Intestinal parasites in children hospitalized at the Central Hospital in Maputo, Mozambique

• Authors: Centeno-Lima S, Fernandes N, Ferreira FS, Fonseca AM, Gomes J
• Publication Year: 2014
• Journal: The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries
• Link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24916879

Methodology

This pilot study conducted between February and March 2009 enrolled a total of 93 children between 1.5 and 48.2 months of age; 87.1% were younger than 24 months. Parasite detection in stool samples was achieved using direct microscopic observation and Ritchie’s concentration technique.

Results

Infection with pathogenic intestinal parasites was detected in 16.1% (15/93) of the children. Giardia duodenalis and Trichuris trichiura were the most common parasites (6.5%, 6/93 each), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (2.2%, 2/93). One case of mixed infection with A. lumbricoides plus T. trichiura was also detected.

Conclusion

This study reinforces the importance of routinely examining stool samples for the diagnosis of intestinal parasites (including protozoa) in children hospitalized in endemic areas.