Showing papers in "Journal of the Egyptian Society of Parasitology in 2004"

Hepatitis C virus infection at Sharkia Governorate, Egypt: seroprevalence and associated risk factors.

Abstract: Because many persons with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are asymptomatic, population based serologic studies are needed to estimate the prevalence of infection and to develop and evaluate prevention efforts. A sample of 1422 individuals was included in the study by using multistage sampling technique. Their age ranged from 4-78 years with a mean age (34.7 +/- 18.5), 782 were males (55%) and 640 were females (45%). Exposures and demographic characteristics were obtained through a predesigned questionnaire. Antibody to HCV was assessed using micro-particle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA) enzyme assay by IMX, and the HCV RNA was tested by Real-time PCR technique using ABI Prism 7700 system. The seroprevalence of antibodies to HCV were 23.4% and 27.4% in urban and rural areas respectively, with an overall prevalence (25.8%). This reflects prior HCV infection but not necessarily a current liver disease. Prevalence was higher among males than females and increased sharply with age, from 4.8% in those or = 40 years). Those who were not educated and farmers had a significantly high prevalence. The significant predictors of HCV infection were previous parenteral therapy for schistosomiasis (OR = 4.3, 95% CI = 3.6-7.9), among those over 20 years of age (3.5, 2.18-5.8), blood transfusion (4.1, 2.4-6.9), invasive procedures (surgery and endoscopy), and use of contaminated syringes and needles. Also, shaving at community barbers added significance to the model. Exposures not significantly related to HCV seropositivity were gender, active infection with Schistosoma mansoni, sutures or intravenous and urinary catheterization, water pipe "goza" smoking in group.

Toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Sanliurfa, Southeastern Anatolia City, Turkey.

Abstract: Blood samples from 1149 pregnant women (age 26.9 +/- 5.3 years; mean 20 weeks gestation) on their first prenatal visit to Obstetrics and Gynecology Department and analyzed for Toxoplasma-specific immunoglobulin (IgM) and immunoglobulin (IgG) by ELISA. 694 (60.4%) of the women were IgG-positive, indicating previous maternal infection, while 35 (3%) were IgM-positive, indicating recent infection, and 420 (38.9%) were sero-negative. The high sero-positive rate may be linked to traditional raw meat consumption. Treatment with spiramycin was effective in preventing congenital toxoplasmosis in children of sero-positive mothers who consented to treatment.

Efficacy of Myrrh in the treatment of schistosomiasis (haematobium and mansoni) in Ezbet El-Bakly, Tamyia Center, El-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt.

Abstract: Schistosomiasis remains a public health problem in Egypt, despite the continuous control effort. Most of the anti-schistosomal drugs have deleterious side effects or low efficacy. This necessitates a search for new safe and effective drug. A field survey was done in Ezbet El-Bakly (Tamyia Center) El-Fayoum Governorate to determine the magnitude of schistosomiasis haematobium and mansoni and to evaluate the efficacy of Mirazid (the oleo-resin extract from Myrrh of Commiphora molmol tree, family: Burseraceae) in the treatment of both types of schistosomiasis. Among the 1019 individuals parasitologically examined, the prevalence of S. haematobium and S. mansoni were 4.2% and 2.4% respectively and the geometric mean egg count (GMEC) were 33.2 eggs/10 ml urine and 113.3 eggs/gram stools. Most of the patients with haematobiasis and mansoniasis were <15 years (56.4% & 53.8%), males (56.4% & 53.8%) & illiterates (46.2% & 46.2%). All cases were treated by Myrrh (Mirazid) as two capsules (600 mg) on an empty stomach an hour before breakfast for six consecutive days and were followed up clinically and parasitologically by urine analysis by the sedimentation and nucleopore techniques and by hatching test and by stool analysis by sedimentation and Kato-Katz techniques and by hatching test. The parasitological cure rate after three months was 97.4% and 96.2% for S. haematobium and S. mansoni cases with the marvelous clinical cure without any side-effects. Patients not completely responded to a single course of treatment showed marked reduction of egg intensity. It is concluded that Mirazid proved to be safe and very effective in treatment of S. haematobium and S. mansoni infections under field conditions.

Clinical trial of Mirazid in treatment of human fascioliasis, Ezbet El-Bakly (Tamyia Center) Al-Fayoum Governorate.

