Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease

13 pages, 4107 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Field-Applicable Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification for the Detection of Seven Common Human Papillomavirus Subtypes

by Hongyi Li, He Tan, Xiaona Lv, Zhiqiang Han, Yuxin Wang, Shijue Gao, Ruiqin Zhang, Xinxin Shen, Xuejun Ma and Yanqing Tie

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100240 (registering DOI) - 12 Oct 2024

Abstract

Persistent HPV infection is a major risk factor for the subsequent development of cervical cancer. LAMP is simple and suitable for field detection in the resource-limited settings. In this study, hydroxy naphthol blue (HNB)-based visual LAMP and evagreen-based fluorescent LAMP coupled with a [...] Read more.

Persistent HPV infection is a major risk factor for the subsequent development of cervical cancer. LAMP is simple and suitable for field detection in the resource-limited settings. In this study, hydroxy naphthol blue (HNB)-based visual LAMP and evagreen-based fluorescent LAMP coupled with a microfluidic chip (LAMP-chip) were established for the field detection of seven subtypes of HPV. The analytical sensitivity was 19–233 copies/reaction. The overall clinical sensitivity was 97.35% for visual LAMP and 98.23% for LAMP-chip. Both LAMP assays exhibited 100% specificity and were completed in less than 50 min. Additionally, both assays did not require complicated nucleic acid extraction and purification steps. A complete quality control monitoring system (including internal control, positive quality control and negative control) in the LAMP assays further ensured the credibility of the results. Our findings demonstrated that the proposed LAMP assays have the potential to be applied in the testing of common HPV DNA in field investigations (visual LAMP) or within communities and primary health centers (LAMP-chip). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Epidemiology of Human Papillomavirus Infection)

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14 pages, 1399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Low Coverage of the Free Surgical Care Programme for Trachomatous Trichiasis in Rural Guinea in 2022

by Lamine Lamah, Delphin Kolié, Akoi Zoumanigui, Nouhou Konkouré Diallo, Mamadou Camara, Hawa Manet, Tamba Mina Millimouno, Bienvenu Salim Camara, Aissata Tounkara and Alexandre Delamou

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100239 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the experiences of healthcare personnel and patients in the organization of free surgical campaigns and care for trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri in Guinea, including challenges experienced in providing surgical care. This was an explanatory [...] Read more.

This study aimed to describe the experiences of healthcare personnel and patients in the organization of free surgical campaigns and care for trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri in Guinea, including challenges experienced in providing surgical care. This was an explanatory qualitative study conducted in 2022 in the health district of Siguiri. A total of 20 participants were interviewed including patients (n = 7; 35%), community health workers (n = 4; 20%), health services managers, and healthcare providers (n = 8; 40%). Two main data collection technics were used: documentary review and in-depth individual interviews. All interviews were transcribed and manually coded using an Excel extraction spreadsheet. Data were analysed using inductive and deductive approaches. The results showed several organizational, structural, and community challenges that underlined the low surgical coverage of trachomatous trichiasis in the health district of Siguiri. Organizational challenges included the low involvement of local actors in planning activities, the limited timeframe of the campaigns, and the lack of logistics for activities supervision and patients’ transportation to surgery sites. Structural challenges included the inadequacy of health centres to provide surgical services, poor health infrastructures, and sanitation conditions in some areas. Individual challenges included remoteness of surgical sites and costs associated with services provision including medicines. Community challenges included fear of surgery and the coincidence of the campaigns with agricultural and mining activities. The results of the study call on the national neglected tropical disease program and its partners to adopt and promote micro-planning of trachomatous trichiasis surgical activities, with the effective participation of local stakeholders in endemic health districts. They should also envision integrating the management of surgical treatment including costs associated with care (transportation, food, rehabilitation support for patients who have undergone surgery) and complications of surgical procedures for an expansion of the trachomatous trichiasis free surgical care coverage in endemic health districts in Guinea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights on Neglected Tropical Diseases in West Africa)

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8 pages, 427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Frequency, Clinical Characteristics, and Management of Snakebite Patients Admitted at the Envenomation Treatment Center of the Applied Biology Research Institute of Guinea

by Mohamed Ciré Diallo, Karifa Kourouma, Saidou Boumbaly, Armand Saloun Kamano, Abdoulaye Sow, Fassou Mathias Grovogui, Sahar Traore and Alexandre Delamou

