Detection of Intestinal Parasites among Stool Samples of Pediatric Patients

Iqra Aijaz

Abstract: Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are a major cause of morbidity in children, particularly in developing countries where sanitation and hygiene are often inadequate. These infections can lead to severe nutritional, cognitive, and developmental problems in affected children. To determine the prevalence and species of intestinal parasites among pediatric patients and to assess the relationship between infection, hygiene practices, and clinical symptoms. A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted over a six-month period, examining 40 stool samples from children aged 0 to 15 years. Stool samples were analyzed using direct wet mount, formalin-ether concentration, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining. Demographic data, hygiene practices, and clinical symptoms were collected using structured questionnaires. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate associations between infection status and potential risk factors such as hygiene and water source. Behaviorally, children are more likely to engage in activities that expose them to contaminated soil, water, or food, such as playing outdoors, inadequate hand washing, and eating unwashed fruits. Environmental risk factors, including poor sanitation, overcrowded living conditions, and lack of access to clean water, further exacerbate vulnerability (WHO, 2017). Globally, an estimated 3.5 billion people are affected by intestinal parasites, with approximately 450 million people, mostly children, experiencing clinical illnesses as a result (WHO, 2020). In sub-Saharan Africa, where sanitation infrastructure remains underdeveloped, the burden is particularly high. Studies show that the prevalence of IPIs among children in some African communities can range from 20% to over 80%, depending on local environmental and socioeconomic factors (Ngui et al., 2012).The consequences of parasitic infections in children are profound. Chronic infections contribute to malnutrition, iron-deficiency anemia, growth retardation, impaired cognitive development, and reduced educational attainment (Stephenson et al., 2000). Furthermore, co-infections with multiple parasites are common, compounding the negative health impacts. Despite the significant health burden, IPIs often remain under diagnosed and undertreated, partly due to overlapping symptoms with other common pediatric illnesses and limited diagnostic facilities, particularly in rural and resource-limited settings. Accurate detection and identification of intestinal parasites through stool examination remain crucial for appropriate management, treatment, and the Implementation of effective control programs. Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a significant public health concern, particularly among pediatric populations in low- and middle-Income countries where poor sanitation, unsafe drinking water, and inadequate hygiene practices prevail. Children are especially vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and behavioral risk factors that increase exposure to contaminated environments. Despite global efforts to curb these infections, their prevalence remains alarmingly high, contributing to malnutrition, anemia, impaired cognitive development, and increased morbidity and mortality rates among children.This study was conducted to detect and identify the presence of intestinal parasites among stool samples collected from pediatric patients aged 0?15 years attending selected healthcare facilities at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura Srinagar A cross-sectional laboratory-based design was employed over a [insert time, e.g., six-month] period. A total of 40 stool samples were collected and examined using standard parasitological techniques, including direct wet mount microscopy, the formalin-ether concentration method, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining to enhance the detection sensitivity for protozoa and helminths. The results revealed an overall prevalence rate of 11 % for intestinal parasitic infections among the study population. The most commonly identified parasites included Ascaris lumbricoides, Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica, and Trichuris trichiura. Mixed infections involving two or more parasite species were also observed in a notable proportion of cases. Analysis indicated that infection rates were significantly higher among children residing in rural areas, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and those with inadequate sanitation facilities at home. Furthermore, clinical symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, malnutrition, and anemia were significantly associated with positive parasitic findings.

Keywords: intestinal parasitic infections, pediatric health, hygiene practices, rural healthcare, sanitation challenges

How to Cite?: Iqra Aijaz, "Detection of Intestinal Parasites among Stool Samples of Pediatric Patients", Volume 14 Issue 5, May 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1221-1224, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25518235307, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25518235307