J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226920
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Study on the diversity of freshwater leeches especially those associated with molluscs have been of great interest. During such a course of study several snails were collected from various regions of Manipur and examined...Study on the diversity of freshwater leeches especially those associated with molluscs have been of great interest. During such a course of study several snails were collected from various regions of Manipur and examined for the presence of leeches. Two known species of aquatic leech of the genus of the family Glossiphonidae were recovered. having longitudinal stripes, gonopore location at 28-29 annuli, last crop caeca with 4 secondary branches and bigger size of paramedian and paralateral papillae have been redescribed. , had been reported as first record from India. The characters included presence of small lanceolate body, dorsum with 18 transverse black stripes, dorsal median line and posterior sucker diameter equivalent to the maximum body width. New sequence of mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) had been generated for
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226919
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The present investigation was conducted to determine the occurrence and association of external parasites in freshwater fish across four different seasons of 2020 to 2022. The primary objective was to ascertain the preva...The present investigation was conducted to determine the occurrence and association of external parasites in freshwater fish across four different seasons of 2020 to 2022. The primary objective was to ascertain the prevalence of ectoparasites in freshwater fish populations and explore the relationship between water quality parameters and the parasitic prevalence of three different sampling sites. Notable species observed included and The research indicates that ciliate parasites exhibit a higher level of infection intensity. The peak ectoparasitic infestation of was documented during the summer season (March to May), 5.65% in Song River while the lowest infection rates were observed during the monsoon season (June to August) 0.67% in Khoh River. Whereas the highest infection rate of , This suggests temperature play a significant role in the transmission of infections. This research also emphasizes the relationship between the occurrence of parasitic infestations and changes in water temperature throughout the winter, summer, monsoon, and autumn seasons.
Hussain S, Islam A, Islam Z
… +3 more, Ahmad F, Jaiswal K, Mishra S
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226918
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UNLABELLED: Even though the extreme cold is detrimental to the development and survival of gastrointestinal nematodes, is an important genus in terms of disease and production loss, as it requires a chilling temperature...UNLABELLED: Even though the extreme cold is detrimental to the development and survival of gastrointestinal nematodes, is an important genus in terms of disease and production loss, as it requires a chilling temperature for its development. This is the first cross-sectional study that was carried out to investigate the larval morphology, prevalence, and intensity of infection, and the associated risk factors of in sheep kept under the traditional husbandry system in the district Kargil, a Trans-Himalayan region of India, from March 2021 to February 2023. A total of 814 faecal samples (Year 1- 404; Year 2- 410) were examined. The morphology and micrometry study of eggs was conducted for the prevalence, while the parasite burden was determined using the modified McMaster technique. A larval morphology and micrometry study was conducted to identify species.Larval culture reports revealed that the differential larval count of were 2.89% in year 1 and 2.6% in year 2 with a range of (0-8%) and (0-10%) respectively. The mean level of infection was recorded below 80 eggs per gram [EPG]. An overall 42.5% in year 1 and 40% in year 2 were found to be infected with . Season, sex, age, and breed were found to be relevant major risk factors that influenced the prevalence of parasites. The prevalence of was significantly ( < 0.05) associated with seasons, age groups, and different breeds but not with gender (sex) ( > 0.05). Thus, it may be concluded that the purpose of the current study is not only to assess the widespreadness of infection but also to monitor and forecast future outbreaks of this important genus. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: The morphology study based on egg, larvae revealed that the Nematodirus spp. inhabited in the sheep raised in Kargil Ladakh, India. Larval culture findings revealed the two species of Nematodirus, Nematodirus spathiger and Nematodirus filicollis. Overall: Nematodirus spp. was found 42.5% in year 1 and 40% in year 2.The mean level of infection was recorded below 80 eggs per gram (EPG). Maximum incidence of infection found in spring and minimum in summer.Season, sex, age and breed are the various risk factors that influence the prevalence of Nematodirus spp. in sheep of Kargil Ladakh.
