Articles tagged with Tropical Diseases
Scientists at the University of York have deciphered the mechanism by which the compound AB1 kills the trypanosome parasite that causes African trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness. The breakthrough could potentially lead to a cure for this devastating neglected tropical disease and others like Chagas disease.
The elimination of human African trypanosomiasis as a public health problem is within reach, with fewer than 1,000 new cases reported in 2018. According to the study, the area at moderate or high risk of HAT has shrunk significantly since 2016.
Researchers successfully coordinated MDA to stop onchocerciasis transmission in Sudan and Ethiopia, demonstrating the effectiveness of binational cooperation. The study marked the first known interruption of transmission across international borders.
A study found that premature deaths from visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil were faster in urban areas and among younger patients, while those with HIV had slower survival times. The median time between symptom onset and death was around 9 days, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment.
A meta-analysis of 250 studies reveals that approximately 1.4 billion people worldwide, or 19%, are exposed to Toxocara. The prevalence rates vary greatly between regions, with highest rates in Africa and East Asia.
Researchers report that two commercially-available rapid diagnostic tests can be combined for conclusive diagnosis of Chagas disease. The tests provided a sensitivity of 97.7% and specificity of 96.1%, outperforming the conventional serological method.
Researchers found that women in Ethiopia often delay seeking care due to social taboos surrounding genital and breast diseases, while men may be deterred by economic dependence on their partners. The study suggests integrating NTD treatment into primary healthcare can address these gender-related challenges.
Research reveals that MDA programmes often fail to reach marginalized communities due to inequitable treatment delivery, affecting PC NTD prevention. The study highlights the need for consideration of gender and equity issues in health systems to address these disparities.
A recent study reveals significant elevations in anti-inflammatory lipid mediators in response to Toxocara roundworm infections, which contribute to the pathogenesis of neurotoxocarosis. The findings provide new understanding of host-parasite interactions during this disease.
Researchers found that levels of filarial antigens increase after treatment in individuals with adverse events, suggesting a host response to dying parasites. Gene expression analysis also identified elevated levels of immune molecules and 744 genes involved in immune signaling in those with adverse events.
Visceral leishmaniasis has expanded to Central-Southern Brazil through three dispersion routes: Bolivia-Brazil gas pipeline, Paraguay, and western Santa Catarina State. The study highlights the lack of joint policies with neighboring countries as a risk factor for disease spread.
Researchers found that CDC-developed Autocidal Gravid Ovitrap (AGO) traps successfully protected people from chikungunya virus infection in Puerto Rican communities. The study showed a significant reduction in CHIKV seropositivity among participants in intervention areas with AGO traps compared to those without traps.
The study evaluated eight serological tests for VL diagnosis, finding varying performances among non-HIV-infected patients. The ICTs performed best with high accuracy rates, while HIV-infected patients showed lower accuracy.
Research in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases reveals that house mice have dramatically shaped Toxoplasma gondii populations globally. The study found four main lineages of the parasite, one newly described, which differ between inland and coastal regions.
A recent study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases investigated the expression levels of two immune proteins, interleukin-17 and matrix metalloprotein-9, in mycetoma grains. The researchers found that these molecules are present in specific zones of the grains and correspond with disease duration and lesion size.
A new study found nearly a third of Cambodian population infected with Strongyloides stercoralis. The threadworm is associated with increased risk in older individuals, open defecation, and lower knowledge about helminth infections.
Research comparing American, Pacific, and Southeast Asian Zika virus strains found that the American subtype has the highest ability to grow in vitro and in vivo. The strain also caused more testis damage in infected mice, highlighting potential concerns about its pathogenicity.
Researchers found that simple prevention methods such as sealing floors, using soap for daily feet washing, and good household infrastructure can reduce tungiasis cases by up to a third and nearly half. The study suggests that public health workers can play a key role in expanding WASH policies to prevent the disease.
A randomized, double-blind study conducted in Panama found that paromomycin-based topical treatments are effective in curing cutaneous leishmaniasis with an 80% cure rate. The treatment showed high efficacy in children under 12 and teens from 12-17, with cure rates of 84% and 82%, respectively.
Researchers reviewed 60 years of dengue literature to identify trends and knowledge gaps in the Philippines. The study found that the number of dengue publications increased, but there are still gaps in basic laboratory research and newer intervention measures.
