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Satyaprakash K, Khan WA, Zade NN, Chaudhari SP, Shinde SV, Kurkure NV, Shembalkar PK. Serological and molecular detection of neurocysticercosis among epileptic patients in Nagpur, Maharashtra state (India). Helminthologia 2023; 60:208-220. [PMID: 38152476 PMCID: PMC10750244 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2023-0023] [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: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC), one of the most important neuroparasitic diseases in humans, is caused by Cysticercus cellulosae, the metacestode stage of digenetic zoonotic cestode Taenia solium. The present study aims at the detection of anti-cysticercus antibodies in the sera of epileptic patients (n=26) visiting a tertiary care hospital in Nagpur, Maharashtra state, India, by an in-house developed indirect IgG-ELISA and enzyme-linked immunoelectro transfer blot (EITB) assay using different antigens (namely, Whole Cyst Antigen (WCA), Cystic Fluid Antigen (CFA), Scolex Antigen (SA), Excretory-Secretory Antigen (ESA) and Membrane-Body Antigen (MBA)) prepared from T. solium metacestodes to find out the status of NCC. An attempt has also been made for molecular detection of NCC from blood samples of those patients by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assay targeted at large subunit rRNA gene of T. solium. The IgG ELISA level of anti-cysticercus antibodies against WCA, CFA, SA, ESA and MBA antigens were as follows: 19.23 %, 23.07 %, 38.46 %, 30.76 % and 15.38 %. The seroreactivity to CFA, SA and ESA was found in equal proportions in patients with ring-enhancing lesions. In the EITB assay, the lower and medium molecular weight protein bands of SA and ESA were immunodominant compared to the higher WCA and CFA peptides. PCR positivity could be observed in 34.6 % (9/26) of the patients under study. It is the first report of detecting NCC among epileptic patients of the Nagpur region of Maharashtra state in India using serological and molecular tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Satyaprakash
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440006
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Barkachha, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, India-231001
| | - W. A. Khan
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440006
| | - N. N. Zade
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440006
| | - S. P. Chaudhari
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440006
| | - S. V. Shinde
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440006
| | - N. V. Kurkure
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440006
| | - P. K. Shembalkar
- Get Well Hospital and Research Institute, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India-440012
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Zulu G, Stelzle D, Mwape KE, Welte TM, Strømme H, Mubanga C, Mutale W, Abraham A, Hachangu A, Schmidt V, Sikasunge CS, Phiri IK, Winkler AS. The epidemiology of human Taenia solium infections: A systematic review of the distribution in Eastern and Southern Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011042. [PMID: 37000841 PMCID: PMC10096517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Taenia solium is a tapeworm that causes taeniosis in humans and cysticercosis in humans and pigs. Within Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA), information on the presence of human taeniosis and cysticercosis seems scarce. This systematic review aimed to describe the current information available and gaps in the epidemiology of human T. solium infections in ESA. METHODS/PRINCIPLE FINDINGS Scientific literature published between 1st January 2000 and 20th June 2022 in international databases [MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Global Health (Ovid), Scopus (Elsevier), African Index Medicus (via WHO Global Index Medicus), and Open Grey] was systematically reviewed for ESA. The study area included 27 countries that make up the ESA region. Information on either taeniosis, cysticercosis or NCC was available for 16 of 27 countries within the region and a total of 113 reports were retained for the review. Most case reports for cysticercosis and NCC were from South Africa, while Tanzania had the most aggregated cysticercosis reports. Eleven countries reported on NCC with seven countries reporting data on NCC and epilepsy. Unconfirmed human T. solium taeniosis cases were reported in nine countries while two countries (Madagascar and Zambia) reported confirmed T. solium cases. The cysticercosis seroprevalence ranged between 0.7-40.8% on antigen (Ag) ELISA and between 13.1-45.3% on antibody (Ab) ELISA. Based on immunoblot tests the Ab seroprevalence was between 1.7-39.3%, while the proportion of NCC-suggestive lesions on brain CT scans was between 1.0-76% depending on the study population. The human taeniosis prevalence based on microscopy ranged between 0.1-14.7%. Based on Copro Ag-ELISA studies conducted in Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zambia, the highest prevalence of 19.7% was reported in Kenya. CONCLUSIONS Despite the public health and economic impact of T. solium in ESA, there are still large gaps in knowledge about the occurrence of the parasite, and the resulting One Health disease complex, and monitoring of T. solium taeniosis and cysticercosis is mostly not in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Zulu
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Ministry of Health, Government of the Republic of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Dominik Stelzle
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kabemba E. Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Tamara M. Welte
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hilde Strømme
- University Library, Medical Library, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chishimba Mubanga
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Annette Abraham
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alex Hachangu
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Veronika Schmidt
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chummy S. Sikasunge
- Department of Para-clinical studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Isaac K. Phiri
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Keller L, Stelzle D, Schmidt V, Carabin H, Reinhold AK, Keller C, Welte TM, Richter V, Amos A, Boeckman L, Harrison W, Winkler AS. Community-level prevalence of epilepsy and of neurocysticercosis among people with epilepsy in the Balaka district of Malawi: A cross-sectional study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010675. [PMID: 36108075 PMCID: PMC9477368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Epilepsy and neurocysticercosis (NCC) prevalence estimates in sub-Saharan Africa are still scarce but show important variation due to the population studied and different screening and diagnosis strategies used. The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence of epileptic seizures and epilepsy in the sampled population, and the proportion of NCC among people with epilepsy (PWE) in a large cross-sectional study in a rural district of southern Malawi.
Methods
We conducted a community-based door-to-door screening study for epileptic seizures in Balaka, Malawi between October and December 2012. Past epileptic seizures were reported through a 15-item questionnaire answered by at least one person per household generating five major criteria. People who screened positive were further examined by a neurologist to establish diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with epilepsy were examined and offered Taenia solium cyst antigen and antibody serological tests, and a CT scan for the diagnosis of NCC.
Results
In total, screening information on 69,595 individuals was obtained for lifetime occurrence of epileptic seizures. 3,100 (4.5%) participants screened positive, of whom 1,913 (62%) could be followed-up and underwent further assessment. Lifetime prevalence was 3.0% (95% Bayesian credible interval [CI] 2.8 to 3.1%) and 1.2% (95%BCI 0.9 to 1.6%) for epileptic seizures and epilepsy, respectively. NCC prevalence among PWE was estimated to be 4.4% (95%BCI 0.8 to 8.5%). A diagnosis of epilepsy was ultimately reached for 455 participants.