Simin A, Jahangiri F, Abbas ZN
… +4 more, Sarkhani H, Ghaffarifar MA, Hamidianfar N, Ghaffarifar F
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226917
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mites, particularly and , are common ectoparasites residing in human pilosebaceous units, often implicated in dermatological and ocular conditions such as rosacea, blepharitis, and demodicosis. Conventional treatments i...mites, particularly and , are common ectoparasites residing in human pilosebaceous units, often implicated in dermatological and ocular conditions such as rosacea, blepharitis, and demodicosis. Conventional treatments include topical acaricides such as ivermectin, permethrin, and metronidazole; however, these agents may be associated with limited efficacy, resistance, and adverse effects. Consequently, there has been growing scientific interest in exploring alternative therapies derived from natural sources, particularly essential oils and herbal extracts with known acaricidal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The goal of this review was to investigate the effects of herbal extracts and essential oils on spp. Mites in skin and hair, as well as how these parasites operate and what impact they have on people's health. parasites are small arthropods that reside on the outer surface of the skin and often have no specific clinical symptoms. The main cause of disease in humans is two types of mites, and . Currently, chemical drugs that target usually have side effects and low efficacy. However, research has shown that plant extracts and essential oils such as tea tree oil have acceptable effects on the treatment of parasites and have fewer side effects. Therefore, applying these techniques may be a more suitable choice for treating demodicosis.
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226915
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Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites of significant veterinary and public health importance, transmitting a wide array of zoonotic pathogens to both animals and humans. Understanding tick infestation patterns in differe...Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites of significant veterinary and public health importance, transmitting a wide array of zoonotic pathogens to both animals and humans. Understanding tick infestation patterns in different regions is crucial for effective control and prevention strategies. This study aimed to assess and compare tick infestations in household dogs across two regions in Nigeria, Minna (Niger State) and Ibadan (Oyo State), to evaluate regional variations in tick intensity and their zoonotic implications. A total of 392 dogs were sampled, yielding 1,385 ticks, with being the most prevalent species (91.4%), followed by sp. (5.4%) and sp. (3.2%). Younger dogs (< 1 year) harbored most ticks, with infestation patterns significantly associated with the dog's age (χ = 32.512, p < 0.001), sex and household roles, and management practices. Dogs in Ibadan exhibited a higher mean tick intensity (7.98) compared to Minna (1.55), as confirmed by the Mann-Whitney U test (U = 0.0, p < 0.001). Infestation rates also varied by household roles and management practices; caged dogs in Ibadan were predominantly infested with and sp., while free-range dogs in Minna were more commonly infested with sp. The zoonotic risks associated with tick-borne pathogens, including sp and sp, highlight the urgent need for integrated tick control strategies. These should include regular acaricide application, improved dog management practices, and public health campaigns to raise awareness of zoonotic risks. This study provides critical insights into the regional dynamics of tick infestation and offers recommendations for mitigating the public health burden of tick-borne diseases in Nigeria.
Saadatmand M, Khalaf AK, Azadbakht F
… +2 more, Özyurt HC, Golabi Azad S
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226914
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Now, numerous synthetic medications are available for managing giardiasis, such as metronidazole, furazolidone, and tinidazole. These pharmaceuticals are associated with various adverse effects. The present experimental...Now, numerous synthetic medications are available for managing giardiasis, such as metronidazole, furazolidone, and tinidazole. These pharmaceuticals are associated with various adverse effects. The present experimental investigation aims to assess the in vitro in vivo effects of silver nanoparticles (SNP) synthesized extract against . The precipitation technique was utilized for the eco-friendly synthesis of SNP by reducing silver ions. An in vitro study was conducted on cysts and trophozoites following exposure to varying concentrations of SNP (10-200 µg/mL) for durations ranging from 10 to 360 min. The impact of SNP on trophozoite plasma membrane integrity and its cytotoxic effects on both normal and colon cancer cells were evaluated. In the subsequent in vivo experiment, BALB/c mice infected with were administered SNP at doses of 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg/day for a duration of one week. Stool examinations were conducted on the 8th day post-infection to assess the presence of Giardia cysts and determine the reduction rate. The study found that the size of synthesized SNP ranged from 10 to 90 nm, with the highest concentration of particles falling within the 35-45 nm range. The administration of SNP significantly elevated the mortality rate of cysts in a dose-dependent manner. Specifically, at concentrations of 100 and 200 μg/mL, SNP effectively eradicated cysts after 120 and 240 h, respectively. In an in vivo setting, the treatment of infected mice with SNP at doses of 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg likewise led to a dose-dependent reduction in the viability of cysts. Exposing trophozoites to SNP led to a dose-dependent elevation in the permeability of trophozoite plasma membranes. The 50% cytotoxic concentrations (CC50) values of SNP for colon cancer and normal cell lines were measured at 361.7 μg/mL and 769.9 μg/mL, respectively. The calculated selectivity index value, which exceeds 2 (2.13), suggests that the SNP demonstrates a higher safety profile for normal cells compared to cancer cells. The experimental investigation demonstrated that SNP produced using exhibited significant anti- activity both in laboratory settings (in vitro) and in living organisms (in vivo), suggesting its potential as a treatment for infections. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action and thoroughly evaluate the toxicity profile of this type of SNP.
