scholarly journals Plasmodium malariae infections as a cause of febrile disease in an area of high Plasmodium falciparum transmission intensity in Eastern Uganda

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniel Ayo ◽  
Bakar Odongo ◽  
Joseph Omara ◽  
Chiara Andolina ◽  
Ole Mulder ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plasmodium Falciparum ◽  
Clinical Signs ◽  
Clinical Malaria ◽  
Plasmodium Malariae ◽  
Rapid Diagnostic Tests ◽  
Case Presentation ◽  
Mild Anaemia ◽  
Clinical Consequences ◽  
History Of ◽  
Eastern Uganda

Abstract Background Plasmodium falciparum is responsible for the vast majority of (severe) clinical malaria cases in most African settings. Other Plasmodium species often go undiagnosed but may still have clinical consequences. Case presentation Here, five cases of Plasmodium malariae infections from Eastern Uganda (aged 2–39 years) are presented. These infections were all initially mistaken for P. falciparum, but Plasmodium schizonts (up to 2080/µL) were identified by microscopy. Clinical signs included history of fever and mild anaemia. Conclusion These findings highlight the importance of considering non-falciparum species as the cause of clinical malaria. In areas of intense P. falciparum transmission, where rapid diagnostic tests that detect only P. falciparum antigens are commonly used, non-falciparum malaria cases may be missed.

scholarly journals No evidence of false-negative Plasmodium falciparum rapid diagnostic results in Monrovia, Liberia

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mandella King ◽  
Alexander E. George ◽  
Pau Cisteró ◽  
Christine K. Tarr-Attia ◽  
Beatriz Arregui ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plasmodium Falciparum ◽  
False Negative ◽  
Malaria Diagnosis ◽  
Rapid Diagnostic Tests ◽  
Molecular Testing ◽  
False Negatives ◽  
Gene Deletions ◽  
History Of ◽  
Catholic Hospital ◽  
Or History

Abstract Background Malaria diagnosis in many malaria-endemic countries relies mainly on the use of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). The majority of commercial RDTs used in Africa detect the Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2). pfhrp2/3 gene deletions can therefore lead to false-negative RDT results. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of PCR-confirmed, false-negative P. falciparum RDT results in Monrovia, Liberia. Methods PfHRP2-based RDT (Paracheck Pf®) and microscopy results from 1038 individuals with fever or history of fever (n = 951) and pregnant women at first antenatal care (ANC) visit (n = 87) enrolled in the Saint Joseph’s Catholic Hospital (Monrovia) from March to July 2019 were used to assess the frequency of false-negative RDT results. True–false negatives were confirmed by detecting the presence of P. falciparum DNA by quantitative PCR in samples from individuals with discrepant RDT and microscopy results. Samples that were positive by 18S rRNA qPCR but negative by PfHRP2-RDT were subjected to multiplex qPCR assay for detection of pfhrp2 and pfhrp3. Results One-hundred and eighty-six (19.6%) and 200 (21.0%) of the 951 febrile participants had a P. falciparum-positive result by RDT and microscopy, respectively. Positivity rate increased with age and the reporting of joint pain, chills and shivers, vomiting and weakness, and decreased with the presence of coughs and nausea. The positivity rate at first ANC visit was 5.7% (n = 5) and 8% (n = 7) by RDT and microscopy, respectively. Out of 207 Plasmodium infections detected by microscopy, 22 (11%) were negative by RDT. qPCR confirmed absence of P. falciparum DNA in the 16 RDT-negative but microscopy-positive samples which were available for molecular testing. Among the 14 samples that were positive by qPCR but negative by RDT and microscopy, 3 only amplified pfldh, and among these 3 all were positive for pfhrp2 and pfhrp3. Conclusion There is no qPCR-confirmed evidence of false-negative RDT results due to pfhrp2/pfhrp3 deletions in this study conducted in Monrovia (Liberia). This indicates that these deletions are not expected to affect the performance of PfHRP2-based RDTs for the diagnosis of malaria in Liberia. Nevertheless, active surveillance for the emergence of PfHRP2 deletions is required.