Abstract: A field survey was done in Ezbet El-Bakly, Al-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt to assess the efficacy and safety of ~irazid@ in the treatment of human fascioliasis. Among 1019 individuals examined for parasitosis, the prevalence of fascioliasis was 1.7% and the geometric mean egg count (GMEC) was 33.2 eggslgram stools. About 23.5% of the fascioliasis patients were asymptomatic. The most frequent symptoms were abdol-ninal dis\tension and flatulence (76.5%), right hypochondria1 pain (17.6%) and epigastric pain (17.6%). The most prevalent signs were pallor (52.9%,), tender right hypochondrium (23.5%) and tinge of jaundice ( 17.6%). All cases were treated by ~irazid@ as two capsules (600mg) on an empty stomach an hour before breakfast for six consecutive days and followed up clinically and parasitologically. The parasitological cure rate, 'two and three months after treatment was 88.2% and 94.1% with an overt clinical cure without any side-effects. The cases not completely responding to a single course of treatment showed a marked reduction of the egg intensity. It was concluded that ~irazid@ (or Myrrh extract of Conznziphoru molnlol) is safe and effective in the treatment of human fascioliasis under the field conditions.

Evaluation of myrrh (Mirazid) therapy in fascioliasis and intestinal schistosomiasis in children: immunological and parasitological study.

Abstract: A total of 21 children with fascioliasis (8 males and 13 females) with mean age of 10.4 years, 8 children with schistosomiasis mansoni (6 males and 2 females) with mean age of 11.37 years were treated with Myrrh (Mirazid) which is an oleo-gum resin from the stem of Commiphora molmol tree (Family Burseraceae). Also, ten healthly cross matched children were utilized as controls. Diagnosis was based on the detection of Fasciola hepatica or Schistosoma mansoni eggs in stool by Kato-Katz technique. Mirazid was given as 10 mg/kg/d an hour before breakfast for 3 consecutive days in schistosomiasis and for 6 days in fascioliasis. Clinical evaluation and stool analysis were done initially and at 2, 4 and 12 weeks post treatment to evaluate cure. Rectal snip was done for responding schistosomiasis cases to confirm recovery. Automated complete blood count with manual assessment of eosinophils, serum total IgE (enzyme immunoassay) and in vitro cytokines assay (IL-1 beta, IL-4, IL-5) by ELISA were performed for all subjects before treatment and repeated 12 weeks only for patients after therapy. Parasitologic cure was 90.9% in fascioliasis and 100% in schistosomiasis at 4 weeks post treatment. After a second dose Fasciola patients who remained positive were cured. Total IgE was significantly higher in Fasciola and Schistosoma patients before treatment compared to control (p < 0.001; 0.005 respectively) and decreased significantly with therapy (p = 0.001; 0.036). IL-1beta was higher in both patient groups than control (p < 0.001; 0.003) and decreased significantly 12 weeks after therapy to control level (p < 0.001; 0.017). IL-5 was high before treatment in both groups (p = 0.041; 0.027) and decreased significantly after 12 weeks after therapy (p = 0.005; 0.012). IL-4 did not differ from control before therapy (p = 0.58; 0.79) but increased significantly after treatment in both patient groups (p = 0.04; 0.02). It is concluded that Mirazid is an effective fasciolicidal and schistosomicidal drug. IL-1beta and IL5 were high in fascioliasis and schistosomiasis, but decreased with therapy denoting immunopathogenesis. The depressed IL-4 production may be a parasite immune evasion or host regulatory mechanism and cytokines levels may be criteria of cure.

The role of aflatoxin-contaminated food materials and HCV in developing hepatocellular carcinoma in Al-Sharkia Governorate, Egypt.

Abstract: Aflatoxins, particularly aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) have been recognized as one of the most potent chemical carcinogen. In Egypt, HCV is prevalent. The progressive nature of HCV-related liver diseases was found to be influenced by other factors. In this paper, the role of aflatoxin contamination in the onset of liver cancer in HCV-infected patients was studied. The quantitative identification of the possible aflatoxins contamination in six urban and eleven rural areas using high performance liquid chromatography technique, revealed that corn, wheat, pea nut, lupine "termis", white rice, cowpea "lobiya", fava bean and brown rice showed the prevalence of AFB1 to be 64.7%, 53%, 53%, 47%, 47%, 41%, 29.4% & 29.4% respectively. A positive correlation was found between aflatoxin and positive HCV-PCR together with liver disease progression to G3S3, the indicative of hepatocellular carcinoma. Such correlation was not fully understood, but the oncogene amplification caused by HCV-infection may be aggravated by the consumption of aflatoxin contaminated raw food materials or their products.

