Objective:To assess the socioeconomic characteristics influencing knowledge,attitudes,and practices in preventing toxocariasis among the adult Khmer population in Tra Vinh Province,Vietnam.Methods:This cross-sectional...Objective:To assess the socioeconomic characteristics influencing knowledge,attitudes,and practices in preventing toxocariasis among the adult Khmer population in Tra Vinh Province,Vietnam.Methods:This cross-sectional study was conducted across 30 communities in eight districts and cities of Tra Vinh Province using a 30-cluster random sampling method during 2023.Results:The study encompassed 760 participants(median age:52 years;interquartile range:39-63 years),female 65.9%.There existed moderate levels of knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices among participants,with variations across sociodemographic groups.Education(OR 0.53;95%CI 0.36-0.53;P=0.002),and average family income(OR 0.40;95%CI 0.24-0.68;P=0.001)were inversely associated with poor knowledge.Participants aged≥60 years had higher odds of negative attitudes(OR 5.26;95%CI 2.31-11.96;P<0.001)towards toxocariasis prevention.Not owning pets(OR 1.53;95%CI 1.13-2.08;P=0.006)and age≥60 years(OR 5.33;95%CI 2.61-10.86;P<0.001)were associated with significantly higher odds of poor preventive practices.Conversely,higher education(OR 0.11;95%CI 0.06-0.20;P<0.001)and higher income(OR 0.14;95%CI 0.06-0.33;P<0.001)were protective factors,significantly reducing the risk of poor preventive practices.Conclusions:Knowledge,attitudes,and practice levels regarding toxocariasis prevention among Khmer adults in Tra Vinh were moderate and associated with age,education and income.Targeted health education efforts,especially in rural and low-income groups,are essential to improve preventive behaviors and reduce infection risks.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the clinical features of adult patients with ocular toxocariasis(OT) in north China and to diagnose adults OT patients in early stage.METHODS: Clinical data of 24 adults with OT were retrospectivel...AIM: To investigate the clinical features of adult patients with ocular toxocariasis(OT) in north China and to diagnose adults OT patients in early stage.METHODS: Clinical data of 24 adults with OT were retrospectively analyzed.Slit lamp photographs and fundus photographs and other imaging examinations of all the patients were reviewed.A questionnaire concerning the pet ownership and place of residence was completed to investigate the possible infection origin.Descriptive statistical analyses were performed on the demographic data, clinical features, funduscopic findings and ELISA results.RESULTS: Among the 24 patients diagnosed with OT by Toxocara IgG antibody in intraocular fluid, 16(66.7%) eyes were right eye.The onset age of 12 eyes(50.0%) was between 30 and 40 years old, and 21(87.5%) eyes were of peripheral granuloma type.The most common sign was vitreous opacity.Granulomas were detected in all the eyes, and 20(83.3%) patients resided in rural area.In 4 patients, the concentration of anti-Toxocara antibody both in anterior humor and in vitreous humor were detected, and the results showed the concentration in vitreous humor was much higher than aqueous humor.CONCLUSION: Our study analyzes the clinical manifestation of OT in adults, which may have been underrecognized before.Eye side, residence, and detection of granuloma may help us in diagnosis of OT in patients with monocular vitreous opacity.For adult patients with presumed OT, negative results of anti-Toxocara antibody in anterior humor cannot rule out the possibility of OT, further detection of vitreous humor is suggested for final diagnosis.展开更多
Ocular toxocariasis is prevalent among children.The symptoms and signs may mimic other ocular pathologies such as malignancies and other infectious diseases(such as toxoplasmosis and syphilis). We presented a case of ...Ocular toxocariasis is prevalent among children.The symptoms and signs may mimic other ocular pathologies such as malignancies and other infectious diseases(such as toxoplasmosis and syphilis). We presented a case of progressive blurring of vision in a single eye of a 9-year-old boy.The presence of anti-toxocara antibody in serum samples helps to confirmation the diagnosis in our patient.Despite of treatment,the boy had lost his vision on the affected eye.展开更多