scholarly journals Canine adenovirus type 1 causing neurological signs in a 5-week-old puppy

2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Samuel J. Hornsey ◽  
Hélène Philibert ◽  
Dale L. Godson ◽  
Elisabeth C. R. Snead
Keyword(s):  
Inclusion Bodies ◽  
Clinical Signs ◽  
Adenovirus Type ◽  
Intranuclear Inclusion ◽  
Case Presentation ◽  
Neurological Signs ◽  
History Of ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Timely Reminder

Abstract Background Infectious canine hepatitis is a rarely encountered disease, that is caused by Canine Adenovirus-1. Clinical signs can vary dramatically, and neurological signs are rarely seen. Neurological manifestation of this disease is rarely reported in the veterinary literature. Case presentation A 5-week-old, male entire Husky cross puppy presented for a one-day history of abnormal neurological behaviour (circling, ataxia, vocalization and obtund mentation). The puppy was euthanized shortly after presentation due to rapid deterioration. Histopathology raised concerns for Canine Adenovirus 1 (CAdV-1) based on vasculitis in the brain and intranuclear inclusion bodies in endothelial cell and hepatocytes; immunohistochemistry on brain tissue confirmed CAdV-1 infection. Conclusions This report discusses possible routes of infection and manifestations of adenovirus infections causing neurologic signs. It also provides a timely reminder that CAdV-1 should be considered a differential in unvaccinated dogs that present with neurological signs. Further studies are required to better understand the neurotrophic tendencies of this virus.

scholarly journals Large Hiatal Hernia Associated with Cameron Ulcers and Consecutive Sideropenic Anemia: Case Presentation

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (C) ◽  
pp. 167-169
Author(s):  
Zaim Gashi ◽  
Arjeta Gashi ◽  
Fadil Sherifi ◽  
Fitore Komoni
Keyword(s):  
Hiatal Hernia ◽  
Clinical Signs ◽  
Refractory Anemia ◽  
Deficiency Anemia ◽  
Case Presentation ◽  
Large Hiatal Hernia ◽  
Conservative And Operative Treatment ◽  
Retrosternal Pain ◽  
History Of ◽  
Cameron Lesions

BACKGROUND: Cameron lesions are seen in 5.2% of patients with hiatal hernia who undergo esophagogastroduodenoscopic examinations. The prevalence of Cameron lesions seems to be dependent on the size of the hernial sac, with an increased prevalence in the larger-sized sac. In about two-thirds of the cases, multiple Cameron lesions are noted rather than a solitary erosion or ulcer. AIM: The aim of this case report is to present the patient with Cameron ulcers associated with hiatal hernia. CASE PRESENTATION: Our patient presented with postprandial retrosternal pain, especially immediately after eating, vomiting, dyspnea, weight loss, fatigue, signs, and symptoms of severe hypochromic microcytic anemia without signs of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. No history of gastroesophageal disease. Colonoscopy was done and eliminate colic cause of anemia. The endoscopy showed a large hiatal hernia and linear erosions and ulcerations at the level of gastrodiaphragmatic contact (Cameron ulcers) and one non-sanguinant subcardial elipsoid ulceration. After conservative and operative treatment, there was significant clinically and laboratory improvement definitively, after 6 months. Cameron lesion is a rare cause of refractory sideropenic anemia. Diagnosis is very difficult in developing countries, where iron deficiency anemia is more common. A history of disease, clinical course, and laboratory findings are the important facts for diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Endoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis, although it is not uncommon to overlook these lesions due to their unique location. There are two modalities for the treatment of Cameron lesions: Medical or surgical, which should be individualized for each patient. By severe refractory anemia and large hiatal hernia, associated with clinical signs, surgical approach is very important.