Conclusion
The results of this large community-based study contribute to the evaluation and understanding of the burden of epilepsy in the population and of NCC among PWE in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luise Keller
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Stelzle
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Veronika Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hélène Carabin
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
- Département de médecine sociale et préventive, École de santé publique de l’université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP) de l’université de Montréal et du CIUSS du Centre Sud de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique (GREZOSP), Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Ann-Kristin Reinhold
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Claudius Keller
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tamara M. Welte
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Vivien Richter
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Action Amos
- National Epilepsy Association Malawi, International Bureau of Epilepsy, School of Health Social Sciences University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lindsay Boeckman
- The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Wendy Harrison
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
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Noormahomed EV, Nhancupe N, Mufume J, Schooley RT, Foyaca-Sibat H, Benson CA. Neurocysticercosis in Epileptic Children: An Overlooked Condition in Mozambique, Challenges in Diagnosis, Management and Research Priorities. EC MICROBIOLOGY 2021; 17:49-56. [PMID: 37441580 PMCID: PMC10338043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that neurocysticercosis (NCC), the most common cause of acute symptomatic seizures (ASS), epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders, typically presents with a solitary lesion and focal seizures in children from places where cysticercosis is endemic. We report a series of 3 patients, aged 7 to 11 years, with a history of epilepsy and or recurrent headache referred from Mocuba to the Quaternary Central Hospital in Quelimane, Zambeze Province, Mozambique, an area endemic for cysticercosis. Clinical history and examination, blood chemistry and hemogram screening, serological testing for Cysticercus antigens and antibodies detection, and a computerized tomography (CT) scan, were performed. NCC was confirmed in all 3 patients, based on criteria defined by Del Bruto. Two confirmed cases tested positive for antigen (Ag) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with CT lesions in different stages of parasite evolution. Headache/encephalopathy was present in all patients. This case series of children with epilepsy confirms for the first time the presence of NCC in children from Zambezia province, an east-central region of Mozambique. Further, NCC should be included in the differential diagnosis of children with ASS, epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Future studies should be targeted to the identification of biomarkers to support the diagnosis of NCC, given the limited availability of imaging tools and limited value of serological assays for the diagnosis and management of NCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Virgínia Noormahomed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Noémia Nhancupe
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
- Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jerónimo Mufume
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Robert T Schooley
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Humberto Foyaca-Sibat
- Department of Neurology, Nelson Mandela Academic Central Hospital, Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
| | - Constance A Benson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, California USA
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Shongwe NA, Byaruhanga C, Dorny P, Dermauw V, Qekwana DN. Knowledge, practices and seroprevalence of Taenia species in smallholder farms in Gauteng, South Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244055. [PMID: 33338060 PMCID: PMC7748137 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcine cysticercosis and associated human infections are endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Poor agricultural practices, sanitary practices, and lack of knowledge increase the burden of the diseases in susceptible populations. This study investigates the seroprevalence of Taenia spp. in township pigs in Gauteng, South Africa and describes knowledge and farming practices of pig farmers regarding T. solium infections. Blood samples were collected from 126 pigs in three Gauteng township areas, and analyzed for active Taenia spp. infection using the B158/B60 Ag-ELISA. Farmer questionnaire surveys were conducted in four township areas to investigate the level of knowledge and practices associated with porcine cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis. Logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between predictor variables and the outcome variable, knowledge of porcine cysticercosis or knowledge of neurocysticercosis. Overall, 7% of the pigs were seropositive for active Taenia spp. infection. 46% of farmers practiced a free-ranging system, while 25% practiced a semi-intensive system. Latrines were absent on all farms; however, 95% of farmers indicated that they have access to latrines at home. Most farmers had no knowledge of porcine cysticercosis (55%) or neurocysticercosis (79%), and this was not associated with any of the factors investigated. The prevalence of active Taenia spp. infection was reasonably low in this study, yet the knowledge level was also low, thus calling for further educational and training programmes to prevent Taenia spp. transmission in these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nothando Altrecia Shongwe
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Charles Byaruhanga
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Veronique Dermauw
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Daniel Nenene Qekwana
- Section of Veterinary Public Health, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- * E-mail:
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Krecek RC, Rabinowitz PM, Conrad PA. Demystifying and Demonstrating the Value of a One Health Approach to Parasitological Challenges. Vet Parasitol 2020; 287:109202. [PMID: 33045550 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health and encourages collaboration between diverse disciplines to address complex health problems. In this paper, 3 academics, with diverse training, experience and backgrounds who each work on different pathogenic parasites, will share their stories of tackling parasitic challenges by applying a One Health approach. The pathogenic parasites to be discussed include the helminth Taenia solium and protozoans Giardia, Theileria, Babesia, Neospora and Toxoplasma species. The 3 narratives focus on research and clinical case-based challenges and illustrate where collaboration between human, animal, and environmental health scientists either has or could lead to improved control of human and animal health as well as important research discoveries. The need for better evaluation of interventions and scientific evidence to support changes in clinical practice and encourage enhanced collaboration between human and veterinary clinicians, as well as new governmental policies to improve public and wildlife health, are described. The need for a range of evidence-based metrics to monitor the success and impact of the One Health approach to veterinary parasitology is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosina C Krecek
- 4302 Berwick Place, College Station, Texas 77845, United States; Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, South Africa
| | - Peter M Rabinowitz
- Departments of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Global Health, Family Medicine, University of Washington Center for One Health Research, 1959 NE Pacific Street HSB F551, Box 357234, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Patricia A Conrad
- One Health Institute and Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, 1 Shields Avenue, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States
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Owolabi LF, Adamu B, Jibo AM, Owolabi SD, Imam AI, Alhaji ID. Neurocysticercosis in people with epilepsy in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence and strength of association. Seizure 2020; 76:1-11. [PMID: 31935478 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We analyzed studies on neurocysticercosis (NCC) and epilepsy across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to determine the prevalence of NCC in people with epilepsy (PWE) and the strength of association of NCC with epilepsy in the region. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the existing literature on NCC and epilepsy in SSA. Diagnostic methods for NCC in the studies selected for our analysis included one or more of the following: positive brain CT, serum ELISA and serum EITB. A common prevalence and overall odds-ratio were then estimated using meta-analysis. RESULTS A total of 25 (overall) and 20 (case-control) studies met the inclusion criteria for the prevalence and strength of association estimation, respectively. The overall prevalence estimate of NCC in PWE was 22 % [95 % confidence interval [CI]: 17-27.0 %). The figures were higher in the Southern and Eastern Africa sub-region (45 % and 25 % respectively) but lower in the Central and Western Africa sub-region (6 % and 15 % respectively). The prevalence of NCC estimate in PWE varied with method of diagnosis; with 29 % 18 % and 15 % in studies that used a minimum of Brain CT, ELISA and EITB respectively. The overall odds ratio was 2.4 (95 % CI 2.1-2.8), p < 0.0001. CONCLUSION The overall prevalence of NCC in PWE in SSA was 22 %. The prevalence figure varied with the sub-region of SSA. The odd of NCC in PWE in SSA was 2.4. In spite of the sub-regional variation in NCC prevalence, this meta-analysis suggests that neurocysticercosis contributes significantly to epilepsy in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bappa Adamu
- College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia
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Clark EH, Serpa JA. Tissue Parasites in HIV Infection. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2019; 21:49. [PMID: 31734888 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-019-0703-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to discuss the current knowledge of HIV and tissue parasite co-infection in the context of transmission enhancement, clinical characteristics, treatment, relapse, and clinical outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS The pathophysiology and clinical sequelae of tissue parasites in people living with HIV (PLWH) have been well described for only a handful of organisms, primarily protozoa such as malaria and leishmaniasis. Available published data indicate that the interactions between HIV and tissue parasites are highly variable depending on the infecting organism and the degree of host immunosuppression. Some tissue parasites, such as Schistosoma species, are known to facilitate the transmission of HIV. Conversely, uncontrolled HIV infection can lead to the earlier and more severe presentation of a variety of tissue parasites and can make treatment more challenging. Although much investigation remains to be done to better understand the interactions between consequences of HIV and tissue parasite co-infection, it is important to disseminate the current knowledge on this topic to health care providers in order to prevent, treat, and control infections in PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva H Clark
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA. .,Houston HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety (IQuEST), Baylor College of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2450 Holcombe Blvd., Suite 01Y, Houston, TX, 77021, USA.