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100238 (registering DOI) - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the frequency, clinical signs, management, and outcomes of snakebite patients admitted to the envenomation treatment center of the Institut de Recherche en Biologie Appliquée de Guinée (IRBAG). This was a retrospective review combining aggregated annual [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to describe the frequency, clinical signs, management, and outcomes of snakebite patients admitted to the envenomation treatment center of the Institut de Recherche en Biologie Appliquée de Guinée (IRBAG). This was a retrospective review combining aggregated annual statistics (2011–2015) and routine data (from January to October 2021) from the IRBAG treatment center. There were 1345 (57.2%) snakebite victims out of a total of 2352 consultations at the center during the study period. Males (67.7%), persons aged ≥45 years (29%) and ≤14 years (27.7%), farmers/housewives (44.5%), workers (23.9%), and those residing in the Kindia Prefecture (53.5%) were the most commonly affected. The majority of victims (84.5%) were admitted three hours after snakebite, with bites mainly occurring in rural areas (86.5%) and during the rainy season (83.2%). Pain (100%), edema (76.8%), and bleeding (65.2%) were the most common clinical presentations. Almost all victims received antivenom serum (98%), antibiotics (87.7%), and analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs (88.4%). Six out of the one hundred and fifty-five patients died. Snakebites are a frequent public health problem in rural Guinea. The majority of victims seek medical attention too late. There is an urgent need to include snakebite in the country’s list of priority NTDs in order to promote access to antivenom serum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights on Neglected Tropical Diseases in West Africa)

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9 pages, 1366 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Frequency and Factors Associated with Disabilities among Leprosy Patients Admitted to the Kindia Disability Prevention and Physical Rehabilitation Centre (Pirp) in Guinea from 2017 to 2021

by Sy savané Ibrahima Sory, Sidibe Sidikiba, Kolié Delphin, Camara Mamadou, Sakho Fatoumata, Sidibé Sadan, Chérif Mahamoud Sama, Doumbouya Sékou, Nabé Abdoul Karim and Delamou Alexandre

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100237 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study aims to estimate the prevalence and analyze the factors associated with leprosy-related disabilities at the Kindia Disability Prevention and Physical Rehabilitation Centre (PIRP) in Guinea. It is a cross-sectional study using routine data from the centre from 2017 to 2021. Of [...] Read more.

This study aims to estimate the prevalence and analyze the factors associated with leprosy-related disabilities at the Kindia Disability Prevention and Physical Rehabilitation Centre (PIRP) in Guinea. It is a cross-sectional study using routine data from the centre from 2017 to 2021. Of 115 patients, 76% had a disability, 49% of which were grade II and 27% grade I. The age range of 15 to 30 years was the most represented (43.5%), with the average age (standard deviation) being 38 (16.5) years. Children under 14 years of age represented 3.5% of the total. Most (89%) patients had newly diagnosed leprosy. The majority (66.1%) had never come in contact with people with leprosy symptoms. Almost all (99.1%) patients had type 1 reactions on admission. Patients with multibacillary leprosy were in the majority (83.5%), and those with symptoms lasting 7–12 months represented 56.5% of the sample. In total, 79.1% of the patients received corticosteroid therapy, and 92.1% were reported cured at discharge. This neglected tropical disease continues to be a challenge in Guinea, even though leprosy care is free. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights on Neglected Tropical Diseases in West Africa)

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18 pages, 594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Community Engagement and Collaboration between Researchers and Community Stakeholders for Schistosomiasis and Malaria Projects in Ingwavuma, uMkhanyakude District, KwaZulu-Natal

by Zinhle Mthembu and Moses John Chimbari

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100236 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

Community engagement is a multiphase process that is crucial for successful community-based health interventions. This study investigates the collaborative phase of community engagement, specifically within a co-developed framework implemented in uMkhanyakude District, South Africa. A qualitative case study approach was employed to explore [...] Read more.