scholarly journals Malaria Prevalence in Asymptomatic and Symptomatic Children Living in Rural, Semi-Urban and Urban Areas in Eastern Gabon.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lady Charlène Kouna ◽  
Sandrine Lydie OYEGUE LIABAGUI ◽  
Dominique Fatima VOUMBO-Matoumona ◽  
Jean Bernard LEKANA-DOUKI
Keyword(s):  
Plasmodium Falciparum ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Urban Areas ◽  
Clinical Signs ◽  
Plasmodium Malariae ◽  
Public Health Issue ◽  
Asymptomatic Children ◽  
Asymptomatic Infections ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Plasmodial Infection

Abstract Background Malaria remains a major public health issue in the world despite a decline in the disease burden. However, though symptomatic malaria is diagnosed and treated, asymptomatic infections remain poorly known and support transmission. This study assessed the prevalence of symptomatic and asymptomatic plasmodial infections in three areas in Gabon to monitor and evaluate the impact of malaria. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF). Febrile children and without fever, aged 6 months to 15 years from three localities (Franceville, Makokou, Lastoursville) in south-eastern Gabon were included in this study. The Plasmodium Spp infection was determined by microscopy and/or rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) followed by PCR according to the Snounou method. The data were recorded in Excel, and the statistical analyzes were performed using the software R version R 64x 3.5.0. Results Two thousand three hundred and eighty-one (2381) children were screened and included in this analysis. The mean age was significantly higher in asymptomatic children compared to symptomatic children. Hematological parameters varied significantly according to regions and clinical signs. The overall prevalence of Plasmodium infection was 40% (952/2381). In the urban area (Franceville) the prevalence of plasmodial infection was not significantly different between symptomatic and asymptomatic children. In contrast, a high prevalence of symptomatic plasmodial infection was found in infected children in rural and semi-rural areas. Among the three plasmodial species (Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale) identified, Plasmodium falciparum was the most widespread, and its prevalence was not significantly different between symptomatic and asymptomatic children in the three localities. In rural and semi-rural areas, a higher or lower prevalence of Plasmodium malariae was demonstrated in asymptomatic children. Conclusion This study showed that the prevalence of plasmodial infection varied according to the regions and clinical signs. The main species was Plasmodium falciparum, but in asymptomatic children the prevalence of Plasmodium malariae was high in rural areas. To help fight malaria more effectively asymptomatic infections should be taken into account and treated.

Aspergillus Spondylodiscitis After Spinal Stenosis Surgery: A Case Report

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (3 And 4) ◽  
pp. 155-160
Author(s):  
Mohsen Aghapoor ◽  
◽  
Babak Alijani Alijani ◽  
Mahsa Pakseresht-Mogharab ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Antifungal Drugs ◽  
The Body ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Lumbar Pain ◽  
Case Presentation ◽  
Delay In Diagnosis ◽  
Death Case ◽  
Therapeutic Results ◽  
History Of ◽  
Probable Diagnosis

Background and Importance: Spondylodiscitis is an inflammatory disease of the body of one or more vertebrae and intervertebral disc. The fungal etiology of this disease is rare, particularly in patients without immunodeficiency. Delay in diagnosis and treatment of this disease can lead to complications and even death. Case Presentation: A 63-year-old diabetic female patient, who had a history of spinal surgery and complaining radicular lumbar pain in both lower limbs with a probable diagnosis of spondylodiscitis, underwent partial L2 and complete L3 and L4 corpectomy and fusion. As a result of pathology from tissue biopsy specimen, Aspergillus fungi were observed. There was no evidence of immunodeficiency in the patient. The patient was treated with Itraconazole 100 mg twice a day for two months. Pain, neurological symptom, and laboratory tests improved. Conclusion: The debridement surgery coupled with antifungal drugs can lead to the best therapeutic results.