| | - Jose A Serpa
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Clark E, Serpa JA. Tropical Diseases in HIV. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-019-00194-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Duque KR, Burneo JG. Clinical presentation of neurocysticercosis-related epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2017; 76:151-157. [PMID: 28882721 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common parasitic infection of the central nervous system and a major risk factor for seizures and epilepsy. Seizure types in NCC vary largely across studies and seizure semiology is poorly understood. We discuss here the studies regarding seizure types and seizure semiology in NCC, and examine the clinical presentation in patients with NCC and drug-resistant epilepsy. We also provide evidence of the role of MRI and EEG in the diagnosis of NCC-related epilepsy. Focal seizures are reported in 60-90% of patients with NCC-related epilepsy, and around 90% of all seizures registered prospectively are focal not evolving to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures. A great number of cases suggest that seizure semiology is topographically related to NCC lesions. Patients with hippocampal sclerosis and NCC have different clinical and neurophysiological characteristics than those with hippocampal sclerosis alone. Different MRI protocols have allowed to better differentiate NCC from other etiologies. Lesions' stages might account on the chances of finding an interictal epileptiform discharge. Studies pursuing the seizure onset in patients with NCC are lacking and they are specially needed to determine both whether the reported events of individual cases are seizures, and whether they are related to the NCC lesion or lesions. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Neurocysticercosis and Epilepsy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin R Duque
- Center for Global Health-Tumbes, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru; Hypnos Center for Sleep Medicine, Clínica San Felipe, Lima, Peru.
| | - Jorge G Burneo
- Epilepsy Program, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine, Western University, London, Canada.
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Gripper LB, Welburn SC. The causal relationship between neurocysticercosis infection and the development of epilepsy - a systematic review. Infect Dis Poverty 2017; 6:31. [PMID: 28376856 PMCID: PMC5381143 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-017-0245-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a parasitic infection of the human central nervous system, the most common form of which involves infection of the brain parenchyma with the larval form of the Taenia solium tapeworm. A causal relationship between such an NCC infection and the development of epilepsy in infected individuals is acknowledged, in part supported by high levels of comorbidity in endemic countries worldwide. METHODS This study undertook a systematic review and critical analysis of the NCC-epilepsy relationship with the primary objective of quantifying the risk of developing epilepsy following NCC infection. A secondary aim was to analyse the proportions of NCC-associated epilepsy within different populations. Significant emphasis was placed on the importance of neuroimaging (CT or MRI) availability and use of clear guidelines for epilepsy diagnosis, in order to avoid overestimations of prevalence rates of either condition; a limitation identified in several previous studies. RESULTS A common odds ratio of 2.76 was identified from meta-analysis of case-control studies, indicating that an individual infected with NCC has almost a three times higher risk of developing epilepsy than an uninfected individual. Furthermore, meta-analysis of studies identified a common proportion of 31.54% of epilepsy cases associated with NCC infection which suggests that amongst epileptic populations in at risk countries, approximately one-third may be associated with NCC infection. CONCLUSION A significant finding was the lack of good clinical data to enable accurate determination of a causal relationship. Even studies that were included had noticeable limitations, including a general lack of consistency in diagnostics, and lack of accurate epidemiological data. This review highlights a need for consistency in research in this field. In the absence of reliable estimates of its global burden, NCC will remain of low priority in the eyes of funding agencies - a truly neglected disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy B. Gripper
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor’s Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Scotland UK
| | - Susan C. Welburn
- Division of Infection and Pathway Medicine, Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Chancellor’s Building, 49 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB Scotland UK
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Pappala BCS, Indugula JP, Talabhatula SK, Kolli RS, Shrivastava AK, Sahu PS. Diagnosis of neurocysticercosis among patients with seizures in northern coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, India. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtb.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Ron-Garrido L, Coral-Almeida M, Gabriël S, Benitez-Ortiz W, Saegerman C, Dorny P, Berkvens D, Abatih EN. Distribution and Potential Indicators of Hospitalized Cases of Neurocysticercosis and Epilepsy in Ecuador from 1996 to 2008. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0004236. [PMID: 26580210 PMCID: PMC4651332 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epilepsy is one of the most common signs of Neurocysticercosis (NCC). In this study, spatial and temporal variations in the incidence of hospitalized cases (IHC) of epilepsy and NCC in Ecuadorian municipalities were analyzed. Additionally, potential socio-economic and landscape indicators were evaluated in order to understand in part the macro-epidemiology of the Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis complex. Methodology Data on the number of hospitalized epilepsy and NCC cases by municipality of residence were obtained from morbidity-hospital systems in Ecuador. SatScan software was used to determine whether variations in the IHC of epilepsy and NCC in space and time. In addition, several socio-economic and landscape variables at municipality level were used to study factors intervening in the macro-epidemiology of these diseases. Negative Binomial regression models through stepwise selection and Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) were used to explain the variations in the IHC of epilepsy and NCC. Principal findings Different clusters were identified through space and time. Traditional endemic zones for NCC and epilepsy, recognized in other studies were confirmed in our study. However, for both disorders more recent clusters were identified. Among municipalities, an increasing tendency for IHC of epilepsy, and a decreasing tendency for the IHC of NCC were observed over time. In contrast, within municipalities a positive linear relationship between both disorders was found. An increase in the implementation of systems for eliminating excrements would help to reduce the IHC of epilepsy by 1.00% (IC95%; 0.2%–1.8%) and by 5.12% (IC95%; 3.63%-6.59%) for the IHC of NCC. The presence of pig production was related to IHC of NCC. Conclusion/Significance Both disorders were related to the lack of an efficient system for eliminating excrements. Given the appearance of recent epilepsy clusters, these locations should be studied in depth to discriminate epilepsies due to NCC from epilepsies due to other causes. Field studies are needed to evaluate the true prevalence of cysticercosis in humans and pigs in different zones of the country in order to better implement and manage prevention and/or control campaigns. T. solium neurocysticercosis is considered the most important parasitic disease of the central nervous system in humans; it is estimated to be responsible for at least one third of acquired epilepsies in developing countries. In Ecuador, the relationship between acquired epilepsy and neurocysticercosis remains unclear due to different factors such as, the lack of specialized health care personnel, appropriate diagnostic techniques and the fact that acquired epilepsy is characteristic of many other infectious and non-infectious diseases in the endemic zones of the country. In this study, spatio-temporal information and potential socio-economic indicators were studied for the number of hospitalized neurocysticercosis and epileptic cases in the country in order to locate and characterize important clusters in space and time. This study identified traditional endemic clusters in the highlands for both conditions as well as new clusters appearing in recent years in other zones not considered endemic. Also the incidence of hospitalized cases of epilepsy and neurocysticercosis were significantly higher in urban zones, probably due to a better access to health facilities. The presence of systems for excrement disposal was significantly associated with a reduction in the incident cases for both epilepsy and neurocysticercosis. More studies are needed to evaluate the true prevalence of neurocysticercosis associated epilepsy in humans and cysticercosis in pigs around the country in order to better implement and manage control campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenin Ron-Garrido
