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Analysis of the Epithelial Damage Produced by Entamoeba histolytica Infection
11:49

Analysis of the Epithelial Damage Produced by Entamoeba histolytica Infection

Published on: June 12, 2014

[Intestinal infections caused by Dientamoeba fragilis and Giardia duodenalis in our experience]

Daniele Crotti1, Maria Letizia D'Annibale

  • 1Libero professionista in Parassitologia e Microbiologia Medica, Perugia. nenedc@tin.it

Recenti Progressi in Medicina
|June 22, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This study found Dientamoeba fragilis and Giardia duodenalis are common intestinal protozoa in adults and children. D. fragilis was particularly prevalent in adults with intestinal issues and prolonged diarrhea, highlighting its clinical significance.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Parasitology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology

Context:

  • Intestinal protozoa infections are a significant public health concern, particularly in pediatric and adult populations presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Prevalence and clinical significance of specific protozoa like Giardia duodenalis and Dientamoeba fragilis require ongoing investigation.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the prevalence of intestinal protozoa, specifically Giardia duodenalis and Dientamoeba fragilis, in a cohort of children and adults presenting with various gastrointestinal disorders.
  • To assess the association between these protozoa and specific clinical conditions such as aspecific intestinal troubles, acute diarrhea, and prolonged diarrhea.

Summary:

  • A study analyzed 1,989 stool specimens from individuals aged 1-14 years and adults between 2002-2003.
  • Giardia duodenalis was detected in 1.8% of cases (0.2% children, 3.2% adults), and Dientamoeba fragilis in 4.1% (0.6% children, 7.3% adults).
  • D. fragilis showed higher prevalence in adults with intestinal issues and prolonged diarrhea, while G. duodenalis was more frequent in adults with prolonged diarrhea.

Impact:

  • Highlights the clinical importance of Dientamoeba fragilis, often overlooked in routine diagnostics.
  • Emphasizes the diagnostic value of permanent staining techniques, such as Giemsa staining, for accurate identification of intestinal protozoa.
  • Provides epidemiological data on protozoan infections, aiding in understanding disease burden and guiding clinical management strategies.

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