Boukert R, Foughali AA, Saidj D
… +3 more, Kalthoum S, Achour S, Sahraoui N
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226913
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The aim of this study was to estimate both the number and annual incidences of human cutaneous leishmaniasis in Algeria over a ten-year period (2010-2019). A retrospective study was conducted using data from all clinical...The aim of this study was to estimate both the number and annual incidences of human cutaneous leishmaniasis in Algeria over a ten-year period (2010-2019). A retrospective study was conducted using data from all clinically officially notified cases reported between 2010 and 2019. These cases were obtained from the annual reports of the National Institute of Public Health, Algeria. The study showed that 93,838 cases of human cutaneous leishmaniasis were recorded in Algeria. M'Sila reported the highest number of cutaneous leishmaniasis cases during this period (28,836), followed by Biskra (20,549). In contrast, the lowest numbers of cases were registered in Mostaganem (2). Cutaneous leishmaniasis cases were recorded in all 48 provinces of Algeria. The highest number of cutaneous leishmaniasis cases was recorded in 2010, totaling 21,052. However, the lowest number of cases was reported in 2012, with only 57 cases. The peak annual incidence rate, 59.77 per 100,000 humans was recorded in 2010. In the same year, Biskra had the highest annual incidence rate of human cutaneous leishmaniasis (817.17). Conversely, the lowest annual incidence rate was recorded in 2012, at 0.16 per 100,000 humans. In 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2014, Biskra registered the highest annual incidence rates, with 817.17, 540.99, 289.65, and 141.39 per 100,000 humans, respectively. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is endemic in many provinces of Algeria. To our knowledge, this is the first retrospective study of cutaneous leishmaniasis covering all 48 provinces of Algeria during the period 2010-2019.
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226912
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Giardia intestinalis is a common protozoan parasite affecting both humans and animals. In livestock, infections can impact growth and productivity. To characterize Giardia infections in diarrheal cattle and assess associ...Giardia intestinalis is a common protozoan parasite affecting both humans and animals. In livestock, infections can impact growth and productivity. To characterize Giardia infections in diarrheal cattle and assess associated physiological and genetic changes. One hundred calves (80 males, 20 females) from Faiyum Governorate were examined. Fecal and blood samples were analyzed for Giardia detection, oxidative stress markers, and immune gene expression. The TPI gene was sequenced for genetic characterization. In this study, 80 males and 20 females from a severely diarrheal cattle herd from the Faiyum Governorate were examined between January 2022 and May 2022 in order to characterize intestinal protozoa that caused severe diarrhea in cattle herds and determine their impact on physiological and immunological parameters. The blood of the infected animals was analyzed for oxidative stress and the infected intestine was examined for gene expression analysis to evaluate the cell-mediated appraisal. Fecal examination of severe diarrheic cattle revealed the presence of () trophozoites in 15 (15%) of 100 cattle analyzed. A microscopic examination of diarrheic-stained fecal smears with Giemsa revealed the presence of . The TPI gene of the present parasite recognized morphologically as was positively amplified using the pairs primers of the nested PCR. The PCR product was then directly sequenced and generated 505 bp. With the accession number OP441058, this sequence was added to the GenBank database. Giardia intestinalis causes significant physiological and immunological changes in calves, necessitating early detection and control.