- Universidad Central del Ecuador, Centro Internacional de Zoonosis (CIZ), Ciudadela Universitaria, Quito, Ecuador
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis applied to the Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULg), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marco Coral-Almeida
- Universidad Central del Ecuador, Centro Internacional de Zoonosis (CIZ), Ciudadela Universitaria, Quito, Ecuador
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Universidad de las Américas, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Quito Ecuador
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Merelbeke, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Washington Benitez-Ortiz
- Universidad Central del Ecuador, Centro Internacional de Zoonosis (CIZ), Ciudadela Universitaria, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis applied to the Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULg), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Dirk Berkvens
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Emmanuel Nji Abatih
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Mwape KE, Blocher J, Wiefek J, Schmidt K, Dorny P, Praet N, Chiluba C, Schmidt H, Phiri IK, Winkler AS, Gabriël S. Prevalence of Neurocysticercosis in People with Epilepsy in the Eastern Province of Zambia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003972. [PMID: 26285031 PMCID: PMC4540454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Zambia is endemic for Taenia solium taeniosis and cysticercosis. In this single-centered, cross-sectional, community-based study, the role of neurocysticercosis (NCC) as a cause of epilepsy was examined. People with epilepsy (PWE, n = 56) were identified in an endemic area using a screening questionnaire followed by in-depth interviews and neurological examination. Computed tomography (CT) was performed on 49 people with active epilepsy (PWAE) and their sera (specific antibody and antigen detection, n = 56) and stools (copro-antigen detection, n = 54) were analyzed. The CT scan findings were compared to a group of 40 CT scan controls. Of the PWE, 39.3% and 23.2% were positive for cysticercal antibodies and antigens, respectively, and 14.8% for coproantigens (taeniosis). Lesions highly suggestive of NCC were detected in 24.5% and definite NCC lesions in 4.1% of CT scans of PWAE. This compares to 2.5% and 0%, respectively, in the control CT scans. Using the Del Brutto diagnostic criteria, 51.8% of the PWAE were diagnosed with probable or definitive NCC and this rose to 57.1% when the adapted criteria, as proposed by Gabriël et al. (adding the sero-antigen ELISA test as a major criterion), were used. There was no statistically significant relationship between NCC, current age, age at first seizure and gender. This study suggests that NCC is the single most important cause of epilepsy in the study area. Additional large-scale studies, combining a community based prevalence study for epilepsy with neuroimaging and serological analysis in different areas are needed to estimate the true impact of neurocysticercosis in endemic regions and efforts should be instituted to the control of T. solium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabemba E. Mwape
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Joachim Blocher
- Department of Neurology, Medical University Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Elbe-Kliniken Stade/Buxtehude GmbH, Stade, Germany
| | | | - Kathie Schmidt
- Department of Neuroradiology, Medical University Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Praet
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Holger Schmidt
- Department of Neurology, Elbe-Kliniken Stade/Buxtehude GmbH, Stade, Germany
| | - Isaac K. Phiri
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Andrea S. Winkler
- Department of Neurology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Braae UC, Saarnak CFL, Mukaratirwa S, Devleesschauwer B, Magnussen P, Johansen MV. Taenia solium taeniosis/cysticercosis and the co-distribution with schistosomiasis in Africa. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:323. [PMID: 26065414 PMCID: PMC4465723 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0938-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to map the distribution of Taenia solium taeniosis/cysticercosis and the co-distribution with schistosomiasis in Africa. These two major neglected tropical diseases are presumed to be widely distributed in Africa, but currently the level of co-distribution is unclear. Methods A literature search on T. solium taeniosis/cysticercosis was performed to compile all known studies on the presence of T. solium and apparent prevalence of taeniosis and porcine cysticercosis in Africa. Studies were geo-referenced using an online gazetteer. A Bayesian framework was used to combine the epidemiological data on the apparent prevalence with external information on test characteristics to estimate informed district-level prevalence of taeniosis and porcine cysticercosis. Districts with T. solium taeniosis/cysticercosis presence were cross-referenced with the Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Database for schistosomiasis presence. Results The search strategies identified 141 reports of T. solium in Africa from 1985 to 2014 from a total of 476 districts in 29 countries, 20 with porcine cysticercosis, 22 with human cysticercosis, and 16 with taeniosis, in addition to 2 countries identified from OIE reports. All 31 countries were considered, on national scale, to have co-distribution with schistosomiasis. Presence of both parasites was confirmed in 124 districts in 17 countries. The informed prevalence of taeniosis and porcine cysticercosis were estimated for 14 and 41 districts in 10 and 13 countries, respectively. Conclusions With the paucity of data, T. solium infection is grossly under-reported and expected to be more widespread than this study suggests. In areas where co-distribution occurs there is a need for increased emphasis on evaluation of integrated intervention approaches for these two helminth infections and allocation of resources for evaluating the extent of adverse effects caused by mass drug administration. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-015-0938-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uffe Christian Braae
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Diseases, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Christopher F L Saarnak
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Diseases, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Samson Mukaratirwa
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Brecht Devleesschauwer
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium. .,Institute of Health and Society (IRSS), Université catholique de Louvain, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Pascal Magnussen
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Diseases, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark. .,Centre for Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1353, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Maria Vang Johansen
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Diseases, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
