Parasitological evaluation of diarrhoeic stools from patients attending a tertiary care centre in western Uttar Pradesh
European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine,
2022, Volume 9, Issue 6, Pages 1475-1481
Abstract
Background: Intestinal parasitic infections are a major public health problem in developing countries like India. The prevalence and distribution of parasites vary from region to region within a country. Stool routine examination is a great tool in identifying various parasitic and nonparasitic causes in patients presenting with diarrhea to a health facility. Knowledge of the prevalence and distribution of different parasites causing infection in a particular region helps to devise appropriate prevention and control measures.Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyzediarrheic stools submitted to the parasitology lab by stool routine examination& to identify the prevalence and distribution of intestinal parasites causing infection in this particular region.
Material & Methods: A total of 545 stool samples received in the parasitology lab for stool routine examination were evaluated for gross and microscopic findings with an emphasis on the detection of intestinal parasites. Stool samples were evaluated with normal saline and iodine mounts.
Results: A total of 545 stool samples were examined out of which 40 were found to have intestinal parasitic infection with a prevalence rate of 7.6%. Parasitosis was seen more in males (8.2%) as compared to females (6.4%). Parasitosis was found to be mostly prevalent in the age group 11- 20 years followed by 31-40 years (9.5%). Cyst of Giardia lamblia (35%) was the most commonly detected protozoa followed by cyst & trophozoite of Entamoeba histolytica (22.5%).
Conclusion: Intestinal protozoal infections are more prevalent than helminthic infections. Improvement in drinking water quality and personal and food hygiene will help in reducing parasitic infections.
- Article View: 28
- PDF Download: 53