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Entamoeba coli es una ameba no patógena, parásito comensal del intestino grueso. Su diagnóstico sirve como indicador de contaminación fecal del ambiente. Durante el diagnóstico parasitológico es posible observar quistes inmaduros que pueden asemejarse a los quistes de E. histolytica (especie parásita patógena). Como se trata de especies de diferente patogenicidad, se debe tener en cuenta un conjunto de características morfológicas y técnicas a emplear para una correcta diferenciación., Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo

Introducción: La parasitosis intestinal constituye una de las infecciones más comunes a nivel mundial, de mayor prevalencia en países poco desarrollados. El objetivo es comparar la prevalencia de enteroparásitos en niños de Huaricana y Viacha de La Paz, Bolivia. Metodología: Se colectaron muestras de heces de niños de 4 -11 años de los colegios de Huaricana (H) y Viacha (V). Para determinar la presencia de enteroparásitos, se utilizó la técnica modificada de concentración de Willis y Ritchie. Resultados: La prevalencia de enteroparásitos fue de más del 80 % para H y 44 % para V. Las especies de helmintos que fueron encontrados son: Hymenolepis nana (H: 20 %, V: 0 %), Ascaris lumbricoides (H: 4 %, V: 4 %), Enterobius vermicularis (H: 5 %, V: 0 %), Taenia spp. (H: 4 %, V: 0 %), Diphylidium spp. (H:4 %, V:0 %), y entre los protozoos se encontraron Giardia lamblia (H:18 %, V:4 %), Blastocystis hominis (H:22 %, V:6 %), Entamoeba coli (H:51 %, V:28 %), Chilomastix mensnili (H:12 %, V:2 %), Endolimax nana (H:0 %, V:6 %) y Iodamoeba butschili (H: 14 %, V: 2 %). Los enteroparásitos patógenos predominantes en Huaricana fueron Hymenolepis nana 20 % y Giardia lamblia 18 %; y en Viacha 4 % se encontraron Ascaris lumbricoides y Giardia lamblia. Los niños de Huaricana estaban poliparasitados en 20 %, y biparasitados en 25 %, y los niños de Viacha estaban biparasitados en 19 %. Conclusión: Los niños con mayor prevalencia de enteroparásitos pertenecen a Huaricana. Las especies patógenas de enteroparásitos prevalentes en niños de Huaricana fue Hymenolepis nana, Giardia lamblia y de Viacha fue Ascaris lumbricoides y Giardia lamblia. Los niños de Huaricana estaban poliparasitados y los de Viacha estaban biparasitados. Conflicto de intereses Ninguno

Food handlers regardless of whether preparing or serving food, play key roles in the transmission of food‐borne infections. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in food handlers in Iran. In the present study, a comprehensive literature search was carried out in electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Magiran, Scientific Information Database (SID), Iran Medex and Iran Doc, to identify all the published studies from 2000 to 31st April 2019. A total of 25 articles from different regions of Iran were identified and fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Totally, 140,447 cases were examined and 1163 cases were infected with intestinal parasites. Of all cases, 19,516 were male and 5901 were female with 1163 and 652 infected cases, respectively. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was evaluated 14.0% [95% CI: 11.0‐17.0%]. It is revealed that protozoan, such as Giardia lamblia, with prevalence of 41.0% [95% CI: 25.0‐59.0%], Blastosystis hominis with 28.0% [95% CI: 15.0‐44.0%] and Entamoeba coli with 22.0% [95% CI: 16.0‐29.0%] had the highest prevalence while, Dientamoeba fragilis 5.0% [95% CI: 4.0‐7.0%], Iodamoeba bütschlii 5.0% [95% CI: 2.0‐8.0%], Chilomastix mesnili 5.0% [95% CI: 2.0‐9.0%] and Endolimax nana with 3.0% [95% CI: 1.0‐7.0%], were less prevalent. Infection with Ascaris lumbricoides7.0% [95% CI: 0.0‐29.0%] was more prevalent helminth followed with Enterobius vermicularis 3.0% [95% CI: 1.0‐5.0%], Hymenolepis nana 2.0% [95% CI: 1.0‐3.0%], Taenia spp. 2.0% [95% CI: 0.0‐7.0%] and Trichuris trichiura 1.0% [95% CI: 0.0‐1.0%]. The high prevalence of commensal parasites, such as Entamoeba coli, which does not need cure is indicating the importance of personal hygiene in food handlers. Our results revealed the high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in food handlers in Iran. Monitoring programs to prevent and controlling of transmission to individuals are needed., Food handlers regardless of whether preparing or serving food, play key roles in transmission of food‐borne infections. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in food handlers.

Fresh vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. Consumed raw, they could be agents of transmission of intestinal parasites. The frequency and variability of parasites eggs on thirty-two samples each of lettuce, tomato and cucumber form irrigated vegetable farms in Bamako, Kati, Baguineda, Samanko, Sikasso and Niono were evaluated. The parasite load was assessed using Uga et al. method, which consist the counting of parasite eggs and cysts in 100 g of vegetable. The overall prevalence of parasitic contamination of vegetables was 20.83% of which 41.66% for lettuce and 16.66% for tomato. Cucumber was free of parasites eggs. Parasites found on the vegetables were Entamoeba coli and Trichomonas intestinalis (24.19% each), Ascaris lumbricoides (13.25%), Giardia intestinalis (12.9%), Balantidium coli (11.29%), Entamoeba histolitica (7.26%), Fasciola hepatica (3.23%), Trichinella spiralis (1.61%), Ancylostoma duodenale and Schistosoma intercalatum (1.04% each). The frequency of parasites on lettuce was 83.33% each in Bamako and Niono; 50% in Kati; 16.66% each in Baguineda and Samanko and 0% in Sikasso. Consumption of vegetables contaminated by parasites can cause a health risk for consumers. Key words: Parasitic contamination, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, health risk.