BackgroundAnimal reservoirs of Toxocara spp., a neglected parasitic infection, are frequently found in many Ghanaian neighbourhoods. Despite various interactions occurring between these animals and humans which sustai...BackgroundAnimal reservoirs of Toxocara spp., a neglected parasitic infection, are frequently found in many Ghanaian neighbourhoods. Despite various interactions occurring between these animals and humans which sustain zoonosis, not much focus has been directed at disease surveillance in Ghana, necessitating this study.MethodsThe study was cross-sectional. It combined the collection of biological samples with the survey approach. The study used purposive and convenience sampling techniques to collect data from eligible participants in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Besides the collection of biological samples from animals which were processed using molecular techniques, semi-structured questionnaires were administered to the pet owners.ResultsIn sum, 32.2% (95% CI, 27.6%–37.0%) of the targeted animals were positive for Toxocara canis, with most of the cases being found in dogs and rodents. Among the 204 rodents, more Praomys tulbergi were positive for this parasite compared to the others. From the survey, some risk factors culminating in high disease exposure were identified: more than one-third of pet owners did not deworm their pets although about a fourth shared bed with them. In addition, many respondents’ kids played with these pets but not all supervised them to practice hand hygiene. Also, a good number of pet owners confirmed the frequent exposure of their pets to rodents.ConclusionsThe relatively high prevalence of T. canis recorded in animals and the increasing exposure of humans to this parasite point to a higher risk for human toxocariasis. Furthermore, T. canis found in cats cannot be ignored and merits further investigations. For Ghana to achieve SDG 3 by 2030, priority must also be placed on neglected diseases which calls for an integrated approach to disease surveillance and a redirection of research focus using the one health concept.展开更多
Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis,or less commonly,Toxocara cati,which is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide.It commonly affects the pediatric and immunocompromised popula...Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis,or less commonly,Toxocara cati,which is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide.It commonly affects the pediatric and immunocompromised population;however,it has rarely been reported in the immunocompetent adults.Two of the well-recognized syndromes in children are visceral larva migrans and ocular larva migrans.Infection in adults usually ranges from asymptomatic to nonspecific symptoms which makes the diagnosis challenging.A case of 36 year-old male was presented with disseminated toxocariasis with pulmonary and hepatic involvement and striking peripheral eosinophilia.展开更多
Human toxocariasis is a widespread parasitic disease caused by ingestion of Toxocara canis or catis larvae or eggs. Parasitic diseases are uncommon in industrialized countries, yet this problem has not disappeared. Pa...Human toxocariasis is a widespread parasitic disease caused by ingestion of Toxocara canis or catis larvae or eggs. Parasitic diseases are uncommon in industrialized countries, yet this problem has not disappeared. Parasitic diseases can cause different syndrome (visceral larva migrans, ocular larva migrans) and the clinical features can be confusing. Severe organ involvement affecting the liver, lungs, nervous central system and eyes can lead to serious damage. We present a case of toxocariasis presenting with fever, desaturation and cholestatic hepatitis. Only the subsequent appearance of eosinophilia helped us to arrive at the correct diagnosis. Prompt diagnosis allowed specific therapy avoiding permanent complications.展开更多
Background:Toxocariasis is a neglected parasitic zoonosis that afflicts millions of the pediatric and adolescent populations worldwide,especially in impoverished communities.This disease is caused by infection with th...Background:Toxocariasis is a neglected parasitic zoonosis that afflicts millions of the pediatric and adolescent populations worldwide,especially in impoverished communities.This disease is caused by infection with the larvae of Toxocara canis and T.cati,the most ubiquitous intestinal nematode parasite in dogs and cats,respectively.In this article,recent advances in the epidemiology,clinical presentation,diagnosis and pharmacotherapies that have been used in the treatment of toxocariasis are reviewed.Main text:Over the past two decades,we have come far in our understanding of the biology and epidemiology of toxocariasis.However,lack of laboratory infrastructure in some countries,lack of uniform case definitions and limited surveillance infrastructure are some of the challenges that hindered the estimation of global disease burden.Toxocariasis encompasses four clinical forms:visceral,ocular,covert and neural.Incorrect or misdiagnosis of any of these disabling conditions can result in severe health consequences and considerable medical care spending.Fortunately,multiple diagnostic modalities are available,which if effectively used together with the administration of appropriate pharmacologic therapies,can minimize any unnecessary patient morbidity.Conclusions:Although progress has been made in the management of toxocariasis patients,there remains much work to be done.Implementation of new technologies and better understanding of the pathogenesis of toxocariasis can identify new diagnostic biomarkers,which may help in increasing diagnostic accuracy.Also,further clinical research breakthroughs are needed to develop better ways to effectively control and prevent this serious disease.展开更多