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Hunter E, Burton K, Iqbal A, Birchall D, Jackson M, Rogathe J, Jusabani A, Gray W, Aris E, Kamuyu G, Wilkins PP, Newton CR, Walker R. Cysticercosis and epilepsy in rural Tanzania: a community-based case-control and imaging study. Trop Med Int Health 2015; 20:1171-1179. [PMID: 25940786 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the contribution of neurocysticercosis (NCC) to the burden of epilepsy in a rural Tanzanian population. METHODS We identified adult people with epilepsy (PWE) in a door-to-door study in an established demographic surveillance site. PWE and community controls were tested for antibodies to Taenia solium, the causative agent of NCC, and all PWE were offered a computed tomography (CT) head scan. Data on household occupancy and sanitation, pig-keeping and pork consumption were collected from PWE and controls and associations with epilepsy were assessed using chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS Six of 218 PWE had antibodies to T. solium (2.8%; 95% CI 0.6-4.9), compared to none of 174 controls (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.04). Lesions compatible with NCC were seen in eight of 200 CT scans (4.0%; 95% CI 1.3-6.7). A total of 176 PWE had both investigations of whom two had positive serology along with NCC-compatible lesions on CT (1.1%; 95% 0.3-4.0). No associations between epilepsy and any risk factors for NCC were identified. CONCLUSIONS Neurocysticercosis is present in this population but at a lower prevalence than elsewhere in Tanzania and sub-Saharan Africa. Insights from low-prevalence areas may inform public health interventions designed to reduce the burden of preventable epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewan Hunter
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kathryn Burton
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ahmed Iqbal
- Institute of Neurosciences, Southern General Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Daniel Birchall
- Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Margaret Jackson
- Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Jane Rogathe
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - William Gray
- Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, North Shields, UK
| | - Eric Aris
- Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Charles R Newton
- Centre for Geographical Medicine (Coast), Kilifi, Kenya.,Muhimbili-Wellcome Programme, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Walker
- Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, North Shields, UK.,Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Kungu JM, Dione MM, Ocaido M, Ejobi F. Status of Taenia solium cysticercosis and predisposing factors in developing countries involved in pig farming. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ONE HEALTH 2015. [DOI: 10.14202/ijoh.2015.6-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Giordani MT, Tamarozzi F, Cattaneo F, Brunetti E. Three cases of imported neurocysticercosis in Northern Italy. J Travel Med 2014; 21:17-23. [PMID: 24383650 DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is an important cause of adult-onset seizures in endemic areas, whereas it is emerging in some nonendemic areas as well because of extensive immigration. METHOD We describe three cases of imported NCC recently admitted to San Bortolo Hospital in Vicenza, located in Northern Italy. RESULTS All patients were immigrants. One patient was human immunodeficiency virus positive with severe immunosuppression. The diagnosis of NCC was made on the basis of magnetic resonance results; failure of anti-Toxoplasma, antitubercular, and antifungal therapy; and regression of the cystic lesions after empiric therapy with albendazole. Serology was positive in only one case. In one patient, NCC was diagnosed by biopsy of the brain lesion. CONCLUSION In nonendemic countries, NCC should be included in the differential diagnosis of all patients coming from endemic areas with seizures, hydrocephalus, and compatible lesions on brain imaging. Long-term follow-up is required but may be difficult to implement because these patients tend to move in search of employment. Screening of patient's household contacts for Taenia solium infection should always be carried out.
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Rottbeck R, Nshimiyimana JF, Tugirimana P, Düll UE, Sattler J, Hategekimana JC, Hitayezu J, Bruckmaier I, Borchert M, Gahutu JB, Dieckmann S, Harms G, Mockenhaupt FP, Ignatius R. High prevalence of cysticercosis in people with epilepsy in southern Rwanda. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2558. [PMID: 24244783 PMCID: PMC3828157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neurocysticercosis (NCC), the central nervous system infection by Taenia solium larvae, is a preventable and treatable cause of epilepsy. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the role of NCC in epilepsy differs geographically and, overall, is poorly defined. We aimed at contributing specific, first data for Rwanda, assessing factors associated with NCC, and evaluating a real-time PCR assay to diagnose NCC in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Methodology/Principal findings At three healthcare facilities in southern Rwanda, 215 people with epilepsy (PWE) and 51 controls were clinically examined, interviewed, and tested by immunoblot for cysticerci-specific serum antibodies. Additionally, CSF samples from PWE were tested for anticysticercal antibodies by ELISA and for parasite DNA by PCR. Cranial computer tomography (CT) scans were available for 12.1% of PWE with additional symptoms suggestive of NCC. The Del Brutto criteria were applied for NCC diagnosis. Cysticerci-specific serum antibodies were found in 21.8% of PWE and 4% of controls (odds ratio (OR), 6.69; 95% confidence interval (95%CI), 1.6–58.7). Seropositivity was associated with age and lack of safe drinking water. Fifty (23.3%) PWE were considered NCC cases (definitive, based on CT scans, 7.4%; probable, mainly based on positive immunoblots, 15.8%). In CSF samples from NCC cases, anticysticercal antibodies were detected in 10% (definitive cases, 25%) and parasite DNA in 16% (definitive cases, 44%). Immunoblot-positive PWE were older (medians, 30 vs. 22 years), more frequently had late-onset epilepsy (at age >25 years; 43.5% vs. 8.5%; OR, 8.30; 95%CI, 3.5–20.0), and suffered from significantly fewer episodes of seizures in the preceding six months than immunoblot-negative PWE. Conclusions/Significance NCC is present and contributes to epilepsy in southern Rwanda. Systematic investigations into porcine and human cysticercosis as well as health education and hygiene measures for T. solium control are needed. PCR might provide an additional, highly specific tool in NCC diagnosis. Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the infection of the brain with larvae of the pig tapeworm (Taenia solium), which results from the ingestion of, e.g., food or water contaminated with the eggs of this helminth. Seizures and epilepsy are the most often reported clinical manifestations. The diagnosis is based on various clinical, radiological, microbiological, and epidemiological criteria. NCC is treatable and preventable. Knowledge about its contribution to epilepsy in a given region therefore helps to manage and prevent the disease. Our study aimed at investigating the prevalence of and risk factors associated with NCC in southern Rwanda. Additionally, we evaluated a new diagnostic method based on the detection of parasite DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid of people with epilepsy for its usefulness. By applying well-established diagnostic criteria for NCC, we identified 16 definitive and 34 probable NCC cases among 215 people with epilepsy in southern Rwanda. The risk of NCC was higher in those lacking access to safe drinking water. This highlights opportunities for the prevention of NCC, and consequently, epilepsy in this region. Parasite DNA could be detected in the cerebrospinal fluid of 16% of the NCC patients. Thus, this method might help to identify NCC cases, particularly when radiology cannot be performed easily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Rottbeck
- Department of Internal Medicine/Neurology, Butare University Teaching Hospital, Butare, Rwanda
| | | | - Pierrot Tugirimana
- Department of Internal Medicine/Neurology, Butare University Teaching Hospital, Butare, Rwanda
| | | | - Janko Sattler
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Janvier Hitayezu
- Department of Internal Medicine/Neurology, Butare University Teaching Hospital, Butare, Rwanda
| | - Irmengard Bruckmaier
- Department of Internal Medicine/Neurology, Butare University Teaching Hospital, Butare, Rwanda
| | - Matthias Borchert
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jean Bosco Gahutu
- Clinical Department, Medical Biology, Butare University Teaching Hospital, Butare, Rwanda
| | - Sebastian Dieckmann
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gundel Harms
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank P. Mockenhaupt
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Ignatius
