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[Serotonin metabolism in children infected with Giardia intestinalis]

A Lucińiska1, W Prusek, E Galary

  • 1Katedra i Zakład Biologii i Parazytologii Lekarskiej AM, Wrocław.

Wiadomosci Parazytologiczne
|August 5, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Giardiasis in children significantly elevates blood serotonin and monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity, potentially linked to parasitic action on the gut. This may explain gastrointestinal issues and anemia observed in infected children.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Parasitology
  • Biochemistry
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Giardiasis, caused by Giardia intestinalis, accounts for 3.8% of diagnosed parasitoses.
  • The study investigated the biochemical impact of Giardia infection in hospitalized children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess serotonin levels and monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity in children with giardiasis.
  • To explore the relationship between Giardia infection and host biochemical changes.

Main Methods:

  • Coproscopic and clinical diagnosis of Giardia intestinalis in 24 children (2-12 years old).
  • Measurement of blood serotonin and MAO activity before treatment, compared to a control group of 10 healthy children.
  • Children were divided into two age groups (2-5 and 6-12 years) for analysis.

Main Results:

  • Children with giardiasis showed significantly increased blood serotonin (210-221%) and MAO activity (32.4-45.1%) compared to controls.
  • Higher serotonin and MAO levels were noted in older children (6-12 years) who exhibited more severe symptoms like gastrointestinal issues, anemia, and microelement deficiency.
  • The highest levels were observed in a child with bile duct irritation.

Conclusions:

  • Giardia infection leads to marked increases in host serotonin and MAO activity.
  • Pathogenic action of Giardia on the jejunum and mastocyte degranulation are proposed mechanisms.
  • Elevated serotonin may contribute to symptoms like enhanced peristalsis and mucosal congestion.

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