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Intestinal spirochaetes in a Gulf Arab population
1Microbiology Department, Southend Hospital, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex.
Epidemiology and Infection
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Spirochaetal bacteria were found in Omani individuals, particularly those over two years old attending self-referral facilities. This study investigated spirochaete prevalence in Oman, finding no link to intestinal illness.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oman Health Studies
Background:
- Spirochaetal bacteria are a diverse group of microorganisms.
- Previous research on spirochaete prevalence in Oman is limited.
- Understanding the epidemiology of spirochaetes is important for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of spirochaetal bacteria in hospital patients and healthy individuals in Oman.
- To identify risk factors associated with spirochaete isolation.
- To investigate the relationship between spirochaete isolation and intestinal disease.
Main Methods:
- Faecal samples were collected from 1000 hospital patients and 292 healthy local nationals in Muscat.
- Spirochaetal bacteria were isolated using standard microbiological techniques.
- A case-control study analyzed patient records to identify associated factors.
Main Results:
- Spirochaetes were isolated from 11.4% of patients and 26.7% of healthy individuals.
- Isolation was significantly associated with Omani nationality, age over 2 years, and attendance at self-referral health-care facilities.
- No association was found between spirochaete isolation and symptomatic intestinal disease or abnormal stool microscopy.
Conclusions:
- Spirochaetal bacteria are present in the Omani population.
- Specific demographic and healthcare-seeking behaviors are linked to spirochaete carriage.
- Further research is needed to understand the clinical significance of these findings.