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Multiplex Detection of Bacteria in Complex Clinical and Environmental Samples using Oligonucleotide-coupled Fluorescent Microspheres
Published on: October 23, 2011
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Enhancing enteric pathogen detection: implementation and impact of multiplex PCR for improved diagnosis and
Jad Mohtar1, Hiba Mallah1, Jean Marc Mardirossian1,2
1Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut, Lebanon.
BMC Infectious Diseases
|February 7, 2024
Summary
Syndromic surveillance for acute gastroenteritis in Lebanon revealed high pathogen detection rates, with bacteria like E. coli being most common. This highlights the need for comprehensive monitoring of enteric infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health Surveillance
Background:
- Acute gastroenteritis is a leading cause of mortality globally, particularly in developing nations.
- Lebanon lacks national surveillance for acute gastroenteritis, with limited data on diarrhea-causing pathogens.
- This study addresses the need for epidemiological data on gastrointestinal infections in Lebanon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiology of common gastrointestinal pathogens in Lebanon.
- To compare findings with existing data on diarrhea-causing agents.
- To establish baseline data for future public health interventions.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter, cross-sectional study conducted over one year.
- 271 samples collected from outpatients and inpatients with acute gastroenteritis symptoms.
- Analysis using the Allplex gastrointestinal assay for enteric pathogen detection.
Main Results:
- Enteropathogens detected in 71% of cases; 54% were mixed infections.
- Bacteria (48%) were most prevalent, followed by parasites (12%) and viruses (11%).
- Most frequent pathogens: E. coli strains (EAEC, ETEC, EPEC), Blastocystis hominis, and Rotavirus. High hospitalization rates linked to Rotavirus, ETEC, BH, and EPEC.
Conclusions:
- Multiplex real-time PCR assays enhance pathogen detection rates and identify surveillance gaps.
- Comprehensive surveillance is crucial for monitoring enteric infections.
- Syndromic testing panels offer timely data for effective treatment and public health strategies.
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