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Giacomet V, Penagini F, Erba P, Nello FD, Nannini P, Pisanelli S, Ramponi G, Zuccotti GV. Neurocysticercosis in a 14-year-old boy in Italy: An unexpected case. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(13)60078-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Mwanjali G, Kihamia C, Kakoko DVC, Lekule F, Ngowi H, Johansen MV, Thamsborg SM, Willingham AL. Prevalence and risk factors associated with human Taenia solium infections in Mbozi District, Mbeya Region, Tanzania. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2102. [PMID: 23516650 PMCID: PMC3597471 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2012] [Accepted: 01/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Taenia solium cysticercosis/taeniosis is emerging as a serious public health and economic problem in many developing countries. This study was conducted to determine prevalence and risk factors of human T. solium infections in Mbeya Region, Tanzania. Methods and Findings A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 13 villages of Mbozi district in 2009. Sera of 830 people (mean 37.9±11.3 years (SD); 43% females) were tested for circulating cysticerci antigen (Ag-ELISA) and antibody (Ab-ELISA). A subset of persons found seropositive by Ag-ELISA underwent computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain for evidence of neurocysticercosis. Stool samples from 820 of the same participants were tested for taeniosis by copro-antigens (copro-Ag-ELISA) and formol-ether concentration technique. Cases of T. solium taeniosis were confirmed serologically by EITB assay (rES38). A questionnaire was used for identification of risk factors. Active cysticercosis by positive Ag-ELISA was found in 139 (16.7%) persons while anti-cysticercal antibodies were detected in 376 (45.3%) persons by Ab-ELISA. Among 55 persons positive for Ag-ELISA undergoing CT scan, 30 (54.6%) were found to have structures in the brain suggestive of neurocysticercosis. Using faecal analysis, 43 (5.2%) stool samples tested positive for taeniosis by copro-Ag-ELISA while Taenia eggs were detected in 9 (1.1%) stool samples by routine coprology. Antibodies specifically against adult T. solium were detected in 34 copro-Ag-ELISA positive participants by EITB (rES38) indicating T. solium taeniosis prevalence of 4.1%. Increasing age and hand washing by dipping in contrast to using running water, were found associated with Ag-ELISA seropositivity by logistic regression. Gender (higher risk in females) and water source were risk factors associated with Ab-ELISA seropositivity. Reported symptoms of chronic severe headaches and history of epileptic seizures were found associated with positive Ag-ELISA (p≤0.05). Conclusion The present study indicates T. solium infection in humans is highly endemic in the southern highlands of Tanzania. Cysticercosis caused by the zoonotic pork tapeworm, Taenia solium, is emerging as a serious public health and agricultural problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Surveys have shown cysticercosis in pigs to be highly prevalent in multiple foci in Tanzania, and a hospital-based study in the northern highlands indicated neurocysticercosis as an important cause of epileptic seizures in humans. We present here a cross-sectional community-based survey on the prevalence and risk factors of human cysticercosis and taeniosis conducted in the southern highlands – the major pig-producing area of the country. The most striking findings were that more than 15% of people surveyed were found to have active cysticercosis and nearly half of them were found to have been exposed to larval T. solium indicating a high level of environmental contamination with T. solium eggs. This was supported by finding over 4% of people having had T. solium tapeworms. A subset of persons found positive serologically for active cysticercosis underwent brain scanning and more than half of them were found to have neurocysticercosis. This strong evidence that T. solium cysticercosis/neurocysticercosis/taeniosis is highly endemic in the southern highlands of Tanzania demands urgent attention of regional and national authorities to combat the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Mwanjali
- School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Charles Kihamia
- School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Faustin Lekule
- Faculty of Agriculture, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Helena Ngowi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Maria Vang Johansen
- Section for Parasitology, Health and Development, Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Stig Milan Thamsborg
- Section for Parasitology, Health and Development, Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Arve Lee Willingham
- Section for Parasitology, Health and Development, Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Nunes DDS, Gonzaga HT, Ribeiro VDS, da Cunha JP, Costa-Cruz JM. Taenia saginata metacestode antigenic fractions obtained by ion-exchange chromatography: potential source of immunodominant markers applicable in the immunodiagnosis of human neurocysticercosis. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2013; 76:36-41. [PMID: 23433713 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2013.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to fractionate and partially characterize fractions obtained from the total saline extract (SE) of Taenia saginata metacestodes after ion-exchange procedure in carboxymethyl sepharose (CM) and diethylaminoethyl sepharose (DEAE) resins, as a source of antigenic markers applicable in the immunodiagnosis of neurocysticercosis (NCC). For IgG detection by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblotting, 140 serum samples were analyzed: 45 from patients with NCC (G1), 50 from patients with other parasitic infections (G2), and 45 from healthy individuals. Sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), area under curve (AUC), and likelihood ratios (LR) were calculated. CM S2 and DEAE S2 fractions provided high diagnostic values (Se 88.8% and 93.4%; Sp 93.7% and 92.6%; AUC 0.965 and 0.987; LR+ 14.07 and 12.67; LR- 0.11 and 0.07, respectively). In conclusion, CM S2 and DEAE S2 fractions are important sources of specific peptides, with high efficiency to diagnose NCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela da Silva Nunes
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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Millogo A, Nitiéma P, Carabin H, Boncoeur-Martel MP, Rajshekhar V, Tarnagda Z, Praet N, Dorny P, Cowan L, Ganaba R, Hounton S, Preux PM, Cissé R. Prevalence of neurocysticercosis among people with epilepsy in rural areas of Burkina Faso. Epilepsia 2012; 53:2194-202. [PMID: 23148555 PMCID: PMC5459323 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2012.03687.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the lifetime prevalence of neurocysticercosis (NCC)-associated epilepsy and the proportion of NCC among people with epilepsy in three Burkina Faso villages. METHODS Three villages were selected to represent three types of pig-rearing methods: (1) Batondo, where pigs are left to roam; (2) Pabré, where pigs are mostly tethered or penned; and (3) Nyonyogo, where the majority of residents are Muslim and few pigs are raised. In Batondo and Nyonyogo, all concessions (a group of several households) were included. Half of the concessions in Pabré were randomly chosen. All households of selected concessions were included, and one person per household was randomly selected for epilepsy screening and serologic testing for cysticercosis. Self-reported cases of epilepsy were also examined and confirmed cases included in analyses other than the estimate of NCC-associated epilepsy prevalence. Epilepsy was defined as ever having had more than one episode of unprovoked seizures. Individuals with medically confirmed epilepsy had a computerized tomography (CT) scan of the brain before and after contrast medium injection. The diagnosis of NCC was made using a modification of the criteria of Del Brutto et al. KEY FINDINGS Thirty-nine (4%) of 888 randomly selected villagers and 33 (94%) of 35 self-reported seizures cases were confirmed to have epilepsy by medical examination. Among the 68 participants with epilepsy who had a CT scan, 20 patients were diagnosed with definitive or probable NCC for a proportion of 46.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 30.2-64.1) in Batondo and 45.5% (95% CI 19.0-74.1) in Pabré. No cases of NCC were identified in Nyonyogo. SIGNIFICANCE All the definitive and probable cases of NCC were from the two villages where pig breeding is common. Prevention policies intended to reduce the burden of epilepsy in this country should include measures designed to interrupt the life cycle of Taenia solium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanase Millogo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sourou Sanou, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Pascal Nitiéma
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, OK, USA
| | - Hélène Carabin
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, OK, USA
| | | | - Vedantam Rajshekhar
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Zékiba Tarnagda