Intestinal parasitic infections are among the most common public health problems in populations with poor hygiene. Consequently, mental retardation increases the risk of infection.The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among mentally disabled young people in Hamadan, western Islamic Republic of Iran.This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 318 students in 9 special schools in 2017. Triplicate faecal specimens for each student were subjected to stool analysis using direct wet mount, sedimentation concentration, and permanent staining technique. Chi-squared or Fisher's exact test were used for statistical analysis.Out of 318 students, 135 (42.5%, 95% CI: 37.1-47.9) were infected with intestinal parasites. Prevalence rates for females and males were 45.2% (61/135) and 40.4% (74/183) respectively. Protozoan infections (42.5%, 135) were more numerous than helminthiasis (0.6%, 2). Blastocystis hominis (28%, 89) was the most common parasite, followed by Giardia lamblia (9.7%, 31), Entamoeba coli (9.1%, 29) and Trichomonas hominis (6%, 19).The high prevalence rate of intestinal protozoan infection reflects poor personal hygiene among the students and inappropriate environmental conditions. Therefore, specific public health measures are required for the mentally handicapped students in special schools.العدوى الطفيلية المعوية في صفوف الطلاب المعوَّقين ذهنيًّا في جمهورية إيران الإسلامية.مريم خضري، مينا بيري ، محمد متيني.تُعد العدوى الطفيلية المعوية من أكثر مشاكل الصحة العامة شيوعًا في صفوف السكان الذين يعانون من قلة النظافة الشخصية. ومن ثَمَّ، فإن التخلف العقلي يزيد من خطر العدوى.هدفت هذه الدراسة إلى استقصاء معدل انتشار العدوى الطفيلية المعوية في صفوف الأطفال المعوَّقين ذهنيًّا في همدان، غرب جمهورية إيران الإسلامية.أُجريت هذه الدراسة المقطعية الوصفية على 318 طالبًا في 9 مدارس خاصة في عام 2017. وخضعت عينات البراز الثلاثية لكل طالب للتحليل بأسلوب إضافة السائل للشريحة مباشرةً لفحصها ميكروسكوبيًّا، وتركيز الترسيب، وتقنية التلوين الدائم. واستُخدم اختبار كاي تربيع أو اختبار فيشر الدقيق للتحليل الإحصائي.أُصيب 135 طالبًا من بين 318 طالبًا بالطفيليات المعوية (42.5٪، فاصل ثقة 95٪: 37.1–47.9). وكانت معدلات الانتشار في صفوف الإناث والذكور 45.2٪ (135/61) و40.4٪ (183/74) على التوالي. وكانت حالات العدوى بالطفيليات الأحادية الخلية (42.5٪، 135) أكثر عددًا من داء الديدان (0.6٪، 2). وكانت المتبرعمة الكيسية البشرية (28٪، 89) أكثر الطفيليات شيوعًا، تلتها الجياردية اللمبلية (9.7٪، 31)، والمتحولة القولونية (9.1٪، 29)، والمُشعَّرة البشرية (6٪، 19).يعكس ارتفاع معدل انتشار عدوى الطفيليات المعوية الأحادية الخلية قلة النظافة الشخصية في صفوف الطلاب والظروف البيئية غير الملائمة. ولذلك، يلزم اتخاذ تدابير محددة في مجال الصحة العامة للطلاب المعوَّقين ذهنيًّا في المدارس الخاصة.Infection parasitaire intestinale chez les élèves atteints d'un handicap mental, République islamique d'Iran.Les infections parasitaires intestinales comptent parmi les problèmes de santé publique les plus courants dans les populations dont l’hygiène est insuffisante. Par conséquent, le retard mental augmente le risque d'infection.La présente étude avait pour objectif d'étudier la prévalence des infections parasitaires intestinales chez les jeunes présentant un handicap mental à Hamadan, dans l'ouest de la République islamique d'Iran.Cette étude transversale descriptive a été menée auprès de 318 élèves de neuf écoles spéciales en 2017. Des échantillons de selles en triplicata pour chaque élève ont été soumis à analyse en utilisant la technique de montage humide direct, de concentration par sédimentation et de coloration permanente. Le test du khi carré et le test exact de Fisher ont été utilisés pour l'analyse statistique.Sur 318 élèves, 135 (42,5 %, IC 95 % : 37,1 à 47,9) étaient infectés par des parasites intestinaux. Les taux de prévalence chez les filles et les garçons étaient de 45,2 % (61/135) et 40,4 % (74/183) respectivement. Les infections à protozoaires (42,5 %, 135) ont été plus nombreuses que les helminthiases (0,6 %, 2). Blastocystis hominis (28 %, 89) était le parasite le plus fréquent, suivi par Giardia lamblia (9,7 %, 31), Entamoeba coli (9,1 %, 29) et Trichomonas hominis (6 %, 19).Le taux élevé de prévalence des infections intestinales à protozoaires reflète le manque d'hygiène personnelle des étudiants et des conditions environnementales inappropriées. Par conséquent, des mesures de santé publique spécifiques sont nécessaires pour les étudiants atteints d’un handicap mental dans les écoles spéciales.

In regions where sanitary conditions are poor, prophylactic administration of antiparasitic drugs is common and affects the prevalence of intestinal parasites, in spite of the environmental maintenance of their life cycle. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of parasitic infections, patient lifestyles, health conditions and environmental sources of contamination. One hundred seventy two children and adolescents, 5 to 15 years of age of both sexes were analyzed. Data were obtained through epidemiological questionnaires, parasitological examinations using Paratest®, IgG testing for Entamoeba histolytica, and analysis of sources of contamination in living areas. The study detected a prevalence of 45.9% (79/172) parasitic infections, of which 62.0% (49/79) Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar complex; 46.8% (37/79) Entamoeba coli; 27.8% (22/79) Giardia intestinalis; 12.7% (10/79) Endolimax nana; 10.1% (8/79) Hymenolepis nana; 8.9% (7/79) Ascaris lumbricoides and 2.5% (2/79) Trichuris trichiura. Out of the 49 samples positive for Entamoeba histolytica complex, there was only one case of antibodies to E. histolytica. The children’s life habits demonstrated inadequate food hygiene practices. These insufficient sanitary parameters revealed a general lack of information in face of an alarming situation regarding sewage and other sources of environmental contamination in 20% of the areas. The high prevalence of protozoan infections despite chemoprophylaxis, with environmental sources of contamination/risk, inadequate health conditions and the general apathy of the population suggest the ineffectiveness of current preventive practices. Thus, it is advisable that control actions include protozoa as therapeutic targets and, above all, health education as a routine practice to prevent the long-term continuance of this vicious cycle. KEY WORDS: Parasitic infections; chemoprophylaxis; environmental sources.