This a case of 2 immunocompromised patients with a surprising ocular toxocariasis infestation.The first is a 23-year-old girl who is a known case of systemic lupus erythematosus,presenting with both eyes progressive b...This a case of 2 immunocompromised patients with a surprising ocular toxocariasis infestation.The first is a 23-year-old girl who is a known case of systemic lupus erythematosus,presenting with both eyes progressive blurring of vision for the past 3 months.Examinations showed bilateral panuveitis with posterior pole granuloma.She was treated as endogenous endophthalmitis as per protocol,but with limited improvement.To our surprise and with high index of clinical suspicion,Toxocara serology was positive.She was then started on oral albendazole for 4 weeks.The second case is a 51-year-old lady with end stage renal failure undergoing regular dialysis and on immunosuppressive therapy.She was warded for long duration for sepsis secondary to candidal fungal infection.Examinations revealed right peripheral and posterior pole granulomas almost exactly similar to the first patient.She was treated for endogenous endophthalmitis and again in close succession a positive serology was confirmed.Both cases since then showed gradual clinical improvement.展开更多
We evaluated thirteen eyes of twelve patients diagnosed clinically and serologically with Toxocara optic neuropathy. Eleven patients had unilateral involvement and one patient had bilateral optic neuropathy. Eight pat...We evaluated thirteen eyes of twelve patients diagnosed clinically and serologically with Toxocara optic neuropathy. Eleven patients had unilateral involvement and one patient had bilateral optic neuropathy. Eight patients （66.7%） had a possible infection source to Toxocara. Six patients （50%） had painless acute optic neuropathy. Ten eyes had asymmetric, sectorial optic disc edema with peripapillary infiltration and three eyes had diffuse optic disc edema. Eosinophilia was noted in five patients （41.7%） and optic nerve enhancement was observed in eight of eleven eyes （72.7%） with available orbit magnetic resonance imaging （MRI）. Mean visual acuity significantly improved following treatment [mean logarithmic of the minimum angle of resolution （IogMAR） 0.94±0.56 at baseline and 0.47±0.59 at the final （P=0.02）]. Asymmetric optic disc edema with a peripapillary lesion and a history of raw meat ingestion were important clues for diagnosing Toxocara optic neuropathy. Additionally, Toxocara IgG enzymelinked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） test and evaluating eosinophil may be helpful for diagnosis.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the frequency of anti-Toxocara spp.antibodies in an adult healthy population.Methods:The study was performed by interviewing 253 blood donors,from 19 to65 years of age,in a hematological centre i...Objective:To evaluate the frequency of anti-Toxocara spp.antibodies in an adult healthy population.Methods:The study was performed by interviewing 253 blood donors,from 19 to65 years of age,in a hematological centre in Presidente Prudente,S(?)o Paulo,southeast Brazil.A survey was applied to blood donors in order to evaluate the possible factors associated to the presence of antibodies,including individual(gender and age),socioeconomic(scholarship,familial income and sanitary facilities)and habit information(contact with soil,geophagy,onycophagy and intake of raw/undercooked meat)as well as the presence of dogs or cats in the household.ELISA test was run for detection of the anti-Toxocara spp.IgG antibodies.Bivariate analysis followed by logistic regression was performed to evaluate the potential risk factors associated to seropositivity.Results:The overall prevalence observed in this study was 8.7%(22/253).Contact with soil was the unique risk factor associated with the presence of antibodies(P=0.0178;0R=3.52;95%CI=1.244-9.995).Conclusions:The results of this study reinforce the necessity in promoting preventive public health measures,even for healthy adult individual,particularly those related to the deworming of pets to avoid the soil contamination,and hygiene education of the population.