Community engagement is a multiphase process that is crucial for successful community-based health interventions. This study investigates the collaborative phase of community engagement, specifically within a co-developed framework implemented in uMkhanyakude District, South Africa. A qualitative case study approach was employed to explore the experiences of key community stakeholders during the collaborative phase of project implementation. Data collection involved key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observation. The findings demonstrate the potential for effective collaboration among village headmen, community advisory board members, and community research assistants to address local health challenges. Community research assistants played a particularly valuable role in facilitating participatory research and hands-on engagement with researchers. However, several barriers hindered the collaborative process, including demanding work conditions, communication issues regarding compensation, inappropriate behavior from the research team, and culturally insensitive interactions. While community-based participatory research offers a promising collaborative approach for addressing health issues, a careful consideration of local socio-cultural dynamics is essential to avoid misunderstandings and overcome potential barriers. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring that collaborative partnerships effectively empower communities and achieve sustainable improvements in health outcomes. Full article

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5 pages, 189 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Epidemiology, Detection and Treatment of Malaria

by Wenn-Chyau Lee and Yee-Ling Lau

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100235 - 9 Oct 2024

Abstract

Malaria, one of the oldest infections to affect humans, incurs significant healthcare burdens across various parts of the world [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Detection and Treatment of Malaria)

14 pages, 3089 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Associated with IgG/IgM Levels after SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

by Wei Liao, Haoyu Liang, Yujian Liang, Xianlu Gao, Guichan Liao, Shaohang Cai, Lili Liu and Shuwei Chen

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100234 - 8 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study evaluated the factors influencing IgG/IgM antibody levels in 120 patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) following vaccination with inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Each patient’s demographic and clinical data were documented, and serum IgG and IgM antibodies were detected using a commercial [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the factors influencing IgG/IgM antibody levels in 120 patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) following vaccination with inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Each patient’s demographic and clinical data were documented, and serum IgG and IgM antibodies were detected using a commercial magnetic chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay kit. The results indicated that while all patients had received at least one vaccine dose, 95 tested positive for IgG and 25 were negative. A higher proportion of IgG-positive patients had received three vaccine doses. Comparatively, gamma-glutamyl transferase levels were elevated in IgM-negative patients. The study further differentiated patients based on their treatment status: 46 were treatment-naive and 74 had received chemotherapy combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICT) at enrollment. Despite similar baseline characteristics and time from vaccination to antibody detection, IgM positivity was significantly lower in the ICT group, with no significant difference in IgG positivity between the treatment-naive and ICT groups. A multivariable analysis identified the number of vaccine doses as an independent factor of IgG positivity, while ICT emerged as an independent risk factor for IgM positivity. Additionally, IgG titers generally declined over time, although patients with higher baseline IgG levels maintained higher titers longer. In conclusion, ICT in patients with HNC does not significantly affect IgG levels post-vaccination. However, booster vaccinations have been shown to be associated with higher IgG positivity, although these levels gradually decrease over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Respiratory Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Control)

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20 pages, 1661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alternative Pharmaceutical Innovation Models in Competitive Markets: A Collaborative Approach to Develop a Novel Drug for Hepatitis C

by Marcela Vieira, Iulia Slovenski, Kaitlin Large, Adrian Alonso Ruiz and Suerie Moon

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100233 - 8 Oct 2024

Abstract

Alternative innovation models have emerged to address failures of the traditional pharmaceutical system, particularly for diseases where market incentives do not attract sufficient research and development efforts. However, the feasibility of such models for diseases with significant markets is not well-established. This article [...] Read more.

Alternative innovation models have emerged to address failures of the traditional pharmaceutical system, particularly for diseases where market incentives do not attract sufficient research and development efforts. However, the feasibility of such models for diseases with significant markets is not well-established. This article analyses the development of a novel drug (ravidasvir) for the treatment of hepatitis C, a highly profitable market. Data from qualitative research methods, including literature reviews and semi-structured interviews, was analyzed using a novel conceptual framework focusing on actors, resources, organizational practices, and outcomes. Dissimilar to other projects, ravidasvir did not involve any major pharmaceutical companies. Rather, it leveraged the capacities of actors less traditionally involved in the development of novel medicines by constructing a collaborative network of private and public partners from low- and middle-income countries with a shared goal. The collaboration was successful in developing a highly effective, easy-to-use, and affordable medicine and contributed significantly to capacity-strengthening. However, the case also highlighted that strategic behavior by competing for-profit firms could pose significant challenges and that changing external conditions reduced the potential public health impact of the drug. Lessons from ravidasvir can inform future efforts to develop alternative innovation models for therapeutic areas with significant commercial interest. Full article