Background Intestinal protozoan infection is a public health problem in Indonesia, particularly in regions lacking clean water sources such as Perokonda and Perobatang villages, Southwest Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province. The residents of Perokonda and Perobatang villages use wells and unprotected open springs respectively. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections in these two villages. Materials and methods This was a cross-sectional study, carried out in Perokonda and Perobatang from August 2016 to August 2017. A total of 291 children aged 6 months to 18 years were used as subjects. Furthermore, fecal examinations were carried out by preparing smears, which were stained with lugol solution and examined under the microscopes by four experienced technicians. The data were processed using SPSS version 20 and analyzed by chi-square test. Results Among the 291 samples, the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections was 20%, with 23.4% in Perokonda and 17.2% in Perobatang. The predominant species found were Blastocystis hominis (34.5%), Giardia lamblia (19.0%), and Entamoeba coli (15.5%). Moreover, approximately 69.0% of single infections were found while 31.0% were mixed and associated with 2 to 3 protozoan species. There were no significant differences between the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections and the children in Perokonda and Perobatang villages (confidence interval 0.83 - 2.62, P = 0.19). Conclusion The type of water sources has no relationship with the species of intestinal protozoan infecting children in Perokonda and Perobatang.

Background Intestinal parasitic infections are amongst the most common infections worldwide and have been identified as one of the most significant causes of morbidity and mortality among disadvantaged populations. This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections and to identify the significant risk factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections in Laghouat province, Southern Algeria. Methods A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 623 symptomatic and 1654 asymptomatic subjects. Structured questionnaires were used to identify environmental, socio demographic and behavioral factors. Stool specimens were collected and examined using direct wet mount, formalin-ether concentration, xenic in vitro culture and staining methods. Results A highly significant difference of prevalence was found between symptomatic (82.3%) and asymptomatic subjects (14.9%), with the majority attributable to protozoan infection. The most common species in the symptomatic subjects were Blastocystis spp. (43.8%), E. histolytica/dispar (25.4%) and Giardia intestinalis (14.6%) and more rarely Enterobius vermicularis (02.1%), Teania spp. (0.6%) and Trichuris trichiura (0.2%), while in asymptomatic population Blastocystis spp. (8%), Entamoeba coli (3.3%) and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (2.5%) were the most common parasites detected with no case of helminth infection. Multivariate log-linear analysis showed that contact with animals was the main risk factor for transmission of these protozoa in both populations. Furthermore, living in rural areas was significantly associated with combined protozoan infection in the asymptomatic population, whereas, in the symptomatic population an increasing trend of protozoan infection was detected in the hot season. In addition, Blastocystis spp. and G. intestinalis infection were found to be associated with host sex and contact with animals across the study period. Conclusions Based on these results, several strategies are recommended in order to effectively reduce these infections including good animal husbandry practices, health education focused on good personal hygiene practices and adequate sanitation.

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) targets the body's defense system and leads to a decrease in CD4 T-cells in lymphoid tissues associated with intestinal mucosa, leading to an imbalance in the gastrointestinal tract. This study was performed to determine the intestinal parasites infestation among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in peri-urban area in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Methods: A retro-prospective, prospective, and descriptive study was carried out from January-March 2017 to the Care Unit of the Nkolondom II Catholic Medical Center in Yaoundé on 96 PLHIV after providing informed consent. On each stool sample collected, intestinal parasites testing was performed by using direct examination with physiological saline and Lugol's iodine, Ritchie's technique (formol/ether, 10%) and by Ziehl-Neelsen staining. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS version 17 software, with all P

Objective: Pathogenic species of protozoa and helminth cause intestinal parasitosis, which continues to be a significant community well-being issue in many regions of the world, especially in pastoral regions of developing countries like Nepal. The study focused on determining the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and the associated risk factors among the people of the Chepang community of the Saktikhor area in the Chitwan district. Materials and Methods: A transversal study was conducted between May 2017 and October 2017, with a total of 125 participants. The fecal samples were examined using a wet media (saline media, iodine preparation), concentration and sucrose flotation method. The association between risk factors and parasitic prevalence was evaluated using the Pearson’s chi-square test. Results: The general prevalence of intestinal parasite infection was 52%. Infections with soil-borne helminth were more common than those with cestodes and protozoa. Common intestinal parasites included Ascaris lumbricoides (69.23%), Trichuris trichiura (9.23%), Hookworm (7.69%), Strongyloides stercoralis (4.62%), Hymenolepis nana (6.15%), Taenia sp. (6.15%), and Entamoeba coli (9.23%). High prevalence of infection was observed among male (53.96% ) participants and those aged over 20 years (69.44%). Pearson's chi-square test revealed a substantial relationship between prevalence of parasite and age group (P=0.0452), hand washing material (P

Water-borne parasitic infections have become a source of concern in recent times due to the contamination of various water sources. A survey on the parasitic contamination of local drinking water sources in Aba metropolis was carried out between August and October 2018. This was done to evaluate the extent of contamination of these water sources and their public health implications. A total number of eighty (80) water samples were investigated from five (5) major water sources within the study area using the standard sedimentation method and examined for parasite cysts, eggs and larvae. Physical/macroscopic examination was done to determine the pH, colour, odour, temperature and presence/absence of particles. Among the water sources analyzed, stream water samples had the highest rate of parasite contamination 27 (44.3%) followed by river water 14 (22.9%) while the least contaminated was borehole 7 (11.5%). Rainwater was found free from parasitic infestation. The differences in the level of contamination among the water sources analyzed were found to be statistically significant (P

