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Published on: June 23, 2022
Epilepsy and toxocariasis: a case-control study in Italy
Alessandra Nicoletti1, Vito Sofia, Antonia Mantella
1Department of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy. anicolet@unict.it
Epilepsia
|November 23, 2007
Summary
Toxocariasis, an infection by Toxocara canis (T. canis) roundworms, is significantly associated with epilepsy in adults. This parasitic infection may increase the risk of developing epilepsy, particularly partial epilepsy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide.
- Toxocariasis is a human parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Toxocara canis.
- The potential link between parasitic infections and neurological conditions like epilepsy warrants further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between toxocariasis and epilepsy in adult subjects.
- To determine if seropositivity for Toxocara canis antibodies correlates with epilepsy diagnosis.
- To explore specific epilepsy types associated with toxocariasis.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted in Catania, Italy.
- Adults with epilepsy (PWE) and healthy controls were recruited.
- Serological testing using immunoblotting assay identified antibodies against T. canis.
Main Results:
- Antibodies against T. canis were found in 16.4% of PWE and 6.6% of controls.
- A significant association was observed between T. canis seropositivity and epilepsy (adjusted OR 3.90).
- The association was stronger for partial epilepsy (adjusted OR 4.69) than generalized seizures.
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between T. canis seropositivity and epilepsy.
- Toxocariasis may be a risk factor for developing epilepsy, especially partial epilepsy.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this association.
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