INCIDENCE OF CRYPTOSPORIDIUM SPP. IN THE HUMAN POPULATION OF MALATYA IN TURKEY

Abstract

Aims: Cryptosporidium Species, settled in the microvilli of digestive and respiratory systems of vertebrates, infect mammals, poultry, fish and reptiles. Cryptosporidium species are common worldwide. Symptoms vary depending on species of infected host, condition of the immune system and age. In healthy patients with strong immune system it is characterized by self-limiting diarrhea. in approximately 2 weeks, whereas in people with suppressed immune systems it can cause diarrhea such as cholera and could create a life-threatening clinical condition

The aim of this study is to,determine the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium species in the human population of Malatya province and around.

Materials and methods: In Malatya province in 2006, 2.281 stool samples were taken from patients admitted to the Inonu University Faculty of Medicine Parasitology Department with the gastrointestinal complaints and analyzed. On the other hand a questionnaire has been prepared to determine the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium species in the human population of Malatya province. Each patient included in the study filled out and signed a patient information form.

Results: In the studies, it has been reported that the Cryptosporidium injection rate is 6.1% in the developing countries and it is 2.1% in the developed countries. In different studies carried out in Turkey, it has been reported that the prevalence Of infection is between 0-35.5%. Stool samples were examined by direct microscopy and acid-fast staining method and 161 (7.1%) of them were positive. In this study, a significant relationship hasn't been found in patients with loss of appetite, general body itching, allergies, immunosuppressive and cancer, dyspnea, ulcerative. colitis, diarrhea, abdominal pain, salivation, constipation, nausea, vomiting, growth retardation, the rectal itching and anemia, but in the statistical analysis, the difference is statistically Significant.

Conclusion: Consequently, molecular studies are needed to determine the common Cryptosporidium species and their sources in Malatya province and around. This will guide in determining strategies of public health education.