Egyptian genotyping of Giardia lamblia.

Abstract: Out of 105 patients infected with Giardia, 38 patients have Genotype I (36.19%), 13 have Genotype II (12.38%), 10 have Genotype III (9.52%), 16 have mixed Genotype infection (15.24%) and 28 with undetermined Giardia infection by PCR (26.67%). None of the control group gave positive results for Giardia in stool by PCR. So, the sensitivity of the test for detection and identification of Giardia Genotypes from the original stool samples was 73.33% and specificity was 100%. Out of 61 cases in the symptomatic group, the prevalence of Giardia Genotype I was 32.79%, Genotype II was 16.39%, Genotype III was 9.84%, mixed Genotype infection was 16.39% and undetermined Genotype was 24.59% as compared to 40.91%, 6.82%, 9.09%, 13.64% & 29.55% in the asymptomatic group respectively. There is statistically insignificant difference between both groups as regarding the prevalence of the different Giardia Genotypes. (P < or = 0.05). The use of PCR as a routine work for diagnosis of giardiasis is not accepted at least in the developing and under-developing countries due to its high cost, the high quality of technical staff and advanced laboratory equipments required for PCR performance. Its application is usually limited to research activities, the detection of water sources contamination and for the detection of a potential source of Giardia infection in epidemics.

Pulmonary trichomoniasis: improved diagnosis by using polymerase chain reaction targeting Trichomonas tenax 18S rRNA gene in sputum specimens.

Abstract: A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting species-specific region in 18 small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of Trichomonas tenax was used to examine sputum specimens in order to diagnose pulmonary trichomoniasis caused by T. tenax. It was compared with wet mount preparation, Giemsa-stained smear, and Kupferberg Trichononas broth culture for detection of T. tenax trophozoites in sputum. The study included 250 individuals; 100 immunocompromised patients with chest complaints (group I) and 100 patients with chronic pulmonary diseases (group II), and 50 healthy individuals as controls (group III). 20 cases among all examined were positive in one or more method giving for pulmonary trichomniasis a total prevalence of 8%; 12 cases (12%) in group I, 8 cases (8%) in group II, and none in group III, with no significant difference between groups I & II. Pulmonary trichomoniasis was prevalent at age ranged between 31 to 50 years, and in total males (10%) than females (5.5%) with no significant difference. Among the 200 examined patients, pulmonary trichomoniasis had a prevalence of 3% by wet mount, 2.5% by Giemsa-stained smear, 7% by culture, compared to 10% by PCR. Culture was used as reference standard. All culture positive specimens were PCR positive showing a product at 0.8 Kb long by agarose gel electrophoresis, and giving a 100% sensitivity. Wet mount, Giemsa-stained smear, and culture had a sensitivity of 43%, 35.7%, and 70%, respectively. No PCR negative specimens were positive by any of the other methods. 6 specimens were culture negative PCR positive and remained PCR positive when retested 3 times. The calculated specificity of PCR was 97%. NO PCR target product was amplified with DNAs of T. vaginalis and various pulmonary pathogens. The results are discussed.

Seroepidemiological study of toxoplasmosis in rural areas in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia.

Abstract: Serum from 1400 human subjects of different age, occupation, life style of both sexes was collected. Serological analysis for inactive toxoplasmosis (levels of IgG) and active toxoplasmosis (IgM) was done using the Microparticle Enzyme Immuno-Assay (MEIA) IMx-Toxo, IgG and IgM assays. In Al-Nereiyah and Al-Qurain, the overall seroprevalence of inactive toxoplasmosis was almost similar (26.36% and 25.0% respectively), while active toxoplasmosis was higher in Al-Qurain (4.91%) than in Al-Nereiyah (3.78%). The seroprevalence of IgG was similar in males and females in both areas, but increased with age and was higher in housewives, employees and farmers than in students and children. Almost a similar result was recorded for IgM in respect to age and occupation except that seroprevalence was higher in females than in males in Al-Qurain area.

Molecular characterization of Egyptian human and anima Echinococcus granulosus isolates by RAPD-PCR technique.

