| Abstract: | This study aimed to estimate the frequency, associated factors, and molecular
characterisation of Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba
dispar, Entamoeba moshkovskii, andEntamoeba
hartmanni infections. We performed a survey (n = 213 subjects) to obtain
parasitological, sanitation, and sociodemographic data. Faecal samples were processed
through flotation and centrifugation methods.E. histolytica,
E. dispar, E. moshkovskii, and E.
hartmanni were identified by nested-polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The
overall prevalence of infection was 22/213 (10.3%). The infection rate among subjects
who drink rainwater collected from roofs in tanks was higher than the rate in
subjects who drink desalinated water pumped from wells; similarly, the infection rate
among subjects who practice open defecation was significantly higher than that of
subjects with latrines. Out of the 22 samples positive for morphologically
indistinguishableEntamoeba species, the differentiation by PCR
was successful for 21. The species distribution was as follows: 57.1% to E.
dispar, 23.8% to E. histolytica, 14.3% toE.
histolytica and E. dispar, and 4.8% E.
dispar and E. hartmanni. These data suggest a high
prevalence of asymptomatic infection by the group of morphologically
indistinguishable Entamoeba
histolytica/dispar/moshkovskiicomplex
and E. hartmanni species. In this context of water scarcity, the
sanitary and socioenvironmental characteristics of the region appear to favour
transmission. |
