| Abstract: | The present study aimed at measuring seropositivities for infection by
Ascaris suum and Toxocara canis using the
excretory/secretory (E/S) antigens from Ascaris suum (AES) and
Toxocara canis (TES) within an indigenous population. In
addition, quantification of cytokine expressions in peripheral blood cells was
determined. A total of 50 Warao indigenous were included; of which 43 were adults and
seven children. In adults, 44.1% were seropositive for both parasites; whereas
children had only seropositivity to one or the other helminth. For ascariosis, the
percentage of AES seropositivity in adults and children was high; 23.3% and 57.1%,
respectively. While that for toxocariosis, the percentage of TES seropositivity in
adults and children was low; 9.3% and 14.3%, respectively. The percentage of
seronegativity was comparable for AES and TES antigens in adults (27.9%) and children
(28.6%). When positive sera were analyzed by Western blotting technique using AES
antigens; three bands of 97.2, 193.6 and 200.2 kDas were mostly recognized. When the
TES antigens were used, nine major bands were mostly identified; 47.4, 52.2, 84.9,
98.2, 119.1, 131.3, 175.6, 184.4 and 193.6 kDas. Stool examinations showed that
Blastocystis hominis, Hymenolepis nana and
Entamoeba coli were the most commonly observed intestinal
parasites. Quantification of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, TGF-β, TNF-α, IL-10 and
IL-4 expressions showed that there was only a significant increased expression of
IL-4 in indigenous with TES seropositivity (p < 0.002).
Ascaris and Toxocara seropositivity was
prevalent among Warao indigenous. |