Abstract: Five primers of known, but arbitrary nucleotide sequence (OPH-03, OPH-05, OPH-12, OPH-15, OPH-18) were used to detect genetic variability in Egyptian human, camel and pig E. granulosus isolates. OPH-03, OPH-05 & OPH-15 proved useful as genetic markers of strain variation, while OPH-12 and OPH-18 allowed distinction at the genus level i.e. diversified from Cysticercus tenuicollis. OPH-03 was the most effective giving sharp distinct banding pattern and the least values of similarity coefficients. Some variations were detected within E. granulosus isolates from the same host. The level of heterogeneity was low in three of the human isolates, camel and pig strains. Individual variation was detectable within other 3 human isolates. Human and camel isolates were the most related pair, having similar patterns and the highest similarity coefficients. The study implies that human cases in Egypt are of the camel/dog strain, and camels are important hosts for the transmission of human hydatidosis.

Evaluation of schistosomicidal activity of myrrh extract: parasitological and histological study.

Abstract: Ninety mice were divided into three main groups: G. I (non-infected control), G. II (infected non treated control) and G. III (infected treated), which was further subdivided into 4 subgroups: IIIA, IIIB, IIIC & IIID, where the drug was administered in a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight for five days before infection for subgroup IIIA, on the 1st day post infection (PI) for subgroup IIIB, 21 days PI for subgroup IIIC and 45 days post infection for subgroup IIID. All animals were sacrificed 80 days after the start of the experiment. Anti-schistosomal activity was assessed parasitologically by estimating the percentage reducetion of worm burden, egg count/gm tissues (liver & intestine), and the oogram pattern; histologically & histopathologically by examination of jejunum using different stains. The percentage reduction of worm burden was 30.35%, 64.54%, 76.92% and 98.46% respectively when compared to the infected non-treated control G. The maximum effect of the drug was observed in subgroups IIIC & IIID. Also, there was marked reduction in the egg count in tissues (liver & intestine). In addition the oogram pattern showed that myrrh had high antischistosomal activity. The histologically and histopathologically infected untreated (GII), when compared to non-infected non-treated control G. showed apparent shortening and flattening of the jejunal villi with focal loss of the epithelial covering. Loss of PAS positive brush border of many enterocytes with goblet cells hyperplasia was seen. Bilharzial granulomas were frequently encountered in the submucosa and the musculosa with numerous eosinophils content. In subgroups IIIA & IIIB, there was mild amelioration of the mucosal structural abnormalities. The granulomas were less frequently seen with decrease of their eosinophils. In subgroups IIIC & IIID there was restoration of the jejunal mucosal continuity, marked decrease in the granulomas and paucity of eosinophils. The present data proved that myrrh has a valuable schistosomicidal effect against different maturation stages of S. mansoni. The chemotherapeutic effect was more evident when the drug was given to the infected mice on the 21st as well as on the 45th day PI. The drug proved a promising chemoprophylactic agent when used five days before exposure to infection.

Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) in treatment of human and sheep dicrocoeliasis dendriticum in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract: Dicrocoeliasis dendriticum is now imposing itself as an animal and zoonotic helminthic disease in many Arabian countries. Myrrh extract of Commiphora molmol (Mirazid) successfully and safely treated clinically and parasitologically proven 18 human dicrocoeliasis dendriticum patients. The dose was 2 capsules (300 mg each) given on an empty stomach an hour before the breakfast for six successive days. Cure (100%) was achieved clinically and by stool analysis for two months follow up. Besides, fifteen sheep naturally infected with Dicrocoelium dendriticum as proven parasitologically were successfully and safely treated with 2 capsules (300 mg each) on an empty stomach an hour before breakfast for four successive days. Cure (100%) was successfully achieved by stool analysis for seven days and macroscopically for detection of any adult worm after being slaughtered. The total dose required to treat infected sheep (2400 mg) was less than that required for human treatment (3600 mg).

A simple micro-assay method for estimating blood meal size of the sand fly, Phlebotomus langeroni (Diptera: Psychodidae).