Ndayikengurukiye E, Ntirandekura JB, Nyabongo L
… +2 more, Amore A, McOdimba F
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226911
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Bovine Babesiosis is one of the tick-borne diseases (TBD) caused by and is transmitted by tick vectors of the genus . The disease causes significant economic loses to livestock farmers and it has been reported to be end...Bovine Babesiosis is one of the tick-borne diseases (TBD) caused by and is transmitted by tick vectors of the genus . The disease causes significant economic loses to livestock farmers and it has been reported to be endemic in many countries of East African region including Burundi. A recent study conducted in Burundi showed that the vectors of the disease are present in different agro-ecological zones. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Imbo region to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with bovine babesiosis. A total of 400 blood samples drawn from cattle were collected from either jugular or coccinea vein. Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nPCR) assay based on rhoptry associated protein-1a (, and spherical body protein-4 ( was used for pathogen detection and the resulting data was used to determine the risk factors using the R statistical software. Gene sequences and the genetic characterization were determined for selected positive samples. Out of a total of 400 samples, 5.50% (3.3-7.8, 95% CI) were found to be infected with where 4.25% (2.3-6.2, 95% CI) and 1.25% (0.2-2.3, 95% CI) were infected with and respectively. Age, sex, tick infestation, grazing system, and origin (commune) were found to be significantly associated with bovine babesiosis ( value < 0.05). The sequence analysis revealed that different genotypes of and are present in the Imbo region and these results will help the competent authorities to design an effective strategy for the control of tick-borne diseases to reduce the economic losses causes by the diseases.
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226910
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Paediatric malaria is a major cause of child mortality in Nigeria. Despite the numerous antimalaria interventions, paediatric malaria remains a major public health concern in the country. An understanding of the geograph...Paediatric malaria is a major cause of child mortality in Nigeria. Despite the numerous antimalaria interventions, paediatric malaria remains a major public health concern in the country. An understanding of the geographic pattern of paediatric malaria in the country would therefore assist policymakers and the government in making informed decisions on malaria elimination. This study aimed to examine the geographic pattern of paediatric malaria in Nigeria, and identify their climatic, demographic, environmental, and socio-economic drivers. Data used in this study were from published sources. Spatial analytical techniques including Global Moran's I and Getis-Ord Gi* were used to determine the degree of spatial clustering of paediatric malaria and identify hotspot regions for paediatric malaria in each year. We found that paediatric malaria in Nigeria significantly clustered in space. Hotspots were identified in different areas across the study periods while coldspots were generally found in the southwest corner of Nigeria. Stepwise linear regression analysis identified poverty (R = 0.43.5) as the dominant predictor of paediatric malaria in Nigeria. The study concludes that free anti-malaria treatment for children and poverty reduction may be required to reduce the malaria burden in Nigeria.
Sakunthala L, Rajakaruna RS, Ellepola G
… +1 more, Pathirana NUK
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226909
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Snail-borne trematodiases remain an underrecognized public health concern in Sri Lanka. From May to December 2024, this study assessed the diversity and prevalence of cercarial emergence in freshwater snails from the Mah...Snail-borne trematodiases remain an underrecognized public health concern in Sri Lanka. From May to December 2024, this study assessed the diversity and prevalence of cercarial emergence in freshwater snails from the Maha Oya River and examined environmental and anthropogenic factors influencing infection patterns. A total of four snail species were collected monthly across six sites, with being the most abundant (73.9%) followed by (19.7%). Cercarial emergence was observed only in and , with three morphotypes identified: pleurolophocercous, furcocercous, and gymnocephalous. Identifications of both snails and cercariae were based solely on morphology; no molecular confirmation was performed. The overall prevalence was 7.1%, highest in , while no cercariae were detected in or . Water quality measurements (e.g., dissolved oxygen, conductivity, total dissolved solids) and human activity records (e.g., solid waste dumping, washing clothes, fishing) were analyzed using redundancy analysis (RDA), showing that degraded water conditions and elevated anthropogenic activities were significantly associated with higher cercarial prevalence, and overall snail abundance was positively correlated with these factors. Although seasonal variation was limited, furcocercous cercariae (morphologically consistent with schistosomes) were present at sites with frequent human-water contact, highlighting potential transmission risks. These findings emphasize the links between environmental degradation, human behavior, and parasitic risk, underscoring the need for integrated strategies to manage snail-borne diseases and safeguard freshwater health in tropical ecosystems.
