The Research of Cryptosporidium spp. on Children in Central Anatolia, Turkey and Their Detection with Different Methods - Abstract
Background: Enteric protozoon infections in children are related to morbidity and mortality in the worldwide. Cryptosporidium spp. is a zoonotic infection, now being recognized as a significant cause of diarrhea in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts. Current modes of cryptosporidiosis diagnosis involve procedures which are costly and require both a well-equipped laboratory and technical expertise. Our aim was to evaluate the performances of the unidentified Cryptosporidium spp. presence during routine parasitological examinations and diagnostic methods.
Methods: 1050 stool samples were collected in children who visited the University hospital with abdominal pain and diarrhea complaints, and additionally selected from seven different regions in primary school students. All stool specimens were examined macroscopically and microscopically by direct microscopic examination, and also were examined by Modified ZiehlNeelsen [mZN] staining method. Enzyme Immuno Assay [EIA] and Multiplex PCR methods could only be used in 450 stool specimens selected from samples showing suspect cyst structures and watery stool specimens on direct microscopic examinations [to the extent that is possible].
Results: We detected, that of the 450 stool specimens examined by mZN stain with microscopic examination 39 [3.7%] are defined Cryptosporidium. Spp oocysts. Working on 450 stool samples with ELISA and multiplex PCR results respectively; in 28[7.5%] by ELISA, and in 2 [0.4 %] by Multiplex PCR is defined positive Cryptosporidium spp ..Only 2 cases with positive results were detected with 3 methods used in the diagnosis.
Conclusions: Microscopy is the reference standard method for routine diagnosis in stool intestinal parasites, but it requires experience. There are growing interests in the alternative methods due to the limitations of microscopic examination since it requires more time and experienced users. At least two methods must be used together for the diagnosis and attention should be paid to the selection and implementation of the methods.