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the clinical characteristics and progression of liver abscess caused by toxocara.METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with serum Ig G antibody to Toxocara canis and liv...AIM: To evaluate the clinical characteristics and progression of liver abscess caused by toxocara.METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with serum Ig G antibody to Toxocara canis and liver abscess diagnosed using abdominal computed tomography between February 2010 and February 2015. Among 84 patients exhibiting serum Ig G antibody to Toxocara canis, 34 patients were diagnosed with liver asbscess and treated with albendazole. A follow-up period of 1 year was conducted. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 53(34-79) years, with 26(76.5%) patients being male. Twenty-one(61.7%) patients were moderate or heavy drinkers, 23(67.6%) patients had a history of eating raw meat or liver and 6(17.6%) patients owned pet dogs or cats. Main patient symptoms consisted of right upper quadrant pain, fever, and fatigue; 18(52.9%) patients, however, presented with no symptoms. Lung involvement was detected in 444(11.7%) patients. The eosinophil count increased in 29(85.3%) patients at initial diagnosis, and decreased in most patients after albendazole treatment. The initial serum Ig E level increased in 25(73.5%) patients, but exhibited various response levels after albendazole treatment. Liver abscess formation improved in all patients.CONCLUSION: The liver abscess was improved with albendazole treatment.展开更多
Background Human toxocariasis,caused by the zoonotic parasites Toxocara canis(dog roundworm)and T.cati(cat roundworm),affects approximately 19%of the global population,ranking it among the most prevalent neglected inf...Background Human toxocariasis,caused by the zoonotic parasites Toxocara canis(dog roundworm)and T.cati(cat roundworm),affects approximately 19%of the global population,ranking it among the most prevalent neglected infection of poverty.However,public awareness about this zoonotic disease has not yet been achieved in China.In this study,we conducted an epidemiological survey to assess the prevalence and risk factors of Toxocara infection in dogs and cats,as well as toxocariasis or Toxocara exposure in humans in Zhejiang.Methods An epidemiological survey was conducted between January 2023 and April 2024 to ascertain the prevalence of Toxocara infection in Zhejiang,where has been set to be a model for common prosperity in China.Fecal samples from dogs(n=1156)and cats(n=818)were examined for Toxocara eggs using the saturated saline floatation method and molecular tools,while human serum samples(n=347)were tested for antibodies against Toxocara species by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Risk factors for Toxocara infection in dogs,cats and humans were analyzed using logistic regression models.Results The overall prevalence of Toxocara infection was 5.36%in dogs,2.08%in cats,and 12.10%in humans in Zhejiang,China.Age(≤6 months,OR=6.22,P=0.026),season(autumn,OR=13.93,P=0.017 and spring,OR=11.07,P=0.027)and deworming frequency(<4 times/year,OR=0.18,P<0.001)were identified as major risk factors for T.canis infection in dogs,whereas residing in an animal shelter(OR=13.14,P=0.020)was a risk factor for T.cati infection in cats.Occupation exposure(OR=4.53,P=0.009)was the most significant risk factor for Toxocara infection in humans.Conclusions Due to the good economic status and social welfare,the prevalence of Toxocara infection in dogs,cats and humans is relatively low in Zhejiang,China.However,an“One Health”paradigm about human toxocariasis intervention is lacking and the risk factors(particularly pet deworming and occupational exposure)for Toxocara infection and transmission warrant improved public awareness.展开更多
Background Toxocara canis,the most prevalent helminth in dogs and other canines,is one of the socioeconomically important zoonotic parasites,particularly affecting pediatric and adolescent populations in impoverished ...Background Toxocara canis,the most prevalent helminth in dogs and other canines,is one of the socioeconomically important zoonotic parasites,particularly affecting pediatric and adolescent populations in impoverished communities.However,limited information is available regarding the proteomes of female and male adult T.canis.To address this knowledge gap,we performed a comprehensive proteomic analysis to identify the proteins with differential abundance(PDAs)and gender-specifically expressed proteins between the two sexes adult T.canis.Methods The comparative proteomic analysis was carried out by the Orbitrap mass spectrometry(MS)with asymmetric track lossless(Astral)analyzer.The difference analysis was conducted using t-test and the proteins verification was achieved through parallel reaction monitoring(PRM).The potential biological functions of identified adult T.canis proteins and PDAs were predicted by Gene