Abstract: The accurate measurement of blood meal size in Phlebotomus langeroni, the potential vector of infantile visceral leishmaniasis in Egypt, is important to determine the number of parasites taken in fully engorged insects. A simple protein content micro-assay is introduced for that purpose. The accuracy of this method was confirmed by hemoglobin estimation method. Laboratory bred P. langeroni were fed artificially on defibrinated human blood and the fully engorged flies were carefully dissected on ice, within 1-10 min after feeding, since the time of dissection is critical. Serial concentrations of the defibrinated human blood were required as standards. Results show that the full blood meal taken by P. langeroni ranged from 0.76-0.94 mm3 of blood with a mean volume of 0.85 +/- 0.02 mm3 and from 0.71- 0.99 mm3 of blood with a mean volume of 0.83 +/- 0.02 mm3 as measured by protein content and hemoglobin estimation methods respectively. The data showed that there is no significant difference (P=0.27) between the two methods in estimating the blood meal size of P. langeroni. In addition, protein content micro-assay had the advantages of being accurate, rapid, sensitive and reliable.

Investigation of induced biochemical and histopathological parameters of acetonitril extract of Jatropha carcus in albino rats.

Abstract: Toxicological and histopathological investigations were carried on the acetonitril extract from J. carcus in comparison to praziquantel, the known antischistosomal drug. On a constant weight dose bases (single dose of 50 mg/Kg body weight injected orally to albino rats), the acetonitril extract from J. carcus showed mild toxicological parameters (AST p < 0.001, ALT & creatinine, non-significant), biochemical parameters (total lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, proteins, albumins globulins, ascorbic acid and bilirubin, non-significant) and histo-pathological profile (slight alterations in liver, kidney and spleen), in comparison to control. However, these side-effects were very little as compared to the severe side-effects caused by Praziquantel.

Human giardiasis as an etiology of skin allergy: the role of adhesion molecules and interleukin-6.

Abstract: The role of adhesion molecules; the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) as mediators in development of skin allergy caused by giardiasis and the controlling role of the cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 over these adhesion molecules were studied. The work included 25 symptomatic giardiasis patients with skin allergy manifested by diffuse urticaria, pruritus, wheal and erythema, and had positive serum anti-Giardia immunoglobulin (Ig) E measured as mean optical density (OD) value by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), employed as an evidence of allergic sensitization (G.I). They were compared with 30 symptomatic giardiasis patients (G.II) and 20 apparently healthy control subjects (G.III), both latter groups had negative serum anti-Giardia IgE. The mean OD value of anti-Giardia IgE was significantly increased in G.I (P 0.05) compared with G.III. Serum levels of soluble forms of adhesion molecules; sICAM-1 & sVCAM-1, and IL-6 were determined by ELISA. sICAM-1 & sVCAM-1 serum levels were significantly increased (P 0.05) between Gs. II & III. Serum IL-6 significantly increased in G.I (P < 0.001) & G.II (P < 0.05) compared with G.III, and was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in G.I than G.II. Serum IL-6 correlated positively with serum sICAM-1 (P < 0.01) and sVCAM-1 (P < 0.001) in G.I. The results are discussed.

Myiasis in sheep farms in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract: During a survey for myiasis in Riyadh Region, 3712 sheep were examined. 73 animals (2%) were infested with different dipterous larvae. Out of the 115 larvae recovered, 100 larvae (87%) were Chrysomya bezziana, 10 (8.7%) were C. albiceps, and 5 (4.3%) were Wohlfahrtia nuba. The prevalence rate of larval myiasis among young sheep was 60%, and 40% among adults. The myiasis incidences were highest during Mar-May (60%) and Sept-Nov (31.5%) where temperature and R.H. are optimum. In the dry hot season (Jun-August) and cold season (Dec-Feb) infestation incidences were low (5%&1.5% respectively). Temperature and R.H. are conducive in controlling myiasis in other regions of the Kingdom.

Intestinal parasitic infections among primary school children in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Abstract: The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among primary school children, were studied by selection of seven male and seven female schools to cover different parts of Jeddah city. A total of 1000 questionnaire were distributed to primary school children, filled by the child's guardian and stool samples were collected from those who agreed to participate in the study. Two hundred and thirty one stool samples were collected. These were analyzed by the formaline-ether technique. Of the 231 stool samples, only 22 (9.5%) samples had parasites. Giardia lamblia was the most reported parasite. Double infection was seen in only 3 samples. The low prevalence of intestinal parasites among the study group reflects the outstanding health and hygienic care in primary schools visited.

Influence of Capparis spinosa and Acacia arabica on certain biochemical haemolymph parameters of Biomphalaria alexandrina.

