis. Regarding diagnosis, only 14 (14.58%) health professionals knew about the avidity test. Conclusions The implementation of educational interventions is recommended to raise awareness of toxoplasmosis among health professionals who provide prenatal care in public health centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majda Laboudi
- 1Department of parasitology, National Institute of Hygiene, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Sanaa Ait Hamou
- 2Faculty of Science Ben M'Sik, University Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Imane Mansour
- 3Faculty of Science, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Ilham Hilmi
- 3Faculty of Science, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
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Rouatbi M, Amairia S, Amdouni Y, Boussaadoun MA, Ayadi O, Al-Hosary AAT, Rekik M, Ben Abdallah R, Aoun K, Darghouth MA, Wieland B, Gharbi M. Toxoplasma gondii infection and toxoplasmosis in North Africa: a review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:6. [PMID: 30767889 PMCID: PMC6376878 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2019006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is an important zoonosis caused by an obligate intracellular parasitic protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii. The disease is distributed worldwide and can affect all warm-blooded vertebrates, including humans. The present review aimed to collect, compile and summarize the data on the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans and animals in the five North African countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt). Published data from national and international databases were used. Distribution patterns and risk factors for T. gondii infection are discussed, focusing on biotic and abiotic factors. This review is a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of T. gondii infection in North Africa and will therefore be a useful tool for researchers. It can also be used to propose or enhance appropriate national toxoplasmosis control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariem Rouatbi
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Univ. Manouba, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, 2020 Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Safa Amairia
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Univ. Manouba, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, 2020 Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Yosra Amdouni
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Univ. Manouba, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, 2020 Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Anis Boussaadoun
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Univ. Manouba, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, 2020 Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Ouarda Ayadi
- Université des Frères Mentouri, Constantine 1, Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Route de Batna, El Khroub 25100, Constantine, Algérie
| | - Amira Adel Taha Al-Hosary
- Department of Animal Medicine (Infectious Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, 71526 Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mourad Rekik
- International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box, 950764 Amman 11195, Jordan
| | - Rym Ben Abdallah
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, BPO 74, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Karim Aoun
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, BPO 74, 1002 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Aziz Darghouth
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Univ. Manouba, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, 2020 Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Barbara Wieland
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 5689, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mohamed Gharbi
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Univ. Manouba, École Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire de Sidi Thabet, 2020 Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
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A serologic study on Toxoplasma gondii infection in slaughtered sheep and goats in Qazvin Province, Iran. Trop Anim Health Prod 2019; 51:1289-1293. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-019-01832-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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