Blastocystis spp. and their association to other intestinal parasites in preschool children from Sucre State, Venezuela

Abstract

Introduction: Blastocystis spp. are among the most common intestinal parasites affecting humans. Their pathogenicity continues to be a topic of debate.

Objective: Determine the prevalence of Blastocystis spp. and their association to other intestinal parasites in preschool children.

Methods: Analysis was performed of 90 stool samples from preschool children. The coproparasitological techniques used were direct examination with 0.85% saline solution and lugol. The chi-square test was used to show the independence between the variables parasitic infection, sex and age. Fager's affinity index was determined to establish associations between the main enteroparasites identified.

Results: The study found 68 children infected with parasites, for a 75.6% prevalence. There were no significant differences with respect to age and sex (p> 0.05). The most common parasites were Blastocystis spp. (45.6%), Endolimax nana (30.9%) and Entamoeba coli (26.5%). The only helminth found was Enterobius vermicularis (1.5%). 42.6% of the children were infected with one parasite and 57.4% with two. The affinity index (I_AB) and t tests performed revealed a significant association between Blastocystis spp. and the protozoa E. nana and E. coli.

Conclusions: High prevalence was determined of Blastocystis spp. and intestinal protozoan species, all of which were indicative of fecal contamination. Environmental and sociocultural factors are likely to facilitate their transmission. This topic should continue to be addressed and examined due to the relevance of this parasite in current scientific debate, both nationally and internationally.