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226908
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UNLABELLED: Malaria is a major public health problem, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and other developing countries, where majority of malaria cases and deaths occur. This study developed a machine learning (ML) model...UNLABELLED: Malaria is a major public health problem, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and other developing countries, where majority of malaria cases and deaths occur. This study developed a machine learning (ML) model to accurately diagnose malaria in rural communities in Nigeria, based on patients' symptoms and other clinical information, using low-cost and readily available diagnostic tools. The model was trained on a 2020 Nigerian Demographic and Health Surveys Program Geospatial Covariate datasets containing clinical information of patients in Nigeria. ML approaches were preferred over traditional statistical methods due to their ability to handle high-dimensional, non-linear relationships and interactions among a diverse set of variables. Regression based-algorithms were used to identify and predict patterns as a continuous outcome allowing finer-grained spatial and demographic insights than binary classification would predict. The models underwent rigorous validation using cross validation and holdout testing to assess generalizability and minimize overfitting. The closeness of the predicted malaria incidence scores and the experimental scores indicates the robustness of the ML model. The coefficient determination scores of random forest regressor (RFR), multiple linear regression, and ridge models were 0.9937, 0.9916, and 0.9924 respectively for the test set. This demonstrates the competence of the models' prediction abilities. The RFR model's learning curve results showed a recurring pattern. The model's performance on the test dataset consistently improved as the volume of data increased. By shifting from reactive diagnostics to proactive risk prediction, health authorities can more effectively allocate resources, improve intervention timing, and reach underserved rural communities with precision. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12639-025-01880-6.
Abaka-Yawson A, Squire DS, Kpene GE
… +3 more, Boachie J, Bawua SA, Arko-Mensah J
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226907
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Intestinal parasites are known to cause changes in blood count parameters and immunological markers among various populations. Prison inmates often have poor living conditions and limited access to healthcare, thus infec...Intestinal parasites are known to cause changes in blood count parameters and immunological markers among various populations. Prison inmates often have poor living conditions and limited access to healthcare, thus infections with intestinal parasites could negatively impact on their overall health and wellbeing. This study assessed the effects of intestinal parasitic infections on the haemato-immunological profile of prison inmates in Southern Ghana. A cross-sectional study using stratified sampling technique was conducted among 347 male prison inmates in three major prisons in Southern Ghana, with 44 from Ho Central prison, 257 from Nsawam Medium Security prison and 46 from Sekondi Central prison. Stool samples obtained from inmates were first concentrated using formol-ether, then stained with the modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique to determine the presence of intestinal parasites. Additionally, venous blood was drawn into EDTA tubes from each participant and analysed for full blood count parameters using an automated haematology analyser, SYSMEX XN-550. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were determined by ELISA. The predominant intestinal parasites identified in the study were and which accounted for 46.6% and 18.5% of all infections identified. Compared to uninfected individuals, there was a positive relationship between intestinal parasitic infection and total white blood cell count (5.38 (3.60) vs. 4.40 (2.41) 10/L; = 0.022), eosinophils (0.30(0.51) vs. 0.25(0.34) 10/L; = 0.028) and basophil (0.05(0.04) vs. 0.04(0.02) 10/L; = 0.044) respectively. In addition, IgE ( < 0.001) and IL-10 ( = 0.008) levels were significantly higher among infected inmates. After adjusting for confounders, total white blood cell count ( = 0.003) and eosinophil count ( = 0.032) were associated with intestinal parasitic infection status. Intestinal parasitic infection was associated with leukocytosis and eosinophilia as well as elevated IgE and IL-10 levels among prison inmates. Future trials should evaluate the impact of regular deworming and nutritional supplementation on haematological and immunological outcomes.
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226906
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The global efforts to eliminate malaria infection are continuing. Certain countries such as Belize and Cabo Verde were declared free status and Iran ended up in the elimination phase, but imported and subsequent autochth...The global efforts to eliminate malaria infection are continuing. Certain countries such as Belize and Cabo Verde were declared free status and Iran ended up in the elimination phase, but imported and subsequent autochthonous cases pose a public health challenge. Primary data on autochthonous and imported malaria were collected from Hormozgan province, Iran from CDC surveillance and control programmes between April 2018 and May 2023. Health professionals entered the data of malaria patients into Microsoft Excel and separated them into two categories: public data (demographic and socioeconomic) and clinical symptoms relevant to the local community, such as age, sex, nationality, occupation, residential status, and parasite species. The data was organized and statistical analyses were done using SPSS. The study included 289 cases (including imported and autochthonous cases): 87.5% male, and 12.5% female; Most of them were 11-29 years old. Vivax malaria was found in 78.9% of the total malaria cases. Afghans (imported) represented 56.7%, Pakistanis (imported) 30.8% and Iranians (autochthonous) 12.5%. In 2023, the number of cases reached its peak, especially in Jask County. Asymptomatic cases accounted for 45.25%, and the majority were treated. Imported malaria significantly contribute to maintenance of malaria transmission among native populations and has the potential to increase autochthonous malaria. The issue of illegal entry and unauthorized immigration demand systemic solutions through formal legal processes, such as legalization or deportation. There is a requirement to develop cost-effective approach, including active surveillance, rapid diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for imported and asymptomatic cases.
