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Occurrence of microsporidia spp. infection in children with diarrhea in southern Iran
Manoochehr Shabani1, Kavous Solhjoo1,2, Ali Taghipour1
1Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran.
Abstract:
Microsporidia spp. are recognized emerging zoonotic microorganisms in immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations. Therefore, we conducted a study to investigate the occurrence, sociodemographic and risk factors of microsporidia spp. infection using microscopic and molecular techniques in children with diarrhea in Jahrom city (Fars province, southern Iran). Stool samples were gathered from 395 children aged ≤ 14 years between January 2017 and January 2018. Next, a questionnaire includes the age, sex, living area, immune system status, breast milk consumption, contact with animals, and type of water source was completed for all children. For microscopic assessment, modified acid-fast trichrome staining was applied for detection of microsporidia spores. Furthermore, DNA extraction and PCR were accomplished for all samples. A total of 15 (3.79%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.14-6.19) and 8 (2.02%; 95% CI 0.88-3.95) samples were positive for microsporidia infection by microscopic and molecular techniques, respectively. Although none of the sociodemographic and risk factors were significant (p value > 0.05), the prevalence of this infection was higher in some variables (e.g., rurality, contact with animals and well water consumption). Three random samples were sequenced that all isolates belonged to Enterocytozoon bieneusi. Cognizance of microsporidia occurrence, risk factors, and disease disorders for the health specialists, physicians, children's families are important for appropriately control the infection.
Insights
Microsporidia infections in children with diarrhea were studied in Iran. Enterocytozoon bieneusi was identified, highlighting the need for awareness among healthcare providers and families.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Microsporidia species are emerging zoonotic pathogens affecting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals.
- Diarrhea in children is a significant health concern, and identifying causative agents is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Microsporidia spp. infection in children with diarrhea in Jahrom city, Iran.
- To identify sociodemographic and risk factors associated with Microsporidia spp. infection.
- To characterize the Microsporidia species involved using microscopic and molecular methods.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 395 children aged ≤14 years with diarrhea in Jahrom city.
- Microscopic examination using modified acid-fast trichrome staining for Microsporidia spore detection.
- Molecular analysis including DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for Microsporidia identification.
- Sequencing of positive samples to determine the specific Microsporidia species.
Main Results:
- Microsporidia infection was detected in 3.79% of samples by microscopy and 2.02% by molecular methods.
- Enterocytozoon bieneusi was identified as the causative agent in all sequenced positive samples.
- While not statistically significant, higher prevalence was observed in children from rural areas, with animal contact, and consuming well water.
Conclusions:
- Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a cause of diarrhea in children in southern Iran.
- Increased awareness of Microsporidia occurrence and associated risk factors is essential for healthcare professionals, physicians, and families to implement appropriate control measures.
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