Impact of Enterobius vermicularis infection on biochemical parameters in the blood of children in Erbil Province, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Enterobius vermicularis is an intestinal helminthic parasite that causes a gastrointestinal infection called enterobiasis. Children are more susceptible to infection than adults. The current study aimed to explore the prevalence of E. vermicularis infection among children in Erbil City concerning demographic factors and certain blood parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted on 505 children (3-10 years). Cellophane tape samples and blood samples were taken from participants. The cellophane tape samples were examined microscopically, whereas blood samples were examined using the auto-analyzer and Cobas. Results: The overall prevalence of E. vermicularis infection was 27.13%, and the infection rate was non-significantly (P = 0.371) higher in females (28.85%) than in males (25.31%). The incidence of enterobiasis was directly proportional to family size. This study demonstrated that the mean serum total protein and iron levels were significantly decreased in infected children, while other trace element levels were not significantly affected. Conclusions: The prevalence of E. vermicularis is relatively lower than that in previous studies. Serum total protein and iron levels significantly decreased in the enterobiasis-positive group.

Haematological and Demographic Study in Children Infected with Enterobiasis in Al Diwaniyah Province, Iraq

“…Serum iron declined significantly in E. vermicularis infected group as compared to non-infected group. The decrease in serum iron concentrations is likely because of appetite loss that may be a result of E. vermicularis infection [21]. This result is similar to that reported by others [35,36].…”

“…There have been many studies that reported the epidemiological and demographic status of E. vermicularis among the population from different parts of Iraq [16][17][18]. In addition, some other investigators focused on enterobiasis and its relation to enuresis, anaemia, biochemical parameters of the blood, and vitamin deficiencies [19][20][21]. Although several studies were achieved regarding E. vermicularis, updating our knowledge is still needed about its potential influence on the haematological, nutritional status, and immunological status of the host infected with E. vermicularis.…”

Epidemiological Profile and Spatial Patterns of Enterobiasis in Children Aged 3–9 Years in China from 2016 to 2020

“…Enterobiasis caused by Enterobius vermicularis infection is widely distributed around the world [ 1 , 2 ]. Transmission usually occurs among children in childcare agencies and kindergartens [ 3 , 4 , 5 ]. The main symptoms of enterobiasis include perianal skin itching, night terrors, grinding of teeth, irritability, anorexia and emaciation, but it may also cause appendicitis and urogenital system inflammation due to ectopic parasitism [ 6 , 7 ].…”

Study of the role of IQ in children with Enterobius vermicularis infestation compared to healthy children

“…Enterobius vermicularis (needle worm, thread worm or chair worm) is one of the nematode worms that has more geographical distribution than other worms [1]. It is estimated that at least 200 million people worldwide, especially children, are infected each year [2]. The prevalence of E. vermicularis infestation is associated with poor environmental hygiene, inadequate personal hygiene, and contaminated food [3].…”

“…Numerous studies have been performed on the relationship between the prevalence of E. vermicularis in children with sex, age, demographic and geographical factors, blood and immunological factors [2]. However, psychological and IQ tests in children have not been performed.…”