Aydin Y, Ulas AB, Eren S
… +6 more, Ozturk G, Kasali K, Aksoy Y, Karadag MK, Senocak E, Colak A
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226905
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The aim of this study was to investigate hydatid cysts observed in unusual localizations of the body without liver and lung involvement. A single-center retrospective study was conducted between 2000 and 2024, evaluating...The aim of this study was to investigate hydatid cysts observed in unusual localizations of the body without liver and lung involvement. A single-center retrospective study was conducted between 2000 and 2024, evaluating a total of 173 cases of hydatid cysts located in uncommon regions of the body, excluding liver and lung involvement. Unusual hydatid cysts accounted for 4.8% (173/3623) of all hydatid cysts. Among the cases, 89 (51.4%) were female and 84 (48.6%) were male. The cohort included 49 children (≤ 18 years, 28.3%) and 124 adults (> 18 years, 71.7%), with a mean age of 33.7 ± 20.2 years (range: 5-85 years). The distribution of hydatid cysts included the spleen in 34 cases (19.7%), kidney in 27 (15.6%), intracranial in 24 (13.9%), muscle in 23 (13.3%), bone in 15 (8.7%), mediastinum in 10 (5.8%), pelvic space in 9 (5.2%), cardiac in 8 (4.6%), subcutaneous and soft tissue in 6 (3.5%), omentum in 6 (3.5%), ovarian fossa in 3 (1.7%), diaphragm in 3 (1.7%), pancreas in 3 (1.7%), uterine wall in 1 (0.6%), retroperitoneal space in 1 (0.6%), nasal cavity in 1 (0.6%), and thyroid in 1 (0.6%). Primary surgical treatment was applied to 144 cases (83.2%). Primary hydatid cysts are less common in other parts of the body without involvement of the liver and lungs. Surgical resection remains the preferred treatment method for these cases, where diagnosis can be challenging.
Aravind M, Jeeva K, Sundar STB
… +2 more, Rajesh Kumar K, Richard Jagatheesan PN
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226904
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In the present study 32 wild elephants across different forest ranges of the Nilgiris were screened for the presence of flukes during necropsy from December 2023 to November 2024, out of which only one elephant was found...In the present study 32 wild elephants across different forest ranges of the Nilgiris were screened for the presence of flukes during necropsy from December 2023 to November 2024, out of which only one elephant was found to be infected with flukes. The occurrence of flukes in liver and flukes in the caecum and colon of a Thirty five year old, free ranging male elephant () is reported. The infected elephant harboured a total of 22 numbers of . in the liver and 487 numbers of . flukes in the caecum and colon. Morphologically . flukes were flat with ill-defined cephalic end armed with numerous minute dermal spines at both dorsal and ventral surfaces. Oral sucker was terminal and small whereas ventral sucker was large and well forward. Intestinal caeca were branched occupying nearly the whole extent of the body internally. Body of . flukes were tapering anteriorly and rounded posteriorly with oral pouches and wavy intestinal caeca. The testes were deeply lobed, placed side by side and ovary was single, posterior to testes. The ventral sucker was subterminal. Liver of the elephant infected with was enlarged, congested, hemorrhagic and bile tracts were filled with a dark yellowish deposition with numerous immature and mature flukes present inside the liver. Though numerous . flukes were found in the caecum and colon, no pathological lesions were appreciable. The present observations on coinfection of and in a free ranging wild elephant seems to be the first report of its kind and will be important to map the status of fluke infections in wild elephants and to frame control strategies.
