Seroprevalence of toxocariasis in Lebanon: a pilot study

Parasitology. 2006 May;132(Pt 5):635-9. doi: 10.1017/S0031182005009637. Epub 2006 Jan 23.

Abstract

Toxocariasis is a common helminthic infection that has a worldwide distribution. However, data from Lebanon about the prevalence of this infection are non-existent. We conducted a Toxocara seroprevalence study with 150 subjects attending the outpatient clinics at the American University of Beirut Medical Center between May and June 2004. Serum specimens were tested for anti-Toxocara antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and confirmed by Western blot. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for infection. The seroprevalence rate of toxocariasis was 19%. Male gender and below high school education were significantly associated with a positive serological test (odds ratios = 3.1 and 2.8, respectively). Higher numbers of persons in the household, and low family income during childhood, were significant on bivariate analysis only. Toxocariasis is common in Lebanon. A large population-based survey is needed to confirm these results.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Helminth / blood*
  • Blotting, Western
  • Cats
  • Dogs
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lebanon / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Odds Ratio
  • Pilot Projects
  • Risk Factors
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Sex Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Toxocara canis / immunology*
  • Toxocariasis / epidemiology*
  • Toxocariasis / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Helminth