Intraocular tuberculosis, a challenge in diagnosis and treatment

2020 ◽  
Vol 3 ◽  
pp. 4
Author(s):  
Martina Larroude ◽  
Gustavo Ariel Budmann
Keyword(s):  
Developing Countries ◽  
Clinical Signs ◽  
Steady Increase ◽  
Ocular Tuberculosis ◽  
Industrial Countries ◽  
Choroidal Granuloma ◽  
History Of ◽  
And Migration ◽  
Ocular Tb

Ocular tuberculosis (TB) is an extrapulmonary tuberculous condition and has variable manifestations. The incidence of TB is still high in developing countries, and a steady increase in new cases has been observed in industrial countries as a result of the growing number of immunodeficient patients and migration from developing countries. Choroidal granuloma is a rare and atypical location of TB. We present a case of a presumptive choroidal granuloma. This case exposes that diagnosis can be remarkably challenging when there is no history of pulmonary TB. The recognition of clinical signs of ocular TB is extremely important since it provides a clinical pathway toward tailored investigations and decision making for initiating anti-TB therapy and to ensure a close follow-up to detect the development of any complication.

An Obscure Colon Dilatation and its Underlying Cause: Case Report and Literature Review

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
Anton Stift ◽  
Kerstin Wimmer ◽  
Felix Harpain ◽  
Katharina Wöran ◽  
Thomas Mang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Case Report ◽  
Sigmoid Colon ◽  
Immunohistochemical Staining ◽  
Late Onset ◽  
Hirschsprung Disease ◽  
Endoscopic Examination ◽  
Case Presentation ◽  
Idiopathic Megacolon ◽  
History Of ◽  
Cells Of Cajal

Introduction: Congenital as well as acquired diseases may be responsible for the development of a megacolon. In adult patients, Clostridium difficile associated infection as well as late-onset of Morbus Hirschsprung disease are known to cause a megacolon. In addition, malignant as well as benign colorectal strictures may lead to intestinal dilatation. In case of an idiopathic megacolon, the underlying cause remains unclear. Case Presentation: We describe the case of a 44-year-old male patient suffering from a long history of chronic constipation. He presented himself with an obscurely dilated large intestine with bowel loops up to 17 centimeters in diameter. Radiological as well as endoscopic examination gave evidence of a spastic process in the sigmoid colon. The patient was treated with a subtotal colectomy and the intraoperative findings revealed a stenotic stricture in the sigmoid colon. Since the histological examination did not find a conclusive reason for the functional stenosis, an immunohistochemical staining was advised. This showed a decrease in interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in the stenotic part of the sigmoid colon. Discussion: This case report describes a patient with an idiopathic megacolon, where the underlying cause remained unclear until an immunohistochemical staining of the stenotic colon showed a substantial decrease of ICCs. Various pathologies leading to a megacolon are reviewed and discussed.

Fever in the returning traveller: Dual infection with SARS-CoV-2 and Plasmodium falciparum malaria

2020 ◽  
pp. 105-108
Author(s):  
MA Parker ◽  
E Nell ◽  
A Mowlana ◽  
MS Moolla ◽  
S Karamchand ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plasmodium Falciparum ◽  
Falciparum Malaria ◽  
Clinical Course ◽  
Febrile Illness ◽  
Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria ◽  
Dual Infection ◽  
Pneumocystis Pneumonia ◽  
Case Presentation ◽  
Presenting Symptoms ◽  
Uncomplicated Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria

Background: More than 90% of the global 400 000 annual malaria deaths occur in Africa. The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in more than 830 000 deaths in its first 10 months. Case presentation: This case describes a patient who had travelled from Mozambique to Cape Town, presented with a mild febrile illness, and was diagnosed with both COVID-19 and uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection. She responded well to malaria treatment and had an uneventful COVID-19 admission. Her blood smear showed a low malaria parasitaemia and a relatively high gametocyte load. Conclusion: We postulate that her clinical course and abnormal smear could well be due to reciprocal disease-modifying effects of the infections. The presenting symptoms of COVID-19 may mimic endemic infectious diseases including malaria, tuberculosis, pneumocystis pneumonia and influenza thus there is a need for clinical vigilance to identify and treat such co-infections.

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