Ontology(GO)and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)databases.The domain,transcription factor and subcellular localization of the identified proteins and PDAs were analyzed by InterPro,AnimalTFDB 4.0 and Cell-mPLOC 2.0 databases,respectively.Results A total of 8565 somatic proteins of adult T.canis were identified.Compared to male adult,682 up-regulated PDAs and 844 down-regulated PDAs were identified in female adult with P-values<0.05 and|log2FC|>1,including 139 proteins exclusively expressed in female and 272 proteins exclusively expressed in male.The GO annotation analysis using all PDAs revealed that the main biological processes,cellular components and molecular functions corresponded to aminoglycan metabolic process,extracellular region and protein tyrosine phosphatase activity,respectively.The KEGG analysis using all PDAs showed that the pathways were mainly associated with adipocytokine signaling pathway,proximal tubule bicarbonate reclamation and PPAR signaling pathway.Conclusions This study reveals the differential protein expression between female and male adult T.canis,providing valuable resource for developing the novel intervention strategies against T.canis infection in humans and animals,especially from the perspective of sexual development and reproduction.展开更多
文摘Objective:To assess the socioeconomic characteristics influencing knowledge,attitudes,and practices in preventing toxocariasis among the adult Khmer population in Tra Vinh Province,Vietnam.Methods:This cross-sectional study was conducted across 30 communities in eight districts and cities of Tra Vinh Province using a 30-cluster random sampling method during 2023.Results:The study encompassed 760 participants(median age:52 years;interquartile range:39-63 years),female 65.9%.There existed moderate levels of knowledge,attitudes,and preventive practices among participants,with variations across sociodemographic groups.Education(OR 0.53;95%CI 0.36-0.53;P=0.002),and average family income(OR 0.40;95%CI 0.24-0.68;P=0.001)were inversely associated with poor knowledge.Participants aged≥60 years had higher odds of negative attitudes(OR 5.26;95%CI 2.31-11.96;P<0.001)towards toxocariasis prevention.Not owning pets(OR 1.53;95%CI 1.13-2.08;P=0.006)and age≥60 years(OR 5.33;95%CI 2.61-10.86;P<0.001)were associated with significantly higher odds of poor preventive practices.Conversely,higher education(OR 0.11;95%CI 0.06-0.20;P<0.001)and higher income(OR 0.14;95%CI 0.06-0.33;P<0.001)were protective factors,significantly reducing the risk of poor preventive practices.Conclusions:Knowledge,attitudes,and practice levels regarding toxocariasis prevention among Khmer adults in Tra Vinh were moderate and associated with age,education and income.Targeted health education efforts,especially in rural and low-income groups,are essential to improve preventive behaviors and reduce infection risks.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.82070948)Scientific Research Program of Beijing Municipal Commission of Education (No.KM202010025020)+1 种基金Beijing Talent Project (No.2020027)Shunyi District “Beijing Science and Technology Achievements Transformation Coordination and Service Platform” Construction Fund (No.SYGX202010)。
文摘AIM: To investigate the clinical features of adult patients with ocular toxocariasis(OT) in north China and to diagnose adults OT patients in early stage.METHODS: Clinical data of 24 adults with OT were retrospectively analyzed.Slit lamp photographs and fundus photographs and other imaging examinations of all the patients were reviewed.A questionnaire concerning the pet ownership and place of residence was completed to investigate the possible infection origin.Descriptive statistical analyses were performed on the demographic data, clinical features, funduscopic findings and ELISA results.RESULTS: Among the 24 patients diagnosed with OT by Toxocara IgG antibody in intraocular fluid, 16(66.7%) eyes were right eye.The onset age of 12 eyes(50.0%) was between 30 and 40 years old, and 21(87.5%) eyes were of peripheral granuloma type.The most common sign was vitreous opacity.Granulomas were detected in all the eyes, and 20(83.3%) patients resided in rural area.In 4 patients, the concentration of anti-Toxocara antibody both in anterior humor and in vitreous humor were detected, and the results showed the concentration in vitreous humor was much higher than aqueous humor.CONCLUSION: Our study analyzes the clinical manifestation of OT in adults, which may have been underrecognized before.Eye side, residence, and detection of granuloma may help us in diagnosis of OT in patients with monocular vitreous opacity.For adult patients with presumed OT, negative results of anti-Toxocara antibody in anterior humor cannot rule out the possibility of OT, further detection of vitreous humor is suggested for final diagnosis.
