MULTIPLEX PCR FOR DIAGNOSIS OF ENTAMOEBA HISTOLYTICA IN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENTS AT WASIT PROVINCE

Abstract

Immunocompromised individuals at Wasit Province, Iraq, face an elevated risk of intestinal 
parasitic infections, particularly from protozoan pathogens like Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia 
lamblia, and Cyclospora cayetanensis. Conventional diagnostic methods often lack sensitivity, 
leading to under diagnosis and delayed treatment. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence 
and distribution of these parasites in immunocompromised individuals, emphasizing the need for 
accurate detection methods. The three major protozoa causing diarrhea worldwide are Enteric 
Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Cyclospora cayetanensis. The study collected stool 
samples from patients at Wasit Province, Iraq, and employed both direct stool examination and 
molecular diagnostic techniques, such as multiplex PCR, for accurate parasite detection. The 
prevalence of E. histolytica was notably high at 96.00%, emphasizing its significant presence in 
the studied population. G. lamblia and Cyclospora cayetanensis. exhibited lower prevalence rates 
at 12.00% and 21.00%, respectively, suggesting distinct subpopulations or transmission dynamics. 
Gender-specific and age-specific analyses revealed variations in parasite prevalence. Females 
showed a higher prevalence of E. histolytica, highlighting potential gender-specific risk factors. 
Age-specific patterns indicated consistent high prevalence of E. histolytica across all age groups, 
suggesting widespread exposure or shared risk factors. G. lamblia exhibited age-related 
susceptibility, and C. cayetanensis. showed a mild downward trend with age.
 Multiplex PCR analysis and chi-square tests were conducted to assess possible cooccurrence of parasites. Results indicated independence in parasite prevalence, emphasizing the 
importance of considering various transmission pathways and demographic vulnerabilities in 
developing parasite management strategies. The study concludes that immunocompromised 
individuals in Wasit Province are highly susceptible to intestinal parasitic infections, with E. 
histolytica being the predominant pathogen. The findings underscore the need for tailored 
prevention and control strategies, taking into account the unique characteristics of each parasite