Iranian Journal of Parasitology

In Commemoration of the Academic Position of Professor Mostafa Rezaeian, a Prominent Iranian Parasitologist

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

No Abstract

Association of Some Pro-and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines Response Pattern against Toxoplasmosis in Newly Married Couples

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: The study aimed to investigate the association between cytokine profiles and toxoplasmosis in newly married couples, with identifying the immunological markers to minimizing fertility complications through early detection and intervention.
Methods: From May 2024 to February 2025, blood samples of 480 newlywed couples in Zakho City, Iraq, were evaluated for Anti-Toxoplasma G (IgG) and M (IgM) antibodies, as well as serum cytokines like Interleukin 12 (IL-12), Tumer Necrosis Factor α (TNF-α), Interleukin10 (IL-10), and Transforming Growth Factor ß1 (TGFß1), using ELISA. Additionally, C Reactive protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) were also estimated.
Results: The overall seroprevalence of Anti-Toxoplasma antibodies were 25.8% (124/480), constituting 18.2% (88/480) for IgG, and 7.5% (36/480) for IgM, with highly significant difference (P< 0.001). Rates were higher in males, with age-related differences observed for both IgG and IgM. While statistically significant differences were reported for IgM alone relates to gender. Regarding cytokines, seropositive individuals showed significantly higher IL-10 and IL-12 levels than controls: IL-10 (IgG: 85.88±9.67 vs 37.88±5.06; IgM: 80.95±13.19 vs 51.72±6.19 pg/mL) and IL-12 (IgG: 22.43±3.05 vs 10.08±1.03; IgM: 29.25±5.46 vs 11.83±1.06 pg/mL). Besides, TNF-α elevated in the IgM group only.
Conclusion: Elevated IL-10 and IL-12 levels in seropositive individuals suggest active immune modulation, while TNF-α dynamics point to stage-specific responses, higher in acute (IgM) infections. These immune patterns may influence reproductive health, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and immune monitoring to reduce potential fertility complications, particularly in early marriage.

Epidemiological Study of Toxocara Eggs in the Soil of Public Parks in Iran with an Emphasis on Climatic and Seasonal Diversity

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: Toxocariasis is a globally important zoonotic infection acquired through contact with soil contaminated by Toxocara eggs. Despite its relevance, comprehensive data on environmental contamination across Iran’s climatic zones are lacking. We assessed the presence of Toxocara eggs in public park soils with emphasis on climatic and seasonal variation.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from summer 2024 to spring 2025 in three climatic zones of Iran (Mountain, humid, and hot–dry). A total of 1,445 soil samples were randomly collected from a depth of 4–5 cm. Samples were examined using sucrose flotation and direct smear techniques. Microscopic identification of eggs was performed at 400× magnification.
Results: Toxocara eggs were detected in all regions studied. The humid zone showed the highest contamination rate, reaching 51% in summer. In the mountain zone, prevalence peaked in spring (44%) and was lowest in winter (12%). In the hot–dry zone, the highest contamination occurred in autumn (32%) and the lowest in summer (14%). These differences indicate the influence of climatic and seasonal conditions on egg survival.
Conclusion: The widespread detection of Toxocara eggs in public park soils highlights a considerable risk for human exposure, particularly among children. Improved environmental hygiene, responsible pet management, and public education are required. Future studies should incorporate molecular confirmation and longitudinal monitoring within a One Health framework to support targeted interventions.

High Parasitic Infections in the Laboratory Animals: Complications for the Research Outcomes and Zoonotic Importance

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: Laboratory animals are widely used for medical research; hence, their health status is a determinant of the outcome and success of the research. We aimed to investigate the possible infection of rodents with intestinal parasites in the Hamadan University of Medical Sciences animal house.
Methods: From October to November 2022, one hundred and twenty healthy laboratory rodents including 60 Wistar rats, 30 BALB/c mice, and 30 NMRI mice were randomly collected and examined for parasitic infections. The digestive tracts were removed and examined for infection by helminths and parasitic protozoa using naked eye inspection and microscopy.
Results: 75.8% (95% CI: 68.1–83.5%) of the rodents were infected by at least one helminth or protozoa. Protozoal infections (41.7%) with Giardia spp. (15%), Tritrichomonas spp.(10%), Blastocystis spp. (6.7%), Entamoeba spp. (5.9%), Cryptosporidium spp. (3.3%), and Eimeria spp. (0.8%) were observed relatively higher than helminthic infections (34.2%) with Syphacia obvelata (10.8%), Syphacia muris (10%), Aspiculuris tetraptera (7.5%), Hymenolepis nana (3.3%), and Hymenolepis diminuta (2.5%).
Conclusion: This study showed high parasitic infection without clinical signs in laboratory rodents. Therefore, monitoring these animals and improving their breeding conditions can eliminate the adverse effects of these parasitic infections in the animal research processes and improve the health of researchers and staff.

Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Toxoplasma gondii Infection among Women of Reproductive Age in Northeast Iran

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: We aimed to investigate the seroepidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii infection among women of childbearing age in Gonabad City, northeastern Iran, to assess the prevalence of infection and identify associated risk factors.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April 2022 in Gonabad, Khorasan Razavi Province, northeastern Iran. A total of 320 blood samples were collected from consenting pregnant women. Each participant provided 5 mL of blood for serological analysis to detect anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies. Demographic and behavioral data were collected using a structured questionnaire.
Results: The mean age of participants was 29.74 ± 10.9 years. Of the 320 samples, 58 (18.12%) tested positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies, while 1 (0.3%) tested positive for IgM antibodies. In addition, 81.9% of participants were seronegative. No significant associations were observed between anti-Toxoplasma antibodies and marital status, education level, vegetable washing practices, egg cooking methods, milk consumption, or fertility status. However, significant correlations were found between seropositivity and contact with cats (P= 0.01) and meat consumption (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: The majority of women of childbearing age in Gonabad remain susceptible to T. gondii infection, highlighting the risk of primary infection during pregnancy. To mitigate the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis, serological screening for Toxoplasma infection is recommended for women of childbearing age, coupled with targeted health education on transmission routes and preventive measures.

Molecular Characterization of Echinococcus granulosus Isolated from Clinical Samples of Patients Diagnosed with Hydatid Cysts in Eastern Türkiye

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: We aimed to investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of Echinococcus granulosususing various cyst materials fromtheparasiteobtained from humansineastern Türkiye.
Methods: We used cyst samples from 61 patients diagnosed with hydatid cysts by the Department of Thoracic Surgery and Department of Radiology at Atatürk University Faculty of Medicine between 2019 and 2023. Microscopic examination of protoscolex in cyst samples was performed, and, if available, the patients' ELISA IgG results were obtained from the hospital automation system. Two primer pairs revealed DNA regions specific to E. granulosus (12S rRNA and mt-COX1). Sequence analysis was performed on samples found positive for mt-COX1 PCR, and a phylogenetic tree was constructed from the resulting data.
Results: The rate of scolex in microscopic examination was 31/61 (50.8%), and the ELISA IgG positivity rate was 36/51 (70.6%). As a result of PCR analysis of 12S rRNA and mt-COX1 gene regions of 61 cyst samples, positivity was determined in 48 (78.7%) samples. As a result of PCR product sequence analysis, it was found that all samples were of the E. granulosus sensu stricto (G1, G3) genotype. Lung cyst alone