[Detection and differentiation of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar by polymerase chain reaction in a community in Zulia State, Venezuela]

Cad Saude Publica. 2009 Jan;25(1):151-9. doi: 10.1590/s0102-311x2009000100016.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

Differential identification of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar is essential for both appropriate patient treatment and epidemiological purposes. To determine the prevalence of these amoeba infections in Santa Rosa de Agua (Maracaibo, Zulia State, Venezuela), a PCR assay using specific primers for each species was standardized and applied. 204 stool samples were analyzed through direct microscopic examination with SSF (0.85%) and lugol, formol-ether concentration, and PCR. Under direct microscopy, 42 individuals (20.58%) presented the E. histolytica/E. dispar complex. Meanwhile PCR showed 47 positive cases for these amoebas: 22 E. histolytica (10.78%), 16 E. dispar (7.84%), and 9 (4.41%) mixed infections. There was no significant difference in the presence of E. histolytica and/or E. dispar according to either gender or age. There were no cases of these amoebas in children under 2 years of age. Observed frequency of E. histolytica (31/204) shows the endemic nature of amoeba infection in this community.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • DNA, Protozoan / classification*
  • DNA, Protozoan / isolation & purification
  • Entamoeba / classification
  • Entamoeba / genetics*
  • Entamoeba / isolation & purification
  • Entamoeba histolytica / classification
  • Entamoeba histolytica / genetics
  • Entamoeba histolytica / isolation & purification
  • Entamoebiasis / diagnosis*
  • Entamoebiasis / epidemiology
  • Entamoebiasis / parasitology
  • Feces / parasitology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Venezuela / epidemiology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • DNA, Protozoan