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12 pages, 258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Do Travelers Know about Traveler’s Diarrhea? Impact of a Pre-Travel Consultation in the Lisbon Area, Portugal

by Joana Estrada, Cláudia Conceição, Gonçalo Figueiredo Augusto and Rosa Teodósio

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100232 - 8 Oct 2024

Abstract

Traveler’s diarrhea (TD) is one of the most common travel-related health problems, largely interfering with planned activities and potentially contributing to antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to characterize the knowledge about TD among pre-travel consultation users of one Portuguese travel clinic and determine [...] Read more.

Traveler’s diarrhea (TD) is one of the most common travel-related health problems, largely interfering with planned activities and potentially contributing to antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to characterize the knowledge about TD among pre-travel consultation users of one Portuguese travel clinic and determine the impact of the consultation on knowledge levels. Using a quasi-experimental, separate-sample pretest–posttest design, participants were randomly assigned to two groups: control/pre-consultation group (CG) or experimental/post-consultation group (EG). An anonymous self-administered questionnaire was used. A total of 470 participants were analyzed (227 CG; 243 EG). The EG/post-consultation group showed significant improvement in knowledge, with correct answers increasing from 63% to 75% (p < 0.001). However, knowledge gaps persisted: over 50% were unaware of TD’s self-limited nature, 30% did not recognize loperamide as a symptom reliever, and 36% believed all travelers should take antibiotics to prevent TD. The educational level and previous travel outside Europe influenced baseline knowledge; previous travel medicine consultations and information on TD improved knowledge in both groups and made it easier to acquire knowledge on the subject. Thus, a pre-travel consultation effectively increased travelers’ TD knowledge. However, post-consultation knowledge levels remained suboptimal, indicating the need for targeted interventions to increase travelers’ literacy and optimize pre-travel consultations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Travel Medicine)

11 pages, 2793 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Five-Year Malaria Prevalence/Frequency in Makenene in a Forest–Savannah Transition Ecozone of Central Cameroon: The Results of a Retrospective Study

by Joël Djoufounna, Roland Bamou, Juluis V. Foyet, Laura G. Ningahi, Marie P. A. Mayi, Christophe Antonio-Nkondjio and Timoléon Tchuinkam

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100231 - 7 Oct 2024

Abstract

Objective: Understanding the epidemiological features of malaria is a key step to monitoring and quantifying the impact of the current control efforts to inform future ones. This study establishes the prevalence and frequency of malaria in a forest–savannah ecozone for 5 consecutive years [...] Read more.

Objective: Understanding the epidemiological features of malaria is a key step to monitoring and quantifying the impact of the current control efforts to inform future ones. This study establishes the prevalence and frequency of malaria in a forest–savannah ecozone for 5 consecutive years in Cameroon. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in 3 health centers of Makenene from 2016 to 2020, a period covering the second long-lasting insecticide net mass distribution campaign. Malaria infectious records were reviewed from laboratory registers. The difference in exposure to malaria was estimated using a regression logistic model. Results: A total of 13525 patients underwent malaria diagnostic tests, with a general malaria prevalence of 65.3%. A greater prevalence of malaria was observed in males (68.39%) compared to females (63.14%). The frequency of consultations in health centers was dominated by females, with a gender ratio (M/F) of 0.66. Annual trends in malaria prevalence slightly varied from 2016 to 2020, exceeding 60%: 65.2% in 2016; 66.7% in 2017, 68.1% in 2018, 63.2% in 2019, and 65.3% in 2020, with a significant seasonal variation (p < 0.0001). The highest malaria prevalence was observed during the short rainy season, no matter the year. Among positive cases, the most represented age groups were 6–15 (p < 0.0001), followed by those under 5, while the age group >25 years was the least represented. Conclusion: Close monitoring and additional intervention measures for malaria control are needed, as are more studies on vector bionomics and transmission patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Global Burden of Malaria and Control Strategies)