A case of tick-borne relapsing fever was reported in Sonora, Mexico, where the disease gets little attention. The patient's symptoms improved with doxycycline treatment, and spirochetes were detected in her blood, supporting the identification of an endemic focus for the disease.
A new study reveals that chronic kidney disease of undetermined causes (CKDu) is present in rural India, particularly in Southern areas, and shares similar risk factors as in Central America and Sri Lanka. The disease affects mainly working-age populations and has a faster clinical evolution compared to traditional CKD.
A study predicts climate change will lead to increased and new exposures to humans of diseases carried by mosquito vectors, with poleward shifts in Aedes-borne virus distributions. The model suggests a middle-of-the-road temperature increase could produce the greatest expansion in viral transmission by Ae. albopictus.
Researchers analyzed sentinel chickens to detect Eastern equine encephalitis virus, finding its presence year-round in the Florida Panhandle. A new hand-washing product, SuperTowel, shows potential to limit disease spread in humanitarian crises. The global 'pandemic' of fake medicines kills over 250,000 children annually.
The new WHO strategy aims to reduce the death and disability burden of snakebite by 50% by 2030 through delivering effective treatments and strengthening health systems. It also emphasizes empowering communities and building a global coalition to coordinate action and mobilize resources.
Researchers analyzed temporal and demographic patterns in gestational syphilis and mother-to-child-transmission of syphilis in a Brazilian region. They found no annual endemic period, but increased cases during February and a failure in the notification system.
Researchers report five cases of severe tungiasis in traditional Amerindian communities, highlighting the disease's potential for life-threatening progression. Treatment with dimeticone oil has shown effectiveness in resolving inflammation and restoring mobility within a week.
Since 2012, the number of leprosy cases in Morocco has decreased significantly, with an average annual decline of -16.83%. This improvement is attributed to the implementation of single dose rifampicin chemoprophylaxis, which has helped to interrupt transmission and reduce disability.
Transitory populations in northern Ethiopia face increased risk of acquiring life-threatening VL infections. Research reveals obstacles to accurate diagnosis and treatment, including lack of diagnostic test kits and inconsistent use of protective measures.
Researchers found benznidazole improves clinical and parasitological outcomes in Chagas patients treated early, lowering mortality rates and parasite counts. This study provides evidence for using benznidazole to treat early-stage Chagas disease.
Researchers identified 20 critical points for disease detection, assessment, and patient communication to strengthen Japan's preparedness plans. Gaps in current controls, including missed cases at accommodations and communication failures, were highlighted.
The incidence of visceral leishmaniasis increased by 52.9% in Brazil between 1990 and 2016, while the disability-adjusted life years increased by 83.6%. Regional variations were observed, with rates rising in the Northeast and Southeast but decreasing in the Northern states.
Researchers found that implementing a standard tetanus protocol in an ICU in Tanzania did not significantly reduce mortality rates, but shifted causes of deaths to airway compromise and sepsis. The study emphasizes the need for increased vaccination coverage to eliminate this preventable disease.
A new field test has been developed to rapidly screen dogs for exposure to Phlebotomus pernicious sand flies, the primary vector of Leishmania infantum. The immunochromatographic test (ICT) shows high sensitivity and specificity in detecting antibodies against the fly's salivary protein.
Researchers analyzed mosquito screening as a tool to gauge parasite presence in lymphatic filariasis. No W. bancrofti DNA was detected in mosquitos collected from endemic and non-endemic areas of Bangladesh.
A new framework, developed from analyzing three large-scale NTD intervention studies, provides actionable socio-anthropological approaches for understanding effectiveness factors. The framework identifies five domains to consider, including community agency and governance of interventions, to help NTD interventions succeed.
In Tanzania, trichiasis surgery patients often refuse treatment because they believe the recovery period is long. However, studies show that the recovery time is actually short, typically a few days. A new study found that educating community health workers about the procedure reduced refusals and increased knowledge about the surgery.
A recent study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that nearly a third of febrile patients in Northwest Ethiopia tested positive for dengue virus. The study identified key risk factors, including residence, occupation, and lack of mosquito net use, which can contribute to DENV infection.
Researchers analyzed 736 ZIKV positive patients and found that older veterans with underlying health issues were more likely to be hospitalized. Patients presenting with neurological symptoms were also more likely to be hospitalized. This study helps providers evaluate and treat patients with ZIKV infection.
A mass-drug administration program reduced scabies complications by 62% among Eritrean and Ethiopian asylum seekers. The program, implemented from January 2014 to March 2016, led to a significant decrease in scabies-related bacterial skin infections and rashes.
