Abstract

CAZORLA-PERFETTI, Dalmiro et al. Clinical and epidemiological profiles of intestinal coccidian infection in Mirimire, Falcon state, Venezuela. Saber [online]. 2015, vol.27, n.1, pp.46-60. ISSN 1315-0162.

In previous surveys, clinical and epidemiological patterns of enteric coccidiosis have been studied in a semiarid zone of Falcon state, Venezuelan north-western region. As an attempt to compare these patterns with that of other bioclimatic zones, a descriptive, cross sectional study was conducted during September 2013 and January 2014, to determine the clinical and epidemiological profiles of intestinal coccidian infection in 238 inhabitants in the rural community of Mirimire, Falcon state, Venezuela. Parasitological diagnosis was made by employing direct smear and Kinyoun staining. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic diseases was 71.84 % (171/238), being Cryptosporidium spp. (53.36%) and Blastocystis spp. (51.26%) the parasitic taxa most frequently detected. Coccidiosis prevalence was 56.30 % (134/238), and 40.76% and 5.88% for ciclosporiosis and cystoisosporiosis, respectively. Diarrhea (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.33) and intestinal colics (OR = 2.42) were the clinical features significantly associated with these entero-parasitic infections (p ≤ 0.05). Overcrowded living conditions (Odds Ratio = 1.11) and hanging clothes together (OR = 1.26), as well as the cleaning frequency of animal feeders and drinkers every 15-30 days (OR = 1.82) and their non-regularly bathing (OR = 1.74), seem to be potential factors significantly associated with the transmission dynamic and endemic maintenance of enteric coccidian. Efforts to improve socio-sanitary conditions and to promote hygienic practices and health education were highly recommended in order to control and prevent enteric coccidiosis.

Keywords : Intestinal coccidiosis; epidemiology; clinical manifestations; Venezuela.

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