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17 pages, 838 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Spectrum of Pathogens Associated with Infections in African Children with Severe Acute Malnutrition: A Scoping Review

by Bassey Ekeng, Olufunke Adedokun, Vivien Otu, Stella Chukwuma, Agatha Okah, Osamagbe Asemota, Ubokobong Eshiet, Usenobong Akpan, Rosa Nwagboso, Eti Ebiekpi, Emmanuella Umoren and Edet Usun

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100230 - 6 Oct 2024

Abstract

Understanding the interplay between infections and severe acute malnutrition is critical in attaining good clinical outcomes when managing malnourished children. However, review studies describing the profile of the associated pathogens in the malnourished African paediatric population are sparse in the literature. We aimed [...] Read more.

Understanding the interplay between infections and severe acute malnutrition is critical in attaining good clinical outcomes when managing malnourished children. However, review studies describing the profile of the associated pathogens in the malnourished African paediatric population are sparse in the literature. We aimed to identify the spectrum of pathogens from studies reporting infections in severely malnourished African children, as well as the antibiotic resistance pattern and clinical outcomes. A systematic literature review of the PubMed database was conducted following PRISMA guidelines from January 2001 to June 2024. The search algorithm was ((marasmus) OR (kwashiorkor) OR (severe acute malnutrition) OR (protein energy malnutrition)) AND (Africa). For a more comprehensive retrieval, an additional search algorithm was deployed: ((HIV) OR (tuberculosis)) AND (severe acute malnutrition). We included 60 studies conducted between 2001 and 2024. Most of the studies were from East Africa (n = 45, 75%) and Southern Africa (n = 5, 8.3%). A total of 5845 pathogens were identified comprising 2007 viruses, 2275 bacteria, 1444 parasites, and 119 fungal pathogens. The predominant pathogens were HIV, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and malaria parasites accounting for 33.8%, 30%, and 24.2% of pathogens identified. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was documented in only three studies. Fatality rates were reported in 45 studies and ranged from 2% to 56% regardless of the category of pathogen. This review affirms the deleterious effect of infections in malnourished patients and suggests a gross underdiagnosis as studies were found from only 17 (31.5%) African countries. Moreover, data on fungal infections in severely malnourished African children were nearly absent despite this population being at risk. Thus, there is an urgent need to prioritize research investigating African children with severe acute malnutrition for fungal infections besides other pathogens and improve the availability of diagnostic tools and the optimized usage of antibiotics through the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programmes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Infections and Antimicrobial Use in Neonates and Infants)

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10 pages, 461 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Under-Reporting of Human Leptospirosis Cases in Cities of Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brazil

by Mariani Borges Franco, Lara Reis Gomes, Cristina Rostkwoska, Ana Cláudia Arantes Marquez Pajuaba, José Roberto Mineo, Anna Monteiro Correia Lima and Stefan Vilges de Oliveira

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100229 - 4 Oct 2024

Abstract

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by the pathogenic Leptospira species through direct or indirect contact with infected animals. Due to protean clinical manifestation in the early stages, leptospirosis is often difficult to distinguish from other common acute febrile illnesses, such as dengue. [...] Read more.

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by the pathogenic Leptospira species through direct or indirect contact with infected animals. Due to protean clinical manifestation in the early stages, leptospirosis is often difficult to distinguish from other common acute febrile illnesses, such as dengue. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of leptospirosis in suspected dengue patients whose serological diagnosis was negative. A total of 449 serum samples from patients (negative IgM-ELISA dengue) with fever, headache, myalgia, and nausea were tested. The Dual-Path Platform (DPP) rapid test developed by the Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos Bio-Manguinhos in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was used for screening IgM antibodies against Leptospira in blood serum, and the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was performed on samples positive in the DPP for leptospirosis, as well as on an equal number of negative samples. Results: The data obtained from the samples analyzed with the DPP assay showed 26 positive results (5.79%), of which 38.46% were male and 61.54% female, with a mean age of 41 years. We tested 52 samples using the MAT, including 26 reactive for IgM and 26 non-reactive in the DPP assay. Nine samples (17.31%) were reactive, and among them, six also showed reactivity in the DPP assay. Of the six samples reactive in both tests, 66.67% were female, living in urban areas in the city of Uberlândia, with a mean age of 50 years, being 50% white, 33.33% brown, and 16.67% black. The findings demonstrated that leptospirosis cases are underdiagnosed and undertreated in the study population and more attention needs to be paid for ruling out leptospirosis and other pathogens causing acute febrile illness in dengue-endemic areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)