Rajendran K, Apparasamy D, Kumar NK
… +4 more, Ahmed U, Thevanayagam H, Othman MA, Anwar A
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226903
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, a free-living waterborne amoeba, causes fatal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) when it enters the brain through the nose. Treatment options are limited due to a lack of FDA-approved drugs and poor blood-brain..., a free-living waterborne amoeba, causes fatal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) when it enters the brain through the nose. Treatment options are limited due to a lack of FDA-approved drugs and poor blood-brain barrier penetration. Silver nanoparticles exhibit potent antiamoebic properties and can enhance the efficacy of therapeutic agents at specific biological targets. Natural folk remedies have long been utilised in disease treatment, with phytochemicals from various plants demonstrating significant amoebicidal properties. These bioactive compounds offer potential therapeutic benefits against amoebic infections. In this study, malabaricones A, B, and C, extracted from Myristica cinnamomea, were conjugated with silver nanoparticles (AgNO) to determine their effects on PAM infection. These AgNPs coated with malabaricones (AgNPs-Mal-A, B, C) were characterised by using UV-visible spectrophotometry and gave a maximum absorbance at 422, 436, and 457 nm, while high-resolution transmission electron microscopy showed the nanoconjugates were regular and rounded in shape, respectively. These nanoconjugates were evaluated against trophozoites of . All three nanoconjugates showed potent activity; however, based on IC₅₀ values, Mal A-AgNPs demonstrated the highest potency, followed by Mal B-AgNPs and Mal C-AgNPs. While Mal C-AgNPs exhibited stronger effects at higher concentrations, its overall potency appears lower compared to Mal A-AgNPs. The morphological changes were recorded via scanning electron microscopy, while viability was illustrated via light microscopy. All nanoconjugates significantly reduced the host cell cytopathogenicity but showed moderate toxicity at lower concentrations against HaCaT cells. The results indicate that all three tested nanoconjugates show potential as effective alternative therapeutic agents against infections.
El-Siefy AM, Ibraheem MH, Ibrahim SD
… +1 more, Abd El-Kareem SG
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226902
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Previous studies revealed a systematic misunderstanding on the nomenclature of , where two different species shared the same scientific name: Meyer, 1932 and . Mohamadain, 1989. sp. of the present study were collected...Previous studies revealed a systematic misunderstanding on the nomenclature of , where two different species shared the same scientific name: Meyer, 1932 and . Mohamadain, 1989. sp. of the present study were collected from the intestine of (Linnaeus) in Egypt, and examined using scanning electron microscopy and ITS Ribosomal RNA analysis. The results revealed specific characteristics concerning the number and arrangement of proboscis hooks, body spination in the adult and, for the first time, in the juvenile. The findings of the present parasite were compared with the previously described related species including (Meyer 1932) (previously identified as Meyer, 1932). The presence of trunk spines, specific proboscis hooks number, double-walled proboscis receptacle, leminci shorter than receptacle, tubular cement glands and egg shape definitively exclude our specimen from being , as this genus has different characters. Moreover, the results obtained from the molecular analysis confirmed the genetic difference. Further studies are needed to verify if the present specimen is a new species. A single worm has been found hyperparasitized by clusters of rod-shaped bacteria attaching to the tegument; this may be considered as the first record of bacterial hyperparasitism and their associated pathology on Acanthocephala. Granulomatous lesions and some necrosis associated with tegumental disintegration have been encountered. Future collaborative research is suggested that leads to the potential use of bacteria as a means of biological control to Acanthocephalan infections.
Chakraborty P, Behera SK, Sarkar S
… +2 more, Prasad H, Rajesh JB
J Parasit Dis
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42226901
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A 1.5-year-old female Spitz dog was presented with a sudden onset of inappetence, weakness, anemia, and hemoglobinuria persisting for two days. The dog had a prior history of tick infestation. A thorough physical examina...A 1.5-year-old female Spitz dog was presented with a sudden onset of inappetence, weakness, anemia, and hemoglobinuria persisting for two days. The dog had a prior history of tick infestation. A thorough physical examination revealed pyrexia, lymphadenopathy, pale conjunctival and gingival mucous membranes, and a normal capillary refill time. Microscopic analysis of a Giemsa-stained peripheral blood smear identified the presence of , which was further confirmed through PCR. Hematological analysis revealed severe anemia, neutropenia, eosinophilia, lymphocytosis, and thrombocytopenia. Serum biochemistry indicated significant hypoglycemia, hypoproteinemia, and hypoalbuminemia. Serum oxidant-antioxidant parameters revealed a marked increase in the level of oxidant and a decreased level of antioxidants. Genetic characterization based on the 18S rRNA gene fragment demonstrated complete sequence identity with strains from Asia, Europe, and North America. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolate (PQ143276) was most closely related to strains from Sri Lanka and Spain, following a distinct geographical pattern. The therapy included a combination of oral metronidazole, doxycycline, and clindamycin which resulted in a favourable response. The dog regained appetite and vigor by the 10th day post-treatment. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is one of the few documented reports from Tripura that provides a comprehensive analysis of genetic characterization, phylogenetics, hemato-biochemical findings, and serum oxidant-antioxidant status of the infection, while also contributing to the understanding of its evolutionary relationships within the genus.