Abstract: The work investigated the molluscicidal potency of dried Capparis spinosa and Acacia arabica leaves on selected biochemical parameters of Bionimphalaria alexandrina, in order to render them, physiologically, unsuitable for S. mansoni infection or at least disturb the life-cycle of the parasite within its respective snail host. The effect of the two plants on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), 5'-nucleotidase, acid phosphatase (AP), aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST & ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and glucose content were studied. This work was extended to evaluate the effect of these two plants on protein profile as well as total protein (TP) content of snail's in haemolymph after 24 hours and one week of snails plants feeding. The study revealed that both plants induced marked alteration in all the measured parameters, where LC50 of C. spinosa after fed one week showed the most potent effect.

Effect of myrrh extract on the liver of normal and bilharzially infected mice. An ultrastructural study.

Abstract: In the present work, the efficacy of purified oloe-resin extract of myrrh derived from Commiphora molmol tree (commercially known as Mirazid) as a new, natural antischistosomal drug was investigated. The effect of myrrh on the ultrastructural profile of the non infected normal mice liver was also studied. Sixty male mice were used throughout this work and they were divided into 3 main groups (20 animals each): group I, non infected control animals, group II, infected animals and group III, infected animals treated with myrrh extract 8 weeks post infection (500 mg/kg body weight). The drug was given orally on an empty stomach after overnight fasting for five successive days. All animals were sacrificed after 12 weeks from the beginning of the experiment and small pieces of the liver were excised and prepared for ultrastructural study. The liver of the non infected animals which received myrrh extract (group IA) showed a more or less normal ultrastructural profile. Infected groups showed alterations of the ultrastructure of most of the hepatocytes with extensive intercellular fibrosis with abundant granulomas in the portal tract. In the infected treated group, most of the hepatocytes showed normal organelles with numerous microvilli extending into patent spaces of Disse. Marked reduction of granulomas in the portal areas and amelioration of intercellular fibrosis was also observed. On the basis of the observed results, it was concluded that myrrh extract has a promising antischistosomal non hepatotoxic activity.

Effect of Ferula assafoetida on experimental murine Schistosoma mansoni infection.

Abstract: Ferula assafoetida is a hard, resinous, oily herbaceous gum belonging to plant family Umbelliferae. It is used as a traditional medicine in many parts of the world and its wide use in medicine was listed by many authors. In the current study, the effect of F. assafoetida on Schistosoma mansoni in experimentally infected mice is investigated. F. assafoetida was given orally via intragastric tube in an oil-form and a powder-form in different concentrations. Four test groups of 30 mice each were studied. Gs I & II mice were given F. assafoetida in an oil-form in different concentrations at 4 and 6 weeks post infection (PI) respectively. Mice in Gs III & IV were given re-constituted F. assafoetida powder in different concentrations (conc.) at 4 & 6 weeks PI. respectively like the previous groups. Oil-form F. assafoetida was given at conc. of 50, 25 & 15 mg/ml. Powder-form was given at conc. of 32, 16 & 8 mg/ml. A highly significant statistical difference between the test Gs (I, II, III & IV) was recorded in comparison to the infection control G with p value < 0.0001 and also between powder and oil forms of F. assafoetida (p < 0.0001) as regards the mean worm burden and tissue egg count. The highest reduction in worm burden and egg counts was found with powder form of F. assafoetida (Gs III & IV) when compared to oil form (Gs I & II), as confirmed histopathologically and by ultrastructural profile alteration.

Study of some immune aspects in patients with fascioliasis before and after Chommiphora molmol (Mirazid) treatment.

Abstract: This study was planned to evaluate the in vitro production of IL-1 beta and IL-4 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and total IgE in patients with fascioliasis before and 3 months after treatment with purified extract of myrrh from Commiphora molmol tree (Mirazid), to determine the role of these variables in immunopathogenesis of the disease in relation to this new drug The study was carried out in Departments of Tropical Medicine, Al-Azhar University Hospitals in the period from March 2002 to November 2003 A total of 35 patients with chronic fascioliasis with age range from 9-45 years in addition to 10 healthy subjects with matched age and sex serving as controls were studied Serum IgE and in vitro IL-1 and IL-4 were estimated by enzyme immuno-assay (ELISA) before and 3 months after therapy Results revealed significant increase in IL-1 beta in patients before treatment than control (p<0001) but it decreased significantly after therapy (p<0001) to reach the control level (p=016) In contrast, IL-4 was significantly lower than control before therapy (p=004) and increased significantly after treatment (p<0001) to reach normal levels as control (p=059) Total IgE was significantly elevated in patients before treatment (p<0001) and it did decrease significantly with treatment (p<0001), although it remained significantly higher than the control level In conclusion, Mirazid is an effective fasciolicidal drug IL-1 may be involved in disease immunopathogenesis and the depressed IL-4 may be a phenomenon of parasite immune suppression Complete decline of total IgE is not an early criterion of cure