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Nicolas Praet
- Department of Animal Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Animal Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Linda Cowan
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, OK, USA
| | - Rasmané Ganaba
- Agence de Formation, de Recherche et d’Expertise en Santé pour l’Afrique (AFRICSanté), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Sennen Hounton
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Branch, Technical Division, UNFPA, New York, USA
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- Institut d’Épidémiologie neurologique et de Neurologie Tropicale (IENT), Université de Limoges, France
| | - Rabiou Cissé
- Department of radiodiagnosis and medical imagery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Yalgado Ouédraogo, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
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Gabriël S, Blocher J, Dorny P, Abatih EN, Schmutzhard E, Ombay M, Mathias B, Winkler AS. Added value of antigen ELISA in the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis in resource poor settings. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1851. [PMID: 23094118 PMCID: PMC3475663 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common cause of acquired epilepsy in Taenia solium endemic areas, primarily situated in low-income countries. Diagnosis is largely based upon the “Del Brutto diagnostic criteria” using the definitive/probable/no NCC diagnosis approach. Neuroimaging and specific T. solium cysticercosis antibody detection results are at the mainstay of this diagnosis, while antigen detection in serum has never been included. This study aimed at evaluating the addition of antigen detection as a major diagnostic criterion, especially in areas where neuroimaging is absent. Methods The B158/B60 monoclonal antibody-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of circulating cysticercus antigen was carried out retrospectively on serum samples collected during a hospital-based study from 83 people with epilepsy (PWE) in an endemic area. Results The addition of antigen results as a major criterion allowed the correct diagnosis of definitive NCC in 10 out of 17 patients as opposed to 0/17 without antigen results in the absence of neuroimaging. A sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 84% were determined for the diagnosis of active NCC using antigen ELISA. While the use of a higher cutoff improves the specificity of the test to 96%, it decreases its sensitivity to 83%. Conclusions In areas where neuroimaging is absent, NCC diagnosis according to the existing criteria is problematic. Taking into account its limitations for diagnosis of inactive NCC, antigen detection can be of added value for diagnosing NCC in PWE by supporting diagnostic and treatment decisions. Therefore, we recommend a revision of the “Del Brutto diagnostic criteria” for use in resource poor areas and suggest the inclusion of serum antigen detection as a major criterion. Neurocysticercosis is a parasitic infection of the central nervous system and a common cause of epilepsy in Taenia solium cysticercosis endemic countries. According to the current diagnostic criteria proposed by Del Brutto and colleagues, the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis is mainly based on neuroimaging and detection of specific antibodies. Unfortunately, especially neuroimaging is rarely available in endemic countries. The authors analyzed the value of a test that detects antigens that are excreted by living cysts in people with epilepsy. Different diagnostic scenarios and cut-off values are discussed with the respective sensitivity and specificity of the test. When using the antigen-detecting test, considerably more people with epilepsy were diagnosed correctly with neurocysticercosis. There are some concerns about possible false positive results in other cases. The test was useful for the detection of people with living cysts (active neurocysticercosis), who need further diagnostic evaluation and specific treatment. The authors recommend the addition of this test in the diagnostic criteria for neurocysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Gabriël
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joachim Blocher
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Pierre Dorny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Emmanuel Nji Abatih
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Erich Schmutzhard
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michaeli Ombay
- Mental Health Unit, Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Mbulu, Tanzania
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Nitiéma P, Carabin H, Hounton S, Praet N, Cowan LD, Ganaba R, Kompaoré C, Tarnagda Z, Dorny P, Millogo A, ÉFÉCAB. Prevalence case-control study of epilepsy in three Burkina Faso villages. Acta Neurol Scand 2012; 126:270-8. [PMID: 22289127 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2011.01639.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the association between the prevalence of epilepsy and potential risk factors in three Burkina Faso villages. METHODS Three villages were selected based on local reports of high numbers of epilepsy cases and pig-rearing practices. One person aged 7 or older was selected at random from all households of selected concessions for epilepsy screening and blood sampling. Epilepsy was confirmed by a physician using the ILAE definition. The cross-sectional associations between epilepsy and selected factors and seroresponse to the antigens of Taenia solium were estimated using a Bayesian hierarchical logistic regression. Prevalence odds ratios (POR) and their 95% Bayesian Credible Intervals (95% BCI) were estimated. RESULTS Of 888 individuals interviewed, 39 of 70 screened positive were confirmed to have epilepsy for a lifetime prevalence of 4.5% (95% CI: 3.3; 6.0). The prevalence of epilepsy was associated with a positive reaction to cysticercosis Ag-ELISA serology (POR = 3.1, 95% BCI = 1.0; 8.3), past pork consumption (POR = 9.7, 95% BCI = 2.5; 37.9), and being salaried or a trader compared to a farmer or housewife (POR = 2.9, 95% BCI = 1.2; 6.4). DISCUSSION Several factors were associated with prevalent epilepsy, with Ag-ELISA suggesting the presence of neurocysticercosis. The association between epilepsy and some occupations may reflect differences in local attitudes toward epilepsy and should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Nitiéma
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology; University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Oklahoma City; OK; USA
| | - H. Carabin
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology; University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Oklahoma City; OK; USA
| | - S. Hounton
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Branch Technical Division; UNFPA; New York; NY; USA
| | - N. Praet
- Department of Animal Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine; Nationalestraat; 155, B-2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - L. D. Cowan
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology; University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center; Oklahoma City; OK; USA
| | - R. Ganaba
- Agence de Formation, de Recherche et d' Expertise en Santé pour l'Afrique (AFRICSanté); Bobo Dioulasso; Burkina Faso
| | | | - Z. Tarnagda
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé; Bobo-Dioulasso; Burkina Faso
| | - P. Dorny
- Department of Animal Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine; Nationalestraat; 155, B-2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - A. Millogo
- Department of Internal Medecine; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sourou Sanou de Bobo-Dioulasso; Burkina Faso
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Winkler AS. Neurocysticercosis in sub-Saharan Africa: a review of prevalence, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management. Pathog Glob Health 2012; 106:261-74. [PMID: 23265550 PMCID: PMC4005109 DOI: 10.1179/2047773212y.0000000047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis has been recognized as a major cause of secondary epilepsy worldwide. So far, most of the knowledge about the disease comes from Latin America and the Indian subcontinent. Unfortunately, in sub-Saharan Africa the condition was neglected for a long time, mainly owing to the lack of appropriate diagnostic tools. This review therefore focuses on the prevalence of neurocysticercosis in sub-Saharan Africa, the clinical picture with emphasis on epilepsy, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of neurocysticercosis and its related epilepsy/epileptic seizures in African resource-poor settings.