As hortalicas consumidas in natura tem especial importância para a saude publica e sao amplamente consumidas pela populacao. Ao serem consumidas cruas, as hortalicas, como a alface ( Lactuca sativa L.) tornam-se um importante veiculo de contaminacao de formas infectantes de enteroparasitos, como cistos de protozoarios, e ovos e larvas de helmintos. O presente estudo objetivou revisar a literatura quanto a ocorrencia de parasitos em alfaces crespas comercializadas no Brasil. Foi realizada uma pesquisa nas bases de dados PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) e Google Academico. Foram incluidos estudos publicados entre 2017 e 2020, sendo identificados 19 artigos elegiveis que abordavam a tematica proposta e atenderam aos criterios de inclusao. A maioria dos trabalhos foi conduzida na regiao Sudeste, sendo que em 89,5% (17/19) dos estudos verificou-se a presenca de parasitos. Dentre os mais prevalentes, citam-se Entamoeba coli, Giardia lamblia e Ascaris lumbricoides . Para a deteccao, o metodo de Hoffman, Pons & Janer (HPJ) foi o mais utilizado. A ocorrencia de estruturas parasitarias nas alfaces evidencia a importância de acoes do Sistema de Vigilância Sanitaria, bem como a necessidade de orientar os produtores quanto as condicoes de cultivo e correto manuseio dessas hortalicas, a fim de minimizar os riscos de contaminacao, visando melhorias nas condicoes de vida da populacao. Palavras-chave: Hortalicas. Parasitos. Brasil. ABSTRACT Vegetables consumed fresh are of particular importance for public health and are widely consumed by the population. When eaten raw, vegetables such as lettuce ( Lactuca sativa L.) become an important vehicle for the contamination of infectious forms of enteroparasites, such as protozoan cysts, and eggs and helminth larvae. The present study aimed to review the literature regarding the occurrence of parasites in lettuce marketed in Brazil. A search was carried out in the PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Google Scholar databases. Studies published between 2017 and 2020 were included, with the identification of 19 eligible articles that addressed the proposed theme and met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies were conducted in the Southeast region, with 89.5% (17/19) of studies showing the presence of parasites. Among the most prevalent parasites are Entamoeba coli, Giardia lamblia and Ascaris lumbricoides . For the detection, the method of Hoffman, Pons & Janer (HPJ) was the most used. The occurrence of parasitic structures in lettuce evidences the importance of actions of the Health Surveillance System, as well as the need to guide producers regarding their cultivation conditions and correct handling of vegetables, in order to minimize the risks of contamination, aiming at improving the population's living conditions. Keywords : Vegetables. Parasites. Brazil.

The consumption of fresh vegetables serves as source of important nutrients in the body; however, parasitic infection from the consumption of raw fruits and vegetables is on the increase. This study aimed at identifying the parasitic contamination of Vegetables sold at Masaka market New Karu, Nasarawa State. A total of 240 samples of vegetables were examined by sedimentation concentration after washing using normal saline. The overall prevalence of parasitic contamination was 52.5%. Fluted pumpkin (93.3%) was the most contaminated vegetable while cucumber and apple (16.7%) were the least contaminated vegetables (P>0.05). Strongyloides stercoralis(28.9%) was the most frequently detected parasite followed by Taenia spp (18.8%), Entamoeba coli (17.2%), Hookworm (13.3%), Entamoeba histolytica (8.6%), Ascaris lumbricoides (7.8%) and Toxocara spp (5.5%) was the least detected parasite. The parasitic contamination of different vegetables shows that Tomatoes and Lettuce had the highest poly-parasitic contamination of four species of parasites, whereas Apple and Cucumber had the least poly-parasitic contamination of one parasite. Strongyloides stercoralis had the highest infestation (37.5%) of the water samples used to refresh the vegetables. Vegetables that were washed before display for selling was significantly associated with reduced parasitic contamination (P>0.05). Vegetables are potential sources of transmission for intestinal parasites in the study area, hence, proper washing of fruits and cooking of vegetables is required to reduce parasitic infections. Keywords: Vegetables, Parasitic contamination, Masaka, Karu, Nasarawa

Modern research indicates a possible synergistic effect of bacterial-protozoal infestations in the pathology of the upper gastrointestinal tract, among which special attention is paid to the problem of giardiasis. Other parasitic agents, in particular Blastocystis spp, are also gaining some significance. The aim is to study the prevalence of H. pylori and protozoal infestations in chronic gastroduodenal diseases and the influence on the indicators of enzymatic digestion. Materials and methods. We examined 244 patients (130 adults and 114 children) with clinical manifestations with abdominal pain and dyspeptic syndromes. All patients were examined by immunochromatographic test for the qualitative detection of H. pylori in the feces, coprological and protozoological methods. Results. In the group of patients with chronic gastroduodenal diseases, the H. pylori antigen in the feces was detected in 116 (47.5%) patients. During protozoooscopic examination of feces, the detection rate of Lamblia intestinalis was 22.9%, in Blastocystis spp. - 13.1%, Entamoeba coli 10.2%, Entamoeba spp. 9.4%. Protozoan invasion was detected in the groups of H. pylori + and H. pylori - patients: infection of Lamblia intestinalis was diagnosed in 27.6% and 18.8% of cases respectively (p

Objective Immunocompromised patients are at a greater risk of developing intestinal parasite infections. In this study, we examined the presence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Encaphalitozoon intestinalis and other intestinal protozoa in stool samples of immunosuppressed patients. Methods A total of 100 stool samples were obtained from patients receiving chemotherapy because of solid organ tumour with haematological malignancies and those receiving immunosuppressive treatment because of rheumatic diseases, organ transplant patients and patients receiving treatment for HIV-related infections. Stool samples were examined by using the native-lugol method in which the stool concentration, modified Kinyoun acid-fast and trichrome staining methods and parasite presence were analysed. The stool samples were also examined for the presence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis using an indirect fluorescent antibody method. Results Intestinal parasites were detected in 12% of all patients. The distribution of intestinal parasites in patients were 7% Blastocystis spp., 2% Blastocystis spp. + Dientamoeba fragilis, 1% Blastocystis spp. + Entamoeba coli, 1% Blastocystis spp. + Giardia intestinalis and 1% G. intestinalis. Microsporidia spp. were detected in 4% of all patients by the IFAT method and in 8% of all patients by calcoflour staining method. Conclusion In our study, the most prevalent parasite detected in the immunosuppressed patients was Blastocystis spp. The pathogenesis of Blastocystis spp. remains to be controversial, and their role in immunocompromised patients continues to remain unknown. Although these rates detected in our study are similar to the prevalence in the normal population, it is important to study these microorganisms in immunocompromised patients in terms of the associated decreasing morbidity and mortality rates.