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12 pages, 1084 KiB

Open AccessReview

Artificial Intelligence in Infectious Disease Clinical Practice: An Overview of Gaps, Opportunities, and Limitations

by Andreas Sarantopoulos, Christina Mastori Kourmpani, Atshaya Lily Yokarasa, Chiedza Makamanzi, Polyna Antoniou, Nikolaos Spernovasilis and Constantinos Tsioutis

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100228 - 30 Sep 2024

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical medicine marks a revolutionary shift, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, therapeutic efficacy, and overall healthcare delivery. This review explores the current uses, benefits, limitations, and future applications of AI in infectious diseases, highlighting its specific applications in [...] Read more.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical medicine marks a revolutionary shift, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, therapeutic efficacy, and overall healthcare delivery. This review explores the current uses, benefits, limitations, and future applications of AI in infectious diseases, highlighting its specific applications in diagnostics, clinical decision making, and personalized medicine. The transformative potential of AI in infectious diseases is emphasized, addressing gaps in rapid and accurate disease diagnosis, surveillance, outbreak detection and management, and treatment optimization. Despite these advancements, significant limitations and challenges exist, including data privacy concerns, potential biases, and ethical dilemmas. The article underscores the need for stringent regulatory frameworks and inclusive databases to ensure equitable, ethical, and effective AI utilization in the field of clinical and laboratory infectious diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Infection Prevention and Control: Practical and Educational Advances)

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7 pages, 1266 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Unusual Unsatisfactory Treatment in Two Patients with Imported Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

by Anna Kuna, Romuald Olszański, Beata Szostakowska, Natalia Kulawiak, Ravi Kant and Maciej Grzybek

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100227 - 30 Sep 2024

Abstract

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the most commonly diagnosed dermatological condition in travel medicine after diarrhoeal diseases and febrile status. The disease is transmitted by Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia sandflies. It appears in various clinical forms, the most common of which is a painless [...] Read more.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the most commonly diagnosed dermatological condition in travel medicine after diarrhoeal diseases and febrile status. The disease is transmitted by Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia sandflies. It appears in various clinical forms, the most common of which is a painless ulcer with raised edges, usually present on exposed parts of the body on the side where the insect bite occurred. Annually, over a million new cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases are reported globally. We present two cases of affliction, the first occurring in Patient 1, who attempted treatment through the Kambo cleanse in South America, which is considered a toxic, even life-threatening, procedure. It involves the subcutaneous application of a substance dangerous to humans derived from the surface mucus of a frog. Patient 2 applied caustic ointments, a fruitarian diet, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a private setting. After initial therapeutic failures caused by the patients’ unconventional treatment ideas, the causal treatment effect was satisfactory, demonstrating the efficacy of these treatments in resolving the infection when applied appropriately. Despite the typical CL presentation in both patients, their self-treatment course was unusual. It is worth noting that alternative, sometimes harmful, self-treatment initiatives by patients may be surprising and ineffective. Promoting knowledge about tropical diseases among travellers and medical staff is crucial to improving treatment outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)

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7 pages, 1438 KiB

Open AccessViewpoint

Molecular Testing of Environmental Samples as a Potential Source to Estimate Parasite Infection

by Rojelio Mejia, Barton Slatko, Cristina Almazan, Ruben Cimino, Alejandro Krolewiecki, Natalia Montellano Duran, Jacob Edwin Valera Aspetty, Paola Andrea Vargas, Chiara Cássia Oliveira Amorim, Stefan Michael Geiger, Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara, Juan David Ramirez, Luz Marina Llangarí-Arizo, Irene Guadalupe, Liliana E. Villanueva-Lizama, Julio Vladimir Cruz-Chan, María Leticia Ojeda, Eva Mereles Aranda, Sandra Ocampos Benedetti, Maritza Dalí Camones Rivera, Eddyson Montalvo Sabino, Carlos Pineda, Eric J. Wetzel and Philip J. Cooper Show full author list Hide full author list

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100226 - 26 Sep 2024

Abstract

We discuss the potential usefulness of molecular testing of soil, dust, and water samples to detect medically important parasites, and where such testing could be used to supplement stool sampling in humans. A wide variety of parasites including protozoa and helminths, many of [...] Read more.

