Prevalence of intestinal parasites among patients referred to laboratories in Masjed Soleiman city, Khuzestan Province

Background and Aims: Gastrointestinal parasites are worldwide in distribution; the developing countries are more prone to parasitic diseases causing important public health concerns. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among patients referred to the laboratories of Masjed Soleiman city, Khuzestan Province in the first half of 2013. Materials and Methods : In a cross-sectional study during 6 months, a total of 6062 stool samples from patients referred to the laboratories were tested. Stool examinations were performed by direct method and Scotch tape test for detection of protozoa and helminthes infection, respectively. All stages of this study, was in conformity by the ethical principles. Results : Overall, the prevalence of intestinal parasites was 13.92% (844 cases). Among 6062 samples 14.84% of men and 13% female were infected. Majority of patients were infected by Giardia lamblia (54.98%), Entamoeba coli (20.14%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica (14.33%) Blastocystis hominis (3.55%) and Trichomonas (0.59%). While Hymenolepis nana (0.47%) and Enterobius vermicular (2.36%) are exhibited the minimum prevalence. The highest prevalence was seen in summer and July. Statistically there was a significant correlation between sex and infection rate (P<0.05). Conclusion: The notable finding of this study is the high prevalence of G. lamblia and E. coli, which may be derived from poor personal hygiene, unsanitary wastewater disposal, and use of contaminated water and food. Key words: Intestinal Parasites, Prevalence, Laboratory, Masjed Soleiman