The study was carried out to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites among school children of Egor Local Government Area, Edo State. The correlation between their various activities like source of water, type of toilet, method of washing hands with the infection were examined. 250 stool samples of participants consisting of 111 males and 139 females were examined using the formol-ether concentration method. Questionnaires were administered to the children to collect information on Sociodemographic activities. The overall prevalence rate of the various parasitic infections was 16(6.4%), with 6(5.4%) prevalence rate of infection among males and 10(7.2%) among the females. From the study, the age group of 10-13 years old have high rate of infection 13(9.8%) followed by 6-9years old 3(4.4%).Sex did not (p0.05) but age affected it significantly The children with Ascaris lumbricoides recorded the highest prevalence rate of 6(2.4%), followed by Hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale) infection 3(1.2%); Enterobius vermicularis 2(0.8%); Entamoeba coli 2(0.8%); Schistosoma japonicum 1(0.4%); Strongyloides stercoralis 1(0.4%) and Round worm 1(0.4%). The results further support public education on good personal hygiene and the dangers of open defeacation in fields and water ways.

Digital, Background and Aim: Backyard pigs farming is a rearing system associated with poor hygienic and sanitary conditions of the pig, often causing public health and food safety problems. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of potentially zoonotic parasites in population pig reared under backyard farming in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area, Northeast Colombia. Materials and Methods: From September to December 2019, a total of 558 fecal samples from 64 backyard pig farms were examined for the presence of enteric protozoan infection. The coprological diagnosis was done by direct examination using Lugol's iodine solution, buffered saline solution, and Kinyoun technique. In addition, blood samples were collected from 200 pigs. Serum was collected and used for the detection of Trichinella spiralis and Taenia solium cysticercosis infections, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The overall prevalence of zoonotic protozoa in the Bucaramanga metropolitan area was 65.2%, reporting 52.7% prevalence for Balantidium coli, 33.7% for Entamoeba coli, and 5.7% for Cryptosporidium spp. Regarding the prevalence by municipalities, there was no statistical association (p>0.05), indicating that the prevalence was similar in the region under study. Pigs >7 months of age showed to be a risk factor for B. coli infection, indicating that the prevalence increases with the age, while pigs raised at >1000 masl and access to latrines, increased infection risk for E. coli and Cryptosporidium spp. infections. In the present study, T. spiralis infection was not detected in the analyzed sera, while T. solium cysticercosis infection was found to be 40.5%. Conclusion: The high prevalence of protozoan infections and porcine cysticercosis reported in this study could be due to poor facilities, and lack of hygiene in the facilities, and suggests the possible transmission of these parasite populations between pigs and humans, thus increasing the transmission of parasites zoonotic potential. Therefore, appropriate sanitary management practices and deworming programs should be adopted to reduce the prevalence of these infectious agents., Medicina Veterinaria

O caráter endêmico em algumas regiões do Brasil para doenças causadas por enteroparasitos ainda é bastante evidenciado e poucas ações têm sido apresentadas pelos órgãos governamentais para mudar esse quadro. Considerando que a população infantil é a mais acometida por doenças parasitológicas, o presente estudo analisou amostras de fezes de estudantes de uma escola pública do município de São Mateus, Espírito Santo, Brasil e desenvolveu atividades educativas e de conscientização junto à população em estudo. A pesquisa foi de natureza descritiva, privilegiando uma abordagem interpretativa. Amostras de fezes dos participantes foram coletadas no período de abril a junho de 2019, após assinatura de um termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido pelos pais ou responsáveis. O material foi encaminhando ao Laboratório de Parasitologia e Hematologia Clínica do Centro Universitário Norte do Espírito Santo, da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo e analisado pelo método de sedimentação espontânea. De um total de 52 frascos coletores distribuídos na escola, entre os indivíduos que concordaram em participar da pesquisa, 22 amostras (42,31%) foram recolhidas. Destas, 8 (36,36 %) estavam positivas para cisto de protozoários e ovos de helmintos. O comensal Entamoeba coli (12,5%) e os parasitos Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (62,5%) e Trichuris trichiura (25%) foram os mais prevalentes. Os resultados permitem compreender a relevância necessidade da aplicação de medidas de educação sanitária e de investimentos no serviço público, a fim de minimizar os processos de transmissão parasitária, principalmente em regiões que apresentam precariedades sociais.

The current study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites from various species of mammals and birds housed in a zoological garden in Beni-Suef province, Egypt. A total of 77 fecal samples were collected from various primates (16), carnivores (7) and herbivores (54). Meanwhile, 123 fecal samples were collected from two Ostrichs (Struthio camelus), five Numida meleagris (Numida meleagris), twoIndian Peafowls (Pavo cristatus), two Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) 101 Pigeons (Columba livia domestica) and 11 Swan Goose (Anser sygnoides). In addition, seven stool samples from zookeepers who had been in close contact with animals and birds were examined. Salt flotation and formol ether sedimentation techniques were applied for parasitological examination. Positive samples of Giardia cysts were preserved in alcohol and kept at 4 °C until DNA extraction. Parasitological findings revealed that 48.05% of zoo animals were infected with intestinal parasites; 11.69% were positive with helminths and 27.27% with protozoa, however 9.09% had mixed infection. It was found that 75%, 57.14% and 38.89% of primates, carnivores and herbivores respectively were infected with intestinal parasites. In Primates the most prevalent parasites were Giardia spp. (43.75%) then Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (12.5%), Entamoeba coli (12.5%) and Trichuris spp. (6.25%). For carnivores, Ancylostomatidae had the highest prevalence (42.86%) followed by Spirometra spp. (14.29%). Meanwhile, Eimeria spp. (20.37%) was the most prevalent parasite in herbivores, followed by Blantidium coli (7.41%) and Tricuris spp. (7.41%), then Toxocara spp. (3.70%). Furthermore, the prevalence of infection in zoo birds was 21.95%. The identified parasites were Eimeria spp., Giardia spp., Capillaria spp., Ascaridia spp., Isospora spp. and Sublura brumpti. Stool examination of zookeepers revealed the presence of G. doudenalis and E. histolytica/ dispar cysts. The gdh gene of G. duodenalis was successfully amplified from fecal samples of zoo mammalsand zookeepers. In conclusion, the application of preventive and control measures against the propagation of infectious intestinal parasites is essential to prevent the spread of these parasites among zoo animals or to humans.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to of investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites among school children in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Methodology: Random sampling was adopted in selecting a sample of five schools with a population of 235 pupils was used for the study. The instrument for the study was the questionnaire used to elicit in information on the risk factors. Also 50 pupils were randomly selected, 10 each from the five selected schools for the stool investigations. The saline/iodine wet mouth procedure was used in the analysis of the stool samples. Findings: Results showed that poor sanitary conditions, inadequate potable water supply, lack of personal hygiene education and lack of de-worming of children enhanced the spread of intestinal parasitic infection. An overall prevalence of 66% was recorded. A total of 6 species of intestinal parasites were recorded in this study. This includes Hookworm, Entamoeba histolytica, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis, Schistosoma mansoni, and Entamoeba coli respective prevalence rates of 33.3%, 24.2%, 18.2%, 12.1%, 9.1% and 3.0%. The highest prevalence of 27.3% was recorded in Kutaho, followed by Kushe and Jere with 21.2% each while the least prevalence of 12.1% as recorded in Kagarko. The 11-13 years age group had the highest prevalence of (45.5%), followed by the 8-10 years age group (36.4%), and then the 14 years and above with the least (6.1%). Sex-specific prevalence was higher in males (57.6%) than females (42.4%). Recommendations: The results suggests that Children should be taught on regular personal hygiene. There is also need for Public Health Education on personal hygiene practices in the communities, large scale de-worming campaigns in all primary schools in the area and the host communities.