文摘Ocular toxocariasis is prevalent among children.The symptoms and signs may mimic other ocular pathologies such as malignancies and other infectious diseases(such as toxoplasmosis and syphilis). We presented a case of progressive blurring of vision in a single eye of a 9-year-old boy.The presence of anti-toxocara antibody in serum samples helps to confirmation the diagnosis in our patient.Despite of treatment,the boy had lost his vision on the affected eye.
文摘BackgroundAnimal reservoirs of Toxocara spp., a neglected parasitic infection, are frequently found in many Ghanaian neighbourhoods. Despite various interactions occurring between these animals and humans which sustain zoonosis, not much focus has been directed at disease surveillance in Ghana, necessitating this study.MethodsThe study was cross-sectional. It combined the collection of biological samples with the survey approach. The study used purposive and convenience sampling techniques to collect data from eligible participants in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Besides the collection of biological samples from animals which were processed using molecular techniques, semi-structured questionnaires were administered to the pet owners.ResultsIn sum, 32.2% (95% CI, 27.6%–37.0%) of the targeted animals were positive for Toxocara canis, with most of the cases being found in dogs and rodents. Among the 204 rodents, more Praomys tulbergi were positive for this parasite compared to the others. From the survey, some risk factors culminating in high disease exposure were identified: more than one-third of pet owners did not deworm their pets although about a fourth shared bed with them. In addition, many respondents’ kids played with these pets but not all supervised them to practice hand hygiene. Also, a good number of pet owners confirmed the frequent exposure of their pets to rodents.ConclusionsThe relatively high prevalence of T. canis recorded in animals and the increasing exposure of humans to this parasite point to a higher risk for human toxocariasis. Furthermore, T. canis found in cats cannot be ignored and merits further investigations. For Ghana to achieve SDG 3 by 2030, priority must also be placed on neglected diseases which calls for an integrated approach to disease surveillance and a redirection of research focus using the one health concept.
文摘Toxocariasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Toxocara canis,or less commonly,Toxocara cati,which is one of the most common zoonotic infections worldwide.It commonly affects the pediatric and immunocompromised population;however,it has rarely been reported in the immunocompetent adults.Two of the well-recognized syndromes in children are visceral larva migrans and ocular larva migrans.Infection in adults usually ranges from asymptomatic to nonspecific symptoms which makes the diagnosis challenging.A case of 36 year-old male was presented with disseminated toxocariasis with pulmonary and hepatic involvement and striking peripheral eosinophilia.
文摘Human toxocariasis is a widespread parasitic disease caused by ingestion of Toxocara canis or catis larvae or eggs. Parasitic diseases are uncommon in industrialized countries, yet this problem has not disappeared. Parasitic diseases can cause different syndrome (visceral larva migrans, ocular larva migrans) and the clinical features can be confusing. Severe organ involvement affecting the liver, lungs, nervous central system and eyes can lead to serious damage. We present a case of toxocariasis presenting with fever, desaturation and cholestatic hepatitis. Only the subsequent appearance of eosinophilia helped us to arrive at the correct diagnosis. Prompt diagnosis allowed specific therapy avoiding permanent complications.
基金This study was financially supported by the Elite Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences,the International Science&Technology Cooperation Program of China(grant No.2013DFA31840)the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program(ASTIP)(Grant No.CAAS-ASTIP-2016-LVRI-03).
文摘Background:Toxocariasis is a neglected parasitic zoonosis that afflicts millions of the pediatric and adolescent populations worldwide,especially in impoverished communities.This disease is caused by infection with the larvae of Toxocara canis and T.cati,the most ubiquitous intestinal nematode parasite in dogs and cats,respectively.In this article,recent advances in the epidemiology,clinical presentation,diagnosis and pharmacotherapies that have been used in the treatment of toxocariasis are reviewed.Main text:Over the past two decades,we have come far in our understanding of the biology and epidemiology of toxocariasis.However,lack of laboratory infrastructure in some countries,lack of uniform case definitions and limited surveillance infrastructure are some of the challenges that hindered the estimation of global disease burden.Toxocariasis encompasses four clinical forms:visceral,ocular,covert and neural.Incorrect or misdiagnosis of any of these disabling conditions can result in severe health consequences and considerable medical care spending.Fortunately,multiple diagnostic modalities are available,which if effectively used together with the administration of appropriate pharmacologic therapies,can minimize any unnecessary patient morbidity.Conclusions:Although progress has been made in the management of toxocariasis patients,there remains much work to be done.Implementation of new technologies and better understanding of the pathogenesis of toxocariasis can identify new diagnostic biomarkers,which may help in increasing diagnostic accuracy.Also,further clinical research breakthroughs are needed to develop better ways to effectively control and prevent this serious disease.