We discuss the potential usefulness of molecular testing of soil, dust, and water samples to detect medically important parasites, and where such testing could be used to supplement stool sampling in humans. A wide variety of parasites including protozoa and helminths, many of which are zoonotic, have an important infection reservoir in the environment. In some cases, this environmental period is essential for further parasite development. We describe the progress in implementing methods for the molecular detection of these parasites in soil across eight collaborating centers in Latin America and represent a variety of potential applications in improving our understanding of parasite epidemiology and mapping, surveillance, and control of these parasites. This methodology offers new opportunities for improving our understanding of a wide variety of parasites of public health importance and novel tools for their control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Diagnosis and Risk Assessment of Helminth Infections)

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21 pages, 8229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geospatial Analysis of Abiotic and Biotic Conditions Associated with Leptospirosis in the Klaten Regency, Central Java, Indonesia

by Dwi Sutiningsih, Dewi Puspito Sari, Cintya Dipta Permatasari, Nur Azizah Azzahra, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales, Sri Yuliawati and Nine Elissa Maharani

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(10), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9100225 - 24 Sep 2024

Abstract

The Klaten Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia, is a leptospirosis endemic area. The purpose of this study is to spatially describe the abiotic and biotic environmental factors that contributed to the incidence of leptospirosis in the Klaten Regency in 2018. This was a [...] Read more.

The Klaten Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia, is a leptospirosis endemic area. The purpose of this study is to spatially describe the abiotic and biotic environmental factors that contributed to the incidence of leptospirosis in the Klaten Regency in 2018. This was a descriptive observational with a cross-sectional approach conducted in the Klaten Regency, Central Java, in 2019 with 59 respondents. The results revealed that the percentage of abiotic environmental factors such as poor waste disposal facilities, poor gutter conditions, rivers < 200 m, and flooding history, namely 35.6%, 41.2%, 54.2%, and 6.8%, respectively. The highest leptospirosis cases occurred in April 2018, with 325 mm of rainfall, an average temperature of 27 °C, an average humidity of 82.3%, and an altitude of 100–200 MASL (79.7%). Meanwhile, biotic factors included rat nest existence (100%), having pets at risk (32.2%), and ≥three types of vegetation (79.7%). The main result confirmed that all leptospirosis cases had rat nests throughout the respondent’s house. This finding emphasizes the importance of rat pest control programs by establishing cross-sectoral collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and educating the public to also play a role in environmental cleanliness in controlling rats. Full article

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5 pages, 205 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Think Vibrio, Think Rare: Non-O1-Non-O139- Vibrio cholerae Bacteremia in Advanced Lung Cancer—A Case Report

by Andrea Marino, Bruno Cacopardo, Laura Villa, Adriana D’Emilio, Salvatore Piro and Giuseppe Nunnari

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(9), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9090224 - 21 Sep 2024

Abstract

Vibrio cholerae, a Gram-negative bacterium, is widely known as the cause of cholera, an acute diarrheal disease. While only certain strains are capable of causing cholera, non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae strains (NOVC) can lead to non-pathogenic colonization or mild illnesses such as gastroenteritis. [...] Read more.