Introduction: Gp63 is the major surface glycoprotein of Leishmania which is prevalent in the promastigote stage of Phlebotomus sergenti. Glycoprotein 63 (gp63) or leishmanolysin is a zinc-dependent metalloprotease found on the surface of Leishmania. It was initially discovered in 1980and described biochemically and genetically as a surface antigen expressed in promastigotes of Leishmania species, having a range of substrates including casein, albumin, fibrinogen, haemoglobin, and gelatin. On the surface of amastigote, GP63 is present at a very low level. Glycoprotein 63 is a zinc-dependent metalloprotease that is active in the pH range of 7–10, which is neutral to alkaline. Materials and Methods: During the study, which was carried out in Al-Muthanna province from July 2017 to August 2018, about 2550 sand fly samples including 719 males and 1633 females were collected. Three species of sand flies were recorded according to morphological features which included Phlebotomus papatasi, Phlebotomus sergenti, and Sergentomyia sintoni. The caught specimens showed that P. papatasi was the most prevalent species. Two primers were used for the diagnosis of Leishmania spp. using a nested PCR technique, which was designed in a previous study for 1250 samples of sand flies from 25 locations in the study area. Results: Results showed that 13 samples were positive, containing DNA for the Leishmania parasite, and 12 samples were negative. Positive samples include 11 samples of L. major species and only 2 samples of L. tropica species. Additionally, the results showed that the L. major species was the dominant species in the study area. Positive samples (13) of sand flies had Leishmania parasite based on molecular diagnosis and virulence factor gene (Gp63) of Leishmania parasite was detected in sand flies using PCR method The results showed that virulence factor gene (Gp63) was detected on the surface of promastigote. This refers to the presence of Leishmania parasite in sand fly. The study is the first one which detected the presence of the virulence factors gene (GP63) of Leishmania in the body of sand flies. Conclusion: This study revealed the possibility of diagnosing leishmaniasis by virulence factor gene (Gp63) in leishmania promastigotes.

La presencia de parásitos en arenas de las plazas y parques pueden poner en riesgo la salud de los niños y de las personas que acuden a ellas. El objetivo del estudio fue la descripción de los tipos de parásitos encontrados en las arenas de los parques públicos de Ciudad del Este. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, en 15 parques de Ciudad del Este, durante los meses de octubre del 2019 a febrero del 2020. Se recolectaron 71 muestras, bajo las condiciones existentes en el sitio, en una porción de suelo de 10 cm de largo, 10 cm de ancho y 3 cm de profundidad, se tomó aproximadamente 200 g de arena con una pala de jardín, utilizando guantes y colocándolo en una bolsa de plástico estéril y herméticamente cerrado. Para la búsqueda e identificación de los parásitos, se utilizó la técnica de flotación de Willis y centrifugación de Ritchie. De los 15 parques el 53.3%(n=8) presentaron, una muestra de arena contaminada con parásitos. De las n=71 muestras obtenidas en los 15 parques el 15.5 % (n=11) presentó huevos de helmintos, Toxocara sp 11,3% (n=8) y el cestodo Dipylidium caninum 1.4 % (n=1). Se encontraron además formas vacuoladas del protozoo Blastocystis hominis que corresponde al 1,4% (n=1) y quistes de Entamoeba coli 1.4% (n=1). La mayoría de los parásitos encontrados pertenecen a la familia de los helmintos, que podrían causar infecciones y complicaciones como granulomas y ceguera. Se debe concientizar a las personas sobre el lavado de manos, principalmente de niños y limitar la presencia de los animales en los parques.

A adubação de hortaliças por meio de biofertilizantes é utilizada principalmente pela agricultura orgânica. No entanto, são escassos os trabalhos publicados avaliando a microbiota potencialmente patogênica a humanos nos biofertilizantes, assim como sua formulação conforme as necessidades nutricionais da cultura. Desse modo, o objetivo com este estudo foi formular dois biofertilizantes otimizados, avaliar suas características sanitárias (microbiológicas e parasitológicas) e eficiência agronômica no cultivo orgânico da alface crespa. O experimento foi conduzido em condições de campo em Lagoa Seca, Paraíba. O arranjo experimental foi em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial (2 x 6), com 3 repetições, sendo dois biofertilizantes otimizados (BIO I e BIO II) e seis concentrações (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 e 100 mL). A alface crespa foi adubada com os dois biofertilizantes, formulados com materiais orgânicos, e submetidos à fermentação aeróbica por 96 dias. O BIO II não teve contaminação com micro-organismos patogênicos ao homem, enquanto o BIO I apresentou contaminação com coliformes totais e fecais, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancilostomideo spp., Entamoeba histolystica e Entamoeba coli. A aplicação do BIO I e BIO II promoveu aumento no rendimento da produção total, produção comercial, número de folhas, massa seca do caule e raiz. No entanto, a massa seca das folhas não diferiu do tratamento controle, independente do biofertilizante. Maiores estudos devem ser realizados para investigar o efeito residual dos biofertilizantes e, outros métodos de aplicação como pulverização foliar para o BIO II.

