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Multiple Parasitic Infestation in a Nine-month-old Patient: A Case Report
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Desio Hospital, via Mazzini 1, Desio (MB), Italy.
Helminthologia
|October 31, 2019
Summary
A nine-month-old Pakistani infant with growth retardation was diagnosed with multiple intestinal parasitic infections, including Enterobius vermicularis and Entamoeba coli. Prompt treatment with mebendazole and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to a full recovery, underscoring the need for improved hygiene in vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Growth retardation in infants can be multifactorial, with parasitic infections being a significant concern in low socio-economic settings.
- Intestinal parasitic infections pose a substantial threat to child development and overall health, particularly in regions with poor sanitation.
Observation:
- A nine-month-old Pakistani female infant presented with growth retardation and was found to have concurrent infections with Enterobius vermicularis, Entamoeba coli, and hookworm.
- Microscopic examination of urinary and stool samples revealed parasitic ova and cysts, indicating fecal-oral contamination routes.
- The presence of mites in the urinary sample warrants further investigation into potential co-infestations or environmental exposures.
Findings:
- Microscopic analysis confirmed Enterobius vermicularis eggs, Entamoeba coli cysts, and hookworm eggs in stool samples.
- The infant received a combination therapy of mebendazole and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
- Post-treatment follow-up examinations at 15 and 30 days showed complete clearance of parasitic organisms.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical importance of considering polymicrobial parasitic infestations in children presenting with failure to thrive, especially in resource-limited environments.
- Effective treatment protocols can lead to successful outcomes, emphasizing the need for timely diagnosis and intervention.
- Improving sanitation and hygiene practices is paramount to preventing the high burden of parasitic infections in pediatric populations and mitigating long-term health consequences.