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Abstract
Although humans can be definitive hosts for cestodes (tapeworms), major pathologic conditions occur during cestode larval stages when humans serve as the intermediate host for these parasites. The most relevant forms of human disease caused by cestode larvae are echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus (cystic echinococcosis) and Echinococcus multilocularis (alveolar echinococcosis), and cysticercosis, caused by Taenia solium. These infections occur worldwide, but their relevance is particularly high in developing countries, where poor hygiene conditions facilitate the transmission of the parasites. The therapeutic approach is often complex, requiring surgery and/or chemotherapy or, in the case of cystic echinococcosis, percutaneous treatments.
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Coyle CM, Mahanty S, Zunt JR, Wallin MT, Cantey PT, White AC, O'Neal SE, Serpa JA, Southern PM, Wilkins P, McCarthy AE, Higgs ES, Nash TE. Neurocysticercosis: neglected but not forgotten. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1500. [PMID: 22666505 PMCID: PMC3362619 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christina M. Coyle
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (CC); (TEN)
| | - Siddhartha Mahanty
- Helminth Immunology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Joseph R. Zunt
- Departments of Neurology and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Mitchell T. Wallin
- Department of Neurology, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Paul T. Cantey
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - A. Clinton White
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of Texas, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Seth E. O'Neal
- Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Jose A. Serpa
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Paul M. Southern
- Pathology and Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, United States of America
| | - Patricia Wilkins
- Parasitic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Anne E. McCarthy
- Department of Medicine, Ottawa General Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth S. Higgs
- Collaborative Clinical Research Branch, Division of Clinical Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Theodore E. Nash
- Gastrointestinal Parasites Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail: (CC); (TEN)
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Risk factors of porcine cysticercosis in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37718. [PMID: 22655065 PMCID: PMC3359999 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a high prevalence of Taenia solium taeniosis/cysticercosis in humans and pigs in the Eastern Cape Province (ECP) of South Africa. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors of porcine cysticercosis in select districts of the ECP. Data were collected in 2003 by interviewing 217 pig producers from the area. Blood samples were collected from 261 of their pigs, which were tested using two enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for the presence of antibodies to cysticercosis. Frequencies of both owner- and pig-level characteristics were determined. For pig-level analysis, all bivariable and multivariable associations were determined using the surveylogistic procedure of the SAS/STAT® software to accommodate for the intraclass correlation that exists for clusters of pigs within one owner and for clusters of owners within a district. All tests for significance were performed at the α = 0.05 level, and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined. Among the respondents, 48% of their households lacked a latrine, 98% slaughtered pigs at home, and 99% indicated that meat inspection services were not available. On bivariable analysis, there was a significant association between porcine infection and district (p = 0.003), breed (p = 0.041) and the absence of a latrine (p = 0.006). On multivariable analysis, the absence of a latrine was the only variable significantly associated with porcine infection (aOR = 1.89; 95% CI = 1.07, 3.35) (p = 0.028). The increased odds of porcine infection with households lacking a latrine contributes to our understanding of the transmission of this parasite in the ECP. Determining and addressing the risk factors for T. solium infection can potentially lower the very high prevalence in humans and pigs in this endemic area.
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Ndimubanzi PC, Carabin H, Budke CM, Nguyen H, Qian YJ, Rainwater E, Dickey M, Reynolds S, Stoner JA. A systematic review of the frequency of neurocyticercosis with a focus on people with epilepsy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2010; 4:e870. [PMID: 21072231 PMCID: PMC2970544 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 284] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2010] [Accepted: 10/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review of studies reporting the frequency of neurocysticercosis (NCC) worldwide. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS PubMed, Commonwealth Agricultural Bureau (CAB) abstracts and 23 international databases were systematically searched for articles published from January 1, 1990 to June 1, 2008. Articles were evaluated for inclusion by at least two researchers focusing on study design and methods. Data were extracted independently using standardized forms. A random-effects binomial model was used to estimate the proportion of NCC among people with epilepsy (PWE). Overall, 565 articles were retrieved and 290 (51%) selected for further analysis. After a second analytic phase, only 4.5% of articles, all of which used neuroimaging for the diagnosis of NCC, were reviewed. Only two studies, both from the US, estimated an incidence rate of NCC using hospital discharge data. The prevalence of NCC in a random sample of village residents was reported from one study where 9.1% of the population harboured brain lesions of NCC. The proportion of NCC among different study populations varied widely. However, the proportion of NCC in PWE was a lot more consistent. The pooled estimate for this population was 29.0% (95%CI: 22.9%-35.5%). These results were not sensitive to the inclusion or exclusion of any particular study. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE Only one study has estimated the prevalence of NCC in a random sample of all residents. Hence, the prevalence of NCC worldwide remains unknown. However, the pooled estimate for the proportion of NCC among PWE was very robust and could be used, in conjunction with estimates of the prevalence and incidence of epilepsy, to estimate this component of the burden of NCC in endemic areas. The previously recommended guidelines for the diagnostic process and for declaring NCC an international reportable disease would improve the knowledge on the global frequency of NCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick C. Ndimubanzi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Hélène Carabin
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Christine M. Budke
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Hai Nguyen
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Ying-Jun Qian
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shangai, People's Republic of China
| | - Elizabeth Rainwater
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Mary Dickey
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Stephanie Reynolds
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Stoner
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
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Taenia saginata metacestode antigenic fractions without affinity to concanavalin A are an important source of specific antigens for the diagnosis of human neurocysticercosis. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2010; 17:638-44. [PMID: 20130125 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00516-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Taenia saginata metacestode antigens have been constituted a useful alternative antigen for neurocysticercosis (NC) serodiagnosis, particularly due to an increasing difficulty to obtain Taenia solium homologous antigen. Cross-reactivity with Echinococcus granulosus infection occurs in homologous and heterologous antigens and could be avoided by using different purified methods. The present study evaluated antigen fractions obtained from saline extracts of T. saginata metacestodes purified by affinity chromatography with jacalin or concanavalin A (ConA) lectins to detect IgG antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblot analysis to diagnose human NC. Serum samples were collected from 142 individuals: 40 of them were diagnosed with NC, 62 presented Taenia sp. and other parasites, and 40 were apparently healthy individuals. The jacalin- and ConA-unbound fractions demonstrated sensitivity and specificity higher than those of bound fractions. Among unbound fractions, ConA demonstrated statistically higher sensitivity and specificity by ELISA (90% and 93.1%, respectively). By immunoblot assay, the 64- to 68-kDa component from the ConA-unbound fraction showed 100% sensitivity and specificity, making this component suitable for use as a specific antigen for diagnosis of NC. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the relevance of using the unbound ConA fraction of T. saginata metacestodes to diagnose NC. In conclusion, the results obtained herein clearly demonstrate that antigenic fractions without affinity to ConA, obtained from T. saginata metacestodes, are an important source of specific peptides and are efficient in the diagnosis of NC when tested by immunoblot assay.
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