This study aimed to analyze the parasites infesting pigs and their producers on family farms in Tangua, RJ, Brazil, and to conduct extension activities between 2018 and 2019. Fecal samples were collected from 132 pigs, as well as, skin scrapings from the ears of 125 animals. In addition, 36 stool specimens from farmers and their families were analyzed. The collected material was processed by direct examination, sedimentation and flotation techniques. Gastrointestinal parasites were detected in 88.6% of the pigs, especially coccidia (71.8%), Balantioides coli (55%), strongyles (40.2%) and Strongyloides ransomi (31.6%) which showed statistically significance (p

Background Giardia duodenalis is conventionally diagnosed in fecal samples using parasitological methods. However, sensitivity is poor when only a single sample is analyzed, due to intermittent excretion of cysts in feces. Alternatively, the serum antibodies to G. duodenalis can be used for parasite diagnosis and epidemiological studies to determine previous exposure. We compared the rate of G. duodenalis infection between serum anti-Giardia IgG and IgA antibodies and fecal examination in Brazilian children. Methods Fecal and serum samples were tested from 287 children at a clinical laboratory and from 187 children at daycare centers. Fecal samples were processed using conventional parasitological methods and coproantigen detection for Giardia diagnosis. Serum samples were tested using an in-house ELISA for detection of anti-Giardia IgG and IgA. Results G. duodenalis was found in 8.2% (N=39) of the 474 children analyzed. The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA were 80.0% and 90.0% for IgG and 80.0% and 83.3% for IgA, respectively. The total positivity rate of anti-Giardia IgG and IgA in the sera was 13.9% (N=66) and 23.6% (N=112). The agreement between the positivity of specific antibodies and the detection of G. duodenalis in feces was moderate for ELISA-IgG, kappa index (95% CI)=0.543 (0.422-0.664), and mild for ELISA-IgA, kappa index (95% CI)=0.283 (0.162-0.404). Among the children infected with other enteroparasites, 11.6% (N=10) and 24.4% (N=21) showed reactivity to anti-Giardia IgG and to IgA, respectively. This cross-reactivity was more frequent in samples from children infected with Endolimax nana and Entamoeba coli. Conclusions The higher frequency of specific antibody reactivity compared with G. duodenalis diagnosis in feces could reflect continuous exposure of children to G. duodenalis infection, resulting in long-lasting immunological memory and/or cross-reactivity with other intestinal amoebas.

Recent studies have shown how intestinal parasites can modulate gut microbiota. This observation is not surprising since the human intestinal lumen, like any other niche, is a battlefield of microbial competition, and Eukaryotes can affect bacterial populations. Intestinal pathogenic protist has been associated with reshaping the microbial community structure; however, the interactions between the colonic bacterial communities and parasites like Blastocystis spp., Entamoeba coli, and Endolimax nana have been poorly studied. In this work, we studied the distal intestinal bacterial microbiota of 49 children attending 7 public daycare centers in Medellin, Colombia, and compared the bacterial microbiota structure in the presence or absence of the protists Blastocystis spp., E. coli, and E. nana. Parasite colonization was associated with an increase in bacterial richness. Moreover, Blastocystis spp. presented a positive relationship with Prevotella, since this bacterium was selectively enriched in children carrying it. Remarkably, the E. coli colonized children showed a microbial profile that was closer to uninfected controls, although some bacterial taxa displayed to be enriched. This is the case for Akkermansia, which showed to be favored in E. coli colonized individuals, while notably reduced in the Blastocystis spp. parasitized group.

Foodborne diseases continue to represent an important threat to public health in many parts of the world and are particularly widespread in developing countries. They are essentially acquired through an oro-fecal route via the consumption of uncooked fruits and vegetables. This study evaluated the parasitological contamination of vegetables for sale to humans in Tunisian retail markets. A total of 240 samples of fresh vegetables were examined for helminth eggs and protozoan cysts and oocysts (collectively, (oo)cysts) contamination. The parasitic elements (helminth eggs and protozoan (oo)cysts) were concentrated by sucrose flotation and identified by microscopic examination. The molecular identification of Echinococcus granulosus eggs was carried out using PCR. Helminth eggs and protozoan (oo)cysts eggs were found in 12.5% of the unwashed vegetables, and the most common parasites observed in vegetables were coccidian oocysts (4.1%), Toxocara spp. (2.5%), hookworm (2.1%), and Taenia spp. (1.25%) eggs, followed by Pseudolimax butschlii (1.6%) and Entamoeba coli (1.6%) protozoan cysts. Furthermore, parasite contamination differed significantly from one city to another. Taeniid eggs were identified by PCR as E. granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) (genotype G1). To our knowledge, this study highlights for the first time in Tunisia that fresh vegetables for sale in markets are contaminated with helminths and protozoan cysts, which are potentially pathogenic for humans. The control of these pathogens is in part a question of sanitary education, especially for retail vendors, and in part of improvement in hygiene measures throughout the food production chain, from the field to the consumer. HIGHLIGHTS

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites from volunteered individuals in the study site. A total of 300 stool samples, comprising 150 females and 150 males were collected randomly from the study population in Ovia North-East Local Government Area in Edo State, aged between 1 and 60 years. The stool samples were aseptically collected and examined using both direct smear method and formol ether sedimentation techniques to determine the individual parasite load of the sampled population. The age group of 16-20 had the highest number of participants 102(34%) while the age group of 6-10, 51-55 and 56-60 had the least number of participants of 3(1%) respectively. Out of the 300 stool samples examined 87, (29%) were positive with intestinal parasites while 213(71%) were negative, not having any intestinal parasitic infection However the age group of 11-15(N=10) and 31-35(N=10) had the highest prevalence rate of 11.5%, while the lowest prevalence (1%) was found in individuals of ages 41-60 years. There was no intestinal parasites found among the individuals below11 years of age.. Of the 150 male candidates examined, 57 (65.5%) were infected with intestinal parasites. On the other hand, their female counterparts had a total prevalence of 34.5%. A total number of six parasitic species were isolated from the fecal specimens. These were Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Strongyloides stercolaris, Entamoeba coli, Hookworms and Entamoeba histolytica. Ascaris lumbricoides had the highest prevalence rate (12%), while Trichuris trichiura and Strongyloides stercolaris had the least prevalence rate (1%) respectively. The intestinal parasite infection and age were negatively correlated and there was a significant difference between the male and female infection rates (p