文摘This a case of 2 immunocompromised patients with a surprising ocular toxocariasis infestation.The first is a 23-year-old girl who is a known case of systemic lupus erythematosus,presenting with both eyes progressive blurring of vision for the past 3 months.Examinations showed bilateral panuveitis with posterior pole granuloma.She was treated as endogenous endophthalmitis as per protocol,but with limited improvement.To our surprise and with high index of clinical suspicion,Toxocara serology was positive.She was then started on oral albendazole for 4 weeks.The second case is a 51-year-old lady with end stage renal failure undergoing regular dialysis and on immunosuppressive therapy.She was warded for long duration for sepsis secondary to candidal fungal infection.Examinations revealed right peripheral and posterior pole granulomas almost exactly similar to the first patient.She was treated for endogenous endophthalmitis and again in close succession a positive serology was confirmed.Both cases since then showed gradual clinical improvement.
文摘We evaluated thirteen eyes of twelve patients diagnosed clinically and serologically with Toxocara optic neuropathy. Eleven patients had unilateral involvement and one patient had bilateral optic neuropathy. Eight patients （66.7%） had a possible infection source to Toxocara. Six patients （50%） had painless acute optic neuropathy. Ten eyes had asymmetric, sectorial optic disc edema with peripapillary infiltration and three eyes had diffuse optic disc edema. Eosinophilia was noted in five patients （41.7%） and optic nerve enhancement was observed in eight of eleven eyes （72.7%） with available orbit magnetic resonance imaging （MRI）. Mean visual acuity significantly improved following treatment [mean logarithmic of the minimum angle of resolution （IogMAR） 0.94±0.56 at baseline and 0.47±0.59 at the final （P=0.02）]. Asymmetric optic disc edema with a peripapillary lesion and a history of raw meat ingestion were important clues for diagnosing Toxocara optic neuropathy. Additionally, Toxocara IgG enzymelinked immunosorbent assay （ELISA） test and evaluating eosinophil may be helpful for diagnosis.
基金Supported by Universidade do Oeste Paulista (Unoeste)(Grant No.184/2009)
文摘Objective:To evaluate the frequency of anti-Toxocara spp.antibodies in an adult healthy population.Methods:The study was performed by interviewing 253 blood donors,from 19 to65 years of age,in a hematological centre in Presidente Prudente,S(?)o Paulo,southeast Brazil.A survey was applied to blood donors in order to evaluate the possible factors associated to the presence of antibodies,including individual(gender and age),socioeconomic(scholarship,familial income and sanitary facilities)and habit information(contact with soil,geophagy,onycophagy and intake of raw/undercooked meat)as well as the presence of dogs or cats in the household.ELISA test was run for detection of the anti-Toxocara spp.IgG antibodies.Bivariate analysis followed by logistic regression was performed to evaluate the potential risk factors associated to seropositivity.Results:The overall prevalence observed in this study was 8.7%(22/253).Contact with soil was the unique risk factor associated with the presence of antibodies(P=0.0178;0R=3.52;95%CI=1.244-9.995).Conclusions:The results of this study reinforce the necessity in promoting preventive public health measures,even for healthy adult individual,particularly those related to the deworming of pets to avoid the soil contamination,and hygiene education of the population.
文摘AIM: To evaluate the clinical characteristics and progression of liver abscess caused by toxocara.METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with serum Ig G antibody to Toxocara canis and liver abscess diagnosed using abdominal computed tomography between February 2010 and February 2015. Among 84 patients exhibiting serum Ig G antibody to Toxocara canis, 34 patients were diagnosed with liver asbscess and treated with albendazole. A follow-up period of 1 year was conducted. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 53(34-79) years, with 26(76.5%) patients being male. Twenty-one(61.7%) patients were moderate or heavy drinkers, 23(67.6%) patients had a history of eating raw meat or liver and 6(17.6%) patients owned pet dogs or cats. Main patient symptoms consisted of right upper quadrant pain, fever, and fatigue; 18(52.9%) patients, however, presented with no symptoms. Lung involvement was detected in 444(11.7%) patients. The eosinophil count increased in 29(85.3%) patients at initial diagnosis, and decreased in most patients after albendazole treatment. The initial serum Ig E level increased in 25(73.5%) patients, but exhibited various response levels after albendazole treatment. Liver abscess formation improved in all patients.CONCLUSION: The liver abscess was improved with albendazole treatment.