A holistic, community-based approach to detection and case management improves disease prognoses in mycetoma patients. The study successfully trained over 300 care providers and implemented free treatment, reducing patient delay and dropout rates.
A pilot study in Kenyan counties found a strong link between RVF-associated syndromes and rainfall, with mosquito swarms preceding cases. The enhanced surveillance system provided early warnings for major outbreaks, enabling preventive measures to be taken.
Researchers tested Dual Path Platform (DPP-POCT) Syphilis Screens tests in rural clinics and a hospital in the Solomon Islands, showing high patient satisfaction and ease of use. The point-of-care test can provide results in under half an hour with no electricity or special equipment needed.
Researchers analyzed cysticercosis cases in Spain from 1997 to 2014, finding increasing hospitalizations, particularly among children under 15. The study also identified regional variations, with the Murcia region having the highest rate, and common clinical characteristics such as epilepsy and convulsions.
Leprosy patients develop unusual fatty clots that can lead to stroke or heart attack. Researchers identified key factors and molecules involved in clot formation, including soluble tissue factor and von Willebrand factor.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that mass azithromycin treatment significantly decreased yaws among schoolchildren in Ghana. The provision of a single oral dose reduced both seropositivity and skin lesions consistent with yaws one year later.
A novel Helmintex assay has been shown to detect low-intensity schistosomiasis infections with high accuracy, surpassing traditional methods. The study found that the HTX method detected eggs in 29% of samples negative according to the Kato-Katz method.
A retrospective study found that 49% of Latin American migrants screened positive for Chagas disease, with a higher percentage of patients with strongyloidiasis infected by the parasite. The authors recommend implementing a combined screening program to address both infections.
The African Leaders Malaria Alliance added neglected tropical diseases to its annual scorecard, revealing progress and gaps across five diseases that affect countries' poorest communities. Most data points to progress, but areas of concern include nearly two-thirds of countries having a NTD coverage index of less than 50%.
Researchers from LSTM are utilizing the Polio network of labs to study neglected tropical diseases affecting over a billion people. The Ghana GPLN lab successfully tested for helminths in a pilot study, identifying a prevalence of 22%, while also detecting Strongyloides infections with no surveillance system.
The Global Polio Laboratory Network has successfully tested for soil transmitted helminths and schistosomiasis in Ghana, identifying a prevalence of 22% for combined helminth infections. The study demonstrates the potential for adapting GPLN labs for monitoring and control of neglected tropical diseases.
The DeWorm3 collection presents evidence on interrupting soil-transmitted helminth (STH) transmission. Key studies evaluate the impact of biannual mass drug administration and diagnostic tool sensitivity.
Researchers have mapped podoconiosis in Cameroon, a neglected tropical disease causing leg swelling, with an overall prevalence of 0.5%. The study suggests a nationwide distribution, highlighting the need for prevention and control strategies to beat this disabling disease.
Building stronger health systems in Madagascar could significantly reduce plague outbreak severity, as recent epidemics have shown. Improvements include staffing, infrastructure, supply chain enhancements and surveillance data integration.
Researchers have identified 22 high-risk districts in Uganda where cholera outbreaks are more likely due to proximity to international borders and bodies of water. These districts are recommended for strengthened collaboration with neighboring countries to control the spread of cholera.
Researchers developed a mouse model to study PRV's pathogenesis, virulence, and treatment efficacy. The model showed that the lung was the primary target organ for replication and demonstrated protective effects of antiserum and non-lethal doses.
Researchers trained staff in Tanzania to assess facial cleanliness and found reliable measures of clean faces. These findings suggest adding facial cleanliness assessments to trachoma surveys in developing countries where the infection is a public health problem.
A UTEP team has made significant progress in developing a human vaccine for cutaneous leishmaniasis, a tropical disease affecting thousands worldwide. Their research results in a 96% decrease in lesions and an 86% protection rate from the disease in mice.
Research investments in five areas of study are needed to accelerate new innovations for neglected diseases, according to Dr. Peter Hotez. Strategic funding could jumpstart a new generation of translational medicine and control tools.
The global Guinea Worm Eradication Programme is highly cost-effective in preventing the spread of guinea worm disease, with a financial cost of $0.0176 per capita per year. The programme's cost-effectiveness exceeds that of no intervention or minimal intervention scenarios, making it a valuable investment for disease prevention.