Efficacy of Commiphora molmol (Mirazid) against sheep naturally infected with monieziasis expansa in Al-Santa Center, Gharbia Governorate, Egypt.

Abstract: The efficacy of Commiphora molmol or Myrrh (Mirazid) was evaluated in treating sheep naturally infected with Moniezia expansa. Total doses of one, two or three capsules (300 mg each) were given for one, two, three, four, five, six, seven and eight successive days on an empty stomach an hour before offering their breakfast. Every day the stools of the three groups were examined microscopically and macroscopically for eggs and/or gravid segments. When the stool was negative, the treatment was stopped. That sheep group was examined macroscopically after being slaughtered for adult worms in intestine. A total dose of 3600 mg given as three capsules per days for four days gave a cure rate of 100.0% with no clinical side effects. A dose of 4800 mg given as two capsules per day for eight days gave a cure rate of 100.0% with no clinical side effects. On the other hand, a total dose of 2400 given as one capsule per day for eight days gave a cure rate 40.0%. Consequently, Myrrh extract of the medicinal plant, Commiphora molmol (Mirazid) proved to be safe and very effective in sheep monieziasis expansa.

Compatibility of Biomphalaria alexandrina snails to infection with Schistosoma mansoni after exposure to sublethal concentrations of Myrrh.

Abstract: The effect of exposing B. alexandrina to sub-lethal dose (LC10 & LC20) of Myrrh, on its susceptibility to infection with S. mansoni miracidia were determined. Starting three weeks post miracidial exposure, cercarial shedding was monitored. No shedding of cercariae were observed from snails treated with LC20. In snails treated with LC10, longer prepatent cercarial and shorter cercarial production periods than those of control group were recorded. The number of infected snails and of shedding cercariae were decreased. The study revealed that sublethal values of myrrh decreased the compatibility of B. alexandrina to S. mansoni infection thus playing an important role in the control of schistosomiasis.

Molluscicidal and cercaricidal efficacy of Acanthus mollis and its binary and tertiary combinations with Solanum nigrum and Iris pseudacorus against Biomphalaria alexandrina.

Abstract: Molluscicidial activity of leaves of Acanthus mollis against Biomphalaria alexandrina were evaluated. Its petroleum ether extract (LC50 values = 6.92 mg/L) was more potent than Solanum nigrum and Iris pseudacorus extracts. A binary combination (1:1) of A. mollis and S. nigrum, as well as, a binary combination (1:1) of A. mollis and I. pseudacorus extracts showed additive effect on snails (24 hr LC50: 5.09 mg/l and 3.76 mg/l respecttively). A tertiary combination (1:1:1) of A. mollis, S. nigrum and I. pseudacorus extracts (24 hr LC50: 4.01 mg/l) showed good result. Also, petroleum ether extract of A. mollis leaves killed Schistosoma mansoni cercariae at concentrations of 20, 10 and 5 mg/l within 30, 45 min. and an hour respectively. Mortality increased with increasing exposure time and concentration.

Induced changes in biochemical parameters of the molluscan tissues non-infected using two potent plants molluscicides.

Abstract: Effect of Capparis spinosa (C. spinosa) and Acacia arabica (A. arabica) dry powder as plant molluscicide on some glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes on snail tissues, was investigated. Lactate debydrogenase (LDH), Pyruvate Kinase (PK), Hexokinase (HK), phosphofructokinase (PFK), glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI) as important glycolytic enzymes, were markedly manipulated by both plants when measured one day and one week post-treatment. On the other hand glucose-6-phosphatase (G-6Pase), fructose 1.6 diphosphatase (FDpase), phosphoenol pyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) as gluconeogenic enzymes were significantly affected by the moluscicidal plants. In addition, some other parameters as glycogen, glucose, total protein, 5-nucleotidase alpha-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (HBDH) and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) as kreb's cycle enzyme were tested. As conclusion, LC25 and LC50 concentrations of C. spinosa and A. arabica might render B. alexandrina physiologically unsuitable for S. mansoni infection.

