Molecular detection of Entamoeba histolytica in fresh vegetables and irrigation

R. Saleh, Fatma El-zahraa; A. Gad, Mahmoud; A. Ashour, Ameen; I. Soliman, Mohammad; M. El-Senousy, Waled; Z. Al-Herrawy, Ahmad

doi:10.21608/ejabf.2019.24756

Molecular detection of Entamoeba histolytica in fresh vegetables and irrigation

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

10.21608/ejabf.2019.24756

Abstract

Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica) is the causative agent of human amebiasis. As E. histolytica remains an important reason of morbidity and mortality in developing countries, it can cause up to 100,000 deaths/year worldwide. In this study, a survey was carried out on contamination of some common freshly eaten vegetables and their irrigation water with Entamoeba histolytica. Fresh vegetable samples were collected from public markets and agriculture field in Nahia and Saft areas, Giza, Egypt. A total of 255 vegetable and irrigation water samples were separately examined by PCR technique using Entamoeba histolytica species specific primers. The results showed that Entamoeba histolytica was found in 6.4% (7/110) and 3.7% (4/109) of field and market vegetable samples, respectively. Entamoeba histolytica was detected in 5.6% of 36 irrigation water samples collected from the same agriculture fields. A seasonal pattern of the presence of Entamoeba histolytica was observed with a high prevalence during cool seasons. In conclusion, contamination of freshly eaten vegetables may represent a risk to the health of consumers. Dill is the most contaminated vegetable by Entamoeba histolytica.

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