Vibrio cholerae, a Gram-negative bacterium, is widely known as the cause of cholera, an acute diarrheal disease. While only certain strains are capable of causing cholera, non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae strains (NOVC) can lead to non-pathogenic colonization or mild illnesses such as gastroenteritis. In immunocompromised patients, however, NOVC can cause severe infections, including rare cases of bacteremia, especially in those with underlying conditions like liver disease, hematologic disorders, and malignancies. This case report presents a rare instance of NOVC bacteremia in a 71-year-old patient with advanced lung cancer, illustrating the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and treatment interventions required. The patient presented with fever, asthenia, and confusion, and was found to have bacteremia caused by NOVC, confirmed through blood cultures and molecular analysis. Treatment with intravenous ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin led to a rapid clinical improvement and resolution of the infection. This case, along with an overview of similar incidents, underscores the importance of considering NOVC in differential diagnoses for immunocompromised patients presenting with fever, and highlights the necessity of timely diagnosis and targeted antimicrobial therapy to achieve favorable outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Foodborne Zoonotic Bacterial Infections)

12 pages, 1308 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antimalarial Mechanisms and Resistance Status of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives

by Dan Zheng, Tingting Liu, Shasha Yu, Zhilong Liu, Jing Wang and Ying Wang

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(9), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9090223 - 20 Sep 2024

Abstract

Artemisinin is an endoperoxide sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Artemisia annua and is often used to treat malaria. Artemisinin’s peroxide bridge is the key structure behind its antimalarial action. Scientists have created dihydroartemisinin, artemether, artesunate, and other derivatives preserving artemisinin’s peroxide bridge to increase [...] Read more.

Artemisinin is an endoperoxide sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Artemisia annua and is often used to treat malaria. Artemisinin’s peroxide bridge is the key structure behind its antimalarial action. Scientists have created dihydroartemisinin, artemether, artesunate, and other derivatives preserving artemisinin’s peroxide bridge to increase its clinical utility value. Artemisinin compounds exhibit excellent efficacy, quick action, and minimal toxicity in malaria treatment and have greatly contributed to malaria control. With the wide and unreasonable application of artemisinin-based medicines, malaria parasites have developed artemisinin resistance, making malaria prevention and control increasingly challenging. Artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium strains have been found in many countries and regions. The mechanisms of antimalarials and artemisinin resistance are not well understood, making malaria prevention and control a serious challenge. Understanding the antimalarial and resistance mechanisms of artemisinin drugs helps develop novel antimalarials and guides the rational application of antimalarials to avoid the spread of resistance, which is conducive to malaria control and elimination efforts. This review will discuss the antimalarial mechanisms and resistance status of artemisinin and its derivatives, which will provide a reference for avoiding drug resistance and the research and development of new antimalarial drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Detection and Treatment of Malaria)

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20 pages, 5977 KiB

Open AccessReview

Chemical Control of Snail Vectors as an Integrated Part of a Strategy for the Elimination of Schistosomiasis—A Review of the State of Knowledge and Future Needs

by Amadou Garba Djirmay, Rajpal Singh Yadav, Jiagang Guo, David Rollinson and Henry Madsen

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(9), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9090222 - 20 Sep 2024

Abstract

WHO promotes the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to control and eliminate schistosomiasis through preventive chemotherapy, snail control, clean water supply, improved sanitation, behaviour change interventions, and environmental management. The transmission of schistosomiasis involves infected definitive hosts (humans or animals) excreting eggs that [...] Read more.

WHO promotes the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to control and eliminate schistosomiasis through preventive chemotherapy, snail control, clean water supply, improved sanitation, behaviour change interventions, and environmental management. The transmission of schistosomiasis involves infected definitive hosts (humans or animals) excreting eggs that hatch (miracidia), which infect freshwater snail vectors (also referred to as intermediate snail hosts) living in marshlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, or irrigation canals. Infective larvae (cercariae) develop within the snail, which, when released, may infect humans and/or animals in contact with the water. Snail control aims to interrupt the transmission cycle of the disease by removing the vector snails and, by so doing, indirectly improves the impact of the preventive chemotherapy by reducing reinfection. Snail control was, for many years, the only strategy for the prevention of schistosomiasis before preventive chemotherapy became the primary intervention. Snails can be controlled through various methods: environmental control, biological control, and chemical control. The chemical control of snails has proven to be the most effective method to interrupt the transmission of schistosomiasis. The current review aims to describe the vector snails of human schistosomiasis, present the chemicals and strategies for the control of snails, the challenges with the implementation, and the future needs. Snail control can play a key role in reducing schistosomiasis transmission and, thus, complements other interventions for disease control. There is a need to develop new molluscicide products or new formulations and methods of applications for existing molluscicides that would target snail vectors more specifically. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vector-Borne Diseases)

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