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The intestinal parasitic infections among children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Insights
Giardia lamblia is the most frequent intestinal parasite in children, affecting both healthy and symptomatic groups. Enterobius vermicularis was also common in patients with symptoms like abdominal pain.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Intestinal parasitic infections are a significant global health concern in children.
- Clinical manifestations can vary, making accurate diagnosis crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in a pediatric population.
- To identify the most common parasites and their association with clinical symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Stool examinations were performed on 5421 children (2726 healthy, 2695 symptomatic).
- Prevalence rates of identified parasites were calculated for both groups.
Main Results:
- Giardia lamblia was the most prevalent intestinal parasite in both healthy and symptomatic children.
- Enterobius vermicularis was the second most common in the symptomatic group.
- Abdominal pain and pruritus ani were primary referral reasons, often linked to G. lamblia.
Conclusions:
- Giardia lamblia is a widespread intestinal parasite in the pediatric population studied.
- Parasitic infections, particularly G. lamblia, are associated with common pediatric gastrointestinal complaints.
Abstract:
A total of 5421 children, 2726 apparently healthy and 2695 with clinical manifestations suggestive parasitic infection were subjected to stool examinations. Giardia lamblia was found to be the most common intestinal parasitic infection among both groups. Enterobius vermicularis followed among the patient group. Abdominal pain and pruritus ani were the most common causes of referral in the patient group. Other causes of referral were mainly associated with G. lamblia infection.