The prevalence of Giardia intestinalis and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar in Van Regional Training and Research Hospital: A four-year monitoring

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Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the frequency rates of Giardia and E.histolytica/ E.dispar and their distribution by years as well as age groups and gender distribution during a four-year period. Materials and methods: A total of 9911 stool samples sent to our laboratory between January 2008 and December 2011 were tested for parasites. Native-Lugol and for¬mol ethyl acetate sedimentation methods were utilized for microscopic identification of Entamoeba sp. and Giardia trophozoites and cysts in fresh stool samples. Additionally, trichrome staining was performed in stool samples where the distinctive diagnosis could not be confirmed. Results: From a total of 9911 stool samples analyzed during the study, 4.7% were positive for Giardia and 6.2% were positive for Entemoeba histolytica/ Entemoeba dispar. Of Giardia-positive patients 57% were male and 43% female. Similarly, 56% of Entemoeba histolytica/ Entemoeba dispar positive patients were male and 44% were female. Both parasites’ higher frequency rates seen in male groups were found statistically significant (p 0.01). Conclusion: It is seen that intestinal protozoon infections are still present as an important public health problem in our region. In order to prevent this problem, personal hygiene and sanitation rules education for community as well as infrastructure improvements are necessary.

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Giardia , Entemoeba histolytica , Entemoeba dispar , prevalence

Dicle Medical Journal

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Dicle Medical Journal