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PRINT ISSN : 2319-7692
Online ISSN : 2319-7706 Issues : 12 per year Publisher : Excellent Publishers Email : editorijcmas@gmail.com / submit@ijcmas.com Editor-in-chief: Dr.M.Prakash Index Copernicus ICV 2018: 95.39 NAAS RATING 2020: 5.38 |
Helminthic and protozoal infections of gastrointestinal tract remain a major health problem worldwide especially in tropical and subtropical areas. Light microscopy of stool specimens is the most frequently used for diagnosis of parasitic infections. However, it is time-consuming, and requires experienced staff. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of parasitic infections during routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Patients with different age groups admitted for upper endoscopy for any indication were subjected to informed consent, questionnaire including name, age, gender, residence, and indication for endoscopy. Duodenal aspirate samples were examined microscopically by direct smear examination, iodine, modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain, and immunodiagnostic technique for detection of Cryptosporidium and Giardia antigens. Histopathological examination of duodenal biopsies by hematoxylin and eosin stain for detection of parasites was also performed. This study was conducted on 70 patients. Most of parasitic infections were more prevalent in males than females, especially in age group from (40−60) years. Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium parvum were the most prevalent parasites. Cyclospora cayetanensis and Entamoeba histolytica were also detected. Ascaris lumbricoides was identified in one case by direct visualization by endoscope. Iodine and modified Ziehl-Neelsen stains for diagnosis of Giardia and Cryptosporidium respectively were more accurate than direct smear examination and rapid immunoassay test. Histopathological examination of duodenal biopsies had detected parasites and their pathological features of inflammation. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy proved a useful tool in the diagnosis of parasitic infections.