Correctional inmates are among the vulnerable groups to intestinal parasitic infections due to deprived situations characterized by inadequate facilities, malnutrition, scarce potable water, over-crowding, and poor hygiene. Two hundred and fifty faeces of inmates of Jos Correctional Facility were investigated for the prevalence of intestinal parasites between May and June 2019, using the wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Results obtained showed that from the 250 faecal samples examined, 57(22.8%) were infected with various intestinal parasites. Nine (9) different intestinal parasites identified were Entamoeba histolytica 38.60%), Entamoeba coli (15.78%), Ancylostoma duodenale (4.04%), Ascaris lumbricoides (0.53%), Taeniasp (8.77%), Schistosoma mansoni (3.51%), Giardia lamblia (3.51%), Enterobius vermicularis (3.51%) and Trichuris trichuria (1.75%). The 9 different intestinal parasites were grouped into helminthes (42.1%) and protozoa (57.9%). Higher infection rate of 45.6% was recorded among those within age ranges 21-30 years. Inmates who were in prison for

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a ocorrência de enteroparasitos em escolares do 6º ao 9º ano de uma escola de rede pública de ensino do município de Bandeirantes, Paraná, e abordar ações educativas na prevenção dos parasitos intestinais. As amostras fecais foram processadas pelos métodos de sedimentação espontânea, centrífugo-flutuação em sulfato de zinco a 33% e Kato-Katz modificado. Para análise da associação dos resultados e os dados obtidos do questionário epidemiológico foram realizados os testes de qui-quadrado (?2), exato de Fisher e razão de chances (Odds Ratio-OR), com nível de significância de 5%. Das 112 amostras fecais analisadas, 9,8% (11/112) foram positivas para algum enteroparasito. Em 10 amostras foi constatado monoparasitismo para os seguintes parasitos: Giardia sp 36,3% (4/11); Entamoeba coli 27,3% (3/11); Iodamoeba butschlii 9,1% (1/11); Endolimax nana 9,1% (1/11) e Enterobius vermicularis 9,1% (1/11). O poliparasitismo foi observado em apenas uma amostra, com Endolimax nana e Iodamoeba butschlii. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas (p> 0,05) entre as variáveis associadas aos resultados das análises de fezes. As ações educativas abrangeram 88,9 % (273/307) dos escolares. Os parasitos E. coli, I. butschlii e E. nana, apesar de serem comensais ao trato intestinal humano, são indicadores de falha na higiene pessoal, já que o seu mecanismo de transmissão se dá pela via fecal-oral. Contudo, apesar da baixa frequência encontrada, pode se observar que há circulação por parasitos intestinais na população em estudo, fortalecendo a importância de ações educativas no papel da prevenção, que auxiliam na higienização pessoal e dos alimentos de forma adequada

In most developing countries, Dientamoeba fragilis infection is an obscure protozoan infection. We aimed to determine a frequency and clinical importance of D. fragilis infection in Taif, Saudi Arabia. A 1-year case control study included patients with gastrointestinal (cases, n=114) or non-gastrointestinal symptoms (controls, n=90). The fecal samples were examined with the classical parasitological methods for intestinal protozoa, and by real time PCR for D. fragilis. The infection by D. fragilis was detected in 5.8% by PCR and in 4.4% patients by microscopy. The infection was identified more in control group (n=9) than in cases (n=3); a sole infection in 11 patients and mixed with Giardia in 1 patient. The other enteric parasites detected were Blastocystis sp. (8.3%), Giardia sp. (5.3%), Cryptosporidium sp. (2.9%), Entamoeba histolytica (1.4%), Entamoeba coli (0.9%) and Hymenolepis nana (0.4%). Our results tend to reinforce the need to increase awareness of D. fragilis infection in Saudi Arabia.

The Brazilian “National School Lunch Program” (PNAE) must provide healthy food for students in public primary education. Thus, it is necessary to ensure both nutritional and parasitological quality, reducing health risks. Vegetables must be clean, presenting no parasites and larvae, according to Brazilian legislation. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is one of the favorite vegetables among students, and is eaten raw in salads. This paper aims to evaluate the parasitological quality of lettuce served in school lunches. 72 samples of leaf lettuce, 36 fromconventional agriculture (CA) and 36 from family agriculture (FA), were analyzed. Half the samples in each group were sanitized by immersion in a sodium hypochlorite solution, with 2% active stabilized chlorine for 10 minutes (n=18/each) and half were not sanitized (n=18/each). Parasite load evaluation was performed by two methods in each subgroup: spontaneous sedimentation (SS) and sedimentation by centrifugation (SC). The parasite frequencies found were evaluated by the chi-squared test. Medically relevant parasites identified were helminths (Strongyloides stercoralis, Ascaris lumbricoides and Hookworms) as well as protozoa (Balantidium coli and Entamoeba coli). 44.6% of the FA samples presented some form of parasite by SS evaluation and 33.4% by SC evaluation; 66.7% of the CA samples presented parasites by SS evaluation, and 44.5% by SC evaluation. No significant differences were noted between the FA and CA groups in either technique. No parasites were found in any of the sanitized lettuces, regardless of the subgroup or technique applied. These results evidence theimportance of adequate training and guidance for vegetable growers, food handlers as well as the general population regarding proper hygiene of lettuce leaves prior to consumption.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of gastrointestinal protozoan infection in patients with hematological malignancies (HMs) undergoing intensive hemato-oncological treatment and to determine the influence of certain biological factors on the incidence of intestinal parasite infection. Stool samples were collected from hematological malignancy patients (n = 50) hospitalized at the Department of Hematology and Transplantology of the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin. The control group consisted of 50 healthy participants. We used a direct smear examination and a commercial immunoenzymatic test. Intestinal protozoans were detected in 16% of patients with hematological malignancies and in 6% of individuals in the control group. In stool samples from patients with HM, cysts of Giardia intestinalis (2%), oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. (10%), vacuolar forms of potentially pathogenic Blastocystis spp. (2%), and cysts of nonpathogenic Entamoeba coli (2%) were found. Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia intestinalis coproantigens were detected in 5 (10%) and 1 (2%) patients with HM, respectively. In three participants from the control group, vacuolar forms of Blastocystis spp. were found. In the patients with HM, a significantly higher prevalence of intestinal parasite infection was found in individuals working in the garden without protective gloves and those in contact with animals. In patients with hematological malignancies, intestinal parasites should be excluded, even during intensive chemotherapy treatment.