基金supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Zhejiang Province(No.2023C02036).
文摘Background Human toxocariasis,caused by the zoonotic parasites Toxocara canis(dog roundworm)and T.cati(cat roundworm),affects approximately 19%of the global population,ranking it among the most prevalent neglected infection of poverty.However,public awareness about this zoonotic disease has not yet been achieved in China.In this study,we conducted an epidemiological survey to assess the prevalence and risk factors of Toxocara infection in dogs and cats,as well as toxocariasis or Toxocara exposure in humans in Zhejiang.Methods An epidemiological survey was conducted between January 2023 and April 2024 to ascertain the prevalence of Toxocara infection in Zhejiang,where has been set to be a model for common prosperity in China.Fecal samples from dogs(n=1156)and cats(n=818)were examined for Toxocara eggs using the saturated saline floatation method and molecular tools,while human serum samples(n=347)were tested for antibodies against Toxocara species by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Risk factors for Toxocara infection in dogs,cats and humans were analyzed using logistic regression models.Results The overall prevalence of Toxocara infection was 5.36%in dogs,2.08%in cats,and 12.10%in humans in Zhejiang,China.Age(≤6 months,OR=6.22,P=0.026),season(autumn,OR=13.93,P=0.017 and spring,OR=11.07,P=0.027)and deworming frequency(<4 times/year,OR=0.18,P<0.001)were identified as major risk factors for T.canis infection in dogs,whereas residing in an animal shelter(OR=13.14,P=0.020)was a risk factor for T.cati infection in cats.Occupation exposure(OR=4.53,P=0.009)was the most significant risk factor for Toxocara infection in humans.Conclusions Due to the good economic status and social welfare,the prevalence of Toxocara infection in dogs,cats and humans is relatively low in Zhejiang,China.However,an“One Health”paradigm about human toxocariasis intervention is lacking and the risk factors(particularly pet deworming and occupational exposure)for Toxocara infection and transmission warrant improved public awareness.
文摘Background Toxocara canis,the most prevalent helminth in dogs and other canines,is one of the socioeconomically important zoonotic parasites,particularly affecting pediatric and adolescent populations in impoverished communities.However,limited information is available regarding the proteomes of female and male adult T.canis.To address this knowledge gap,we performed a comprehensive proteomic analysis to identify the proteins with differential abundance(PDAs)and gender-specifically expressed proteins between the two sexes adult T.canis.Methods The comparative proteomic analysis was carried out by the Orbitrap mass spectrometry(MS)with asymmetric track lossless(Astral)analyzer.The difference analysis was conducted using t-test and the proteins verification was achieved through parallel reaction monitoring(PRM).The potential biological functions of identified adult T.canis proteins and PDAs were predicted by Gene Ontology(GO)and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)databases.The domain,transcription factor and subcellular localization of the identified proteins and PDAs were analyzed by InterPro,AnimalTFDB 4.0 and Cell-mPLOC 2.0 databases,respectively.Results A total of 8565 somatic proteins of adult T.canis were identified.Compared to male adult,682 up-regulated PDAs and 844 down-regulated PDAs were identified in female adult with P-values<0.05 and|log2FC|>1,including 139 proteins exclusively expressed in female and 272 proteins exclusively expressed in male.The GO annotation analysis using all PDAs revealed that the main biological processes,cellular components and molecular functions corresponded to aminoglycan metabolic process,extracellular region and protein tyrosine phosphatase activity,respectively.The KEGG analysis using all PDAs showed that the pathways were mainly associated with adipocytokine signaling pathway,proximal tubule bicarbonate reclamation and PPAR signaling pathway.Conclusions This study reveals the differential protein expression between female and male adult T.canis,providing valuable resource for developing the novel intervention strategies against T.canis infection in humans and animals,especially from the perspective of sexual development and reproduction.