Treatment of human Demodex folliculorum by camphor oil and metronidazole.

Abstract: A total of 15 females suffering from erythematotelangiectatic rosacea and 12 females free from other dermatological lesions were selected. Demodex folliculorum infestation density in both patients and control were evaluated by non-invasive skin surface biopsies. Five facial sites were selected. The daily topical application of 1/3 diluted camphor oil with glycerol and 500 mg metronidazole orally were given for fifteen days. The results were very successful with no clinical side effects.

Human Monieziasis expansa: the first Egyptian parastic zoonosis.

Abstract: This paper reports the first Egyptian zoonotic infection with the common tapeworm of sheep, Moniezia expansa. Perhaps this is the first human monieziasis expansa in the sheep raising countries worldwide. Diagnosis was based on recovery of the characteristic eggs from the stool of a fifteen-years-old shepherd. A single dose of Niclosamide one gram proved effective.

Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium parvum isolates obtained from humans.

Abstract: The natural history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has a highly variable course. Many patients develop chronic infection, with its consequent risk of cirrhosis, liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. A key question is whether patients at high risk of disease progression can be distinguished from those with relatively benign disease course. The disease progression is influenced by other factors such as duration of infection, age at infection, sex, co-infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV), Epstein Bar virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), the level of HCV viraemia and its type. Other endemic infections in the community as bilharziasis may have a role in progression of the condition to serious complications. These factors are correlated with newly proposed grades and stages of the disease. The studied (109) cases were divided into 6 groups according to the concomitant infection with HCV. The result proved that groups 1, 3 & 5 had a higher level of viraemia than other groups, and to be the high-risk groups as 56.4% and 34.6% were in G2S2 and G3S3, respectively. All cases of liver cell dysplasia and hepatocellular carcinoma in this study were seen in these groups. The conclusion showed that these factors play an important role in the progression of HCV infection. Death of the patients of this progressive condition occurs in younger age and is more due to liver failure than to HCC.

Evaluation of Capillaria philippinensis coproantigen in the diagnosis of infection.

Abstract: In order to overcome the false negative diagnosis of infection with C. philippinesis at time of absence of eggs in stool, coproantigen prepared from stools of infected patients was evaluated serologically. This antigen was able to detect anti-Capillaria antibodies in the sera of infected cases at the same OD level produced with Capillaria crude worm antigen using indirect ELISA technique C. philippenensis coproantigen did not cross-react with sera from patients with schistosomiasis mansoni, fascioliasis or strongyloidiasis at 1:00 serum dilution. Laboratory-prepared hyperimmune sera versus crude worm antigen of C. philippinensis succeeded in capturing Capillaria antigen prepared from the stools of infected patients and did not cross react with coproantigens prepared from stool samples of cases infected with S. mansoni or Fasciola using sandwich ELISA technique.

Antischistosomal effects of praziquantel, its alkaline hydrolysis and sun decomposed products on experimentally S. mansoni infected albino mice. (A) Efficacy assessment based on clinicopathological findings.

Abstract: The antischistosomal activity of praziquantel (PZQ), its alkaline hydrolysis product (HP) and its sun-decomposed (SD) products was investigated in S. mansoni experimentally infected mice. The evaluation was made depending on the degree of clinico-pathological changes. The results obtained revealed that, PZQ, HP and the SD have induced partial suppression of worm fecundity as judged by the significant reduction in eggs per gram of faeces in comparison with the infected untreated control. The effect on tissue egg deposition in the treated groups was comparable to the infection of untrea ted control. Worm recovery showed large reduction in the number of worms for SD (47.6%) and HP (28.6%) compared to PZQ (16.6%) treated groups. So, the former two compounds have the superior antischistosomal activities. Glutamate pyruvate transominase (GPT) and glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) concentrations were measured. The GOT values for all treated groups were significantly higher than those for the healthy control group (p=0.01). The SD group enzyme concentration was even higher than the infected untreated control. The GPT values of all groups were greater than the uninfected control and the difference was significant for the infected untreated, PZQ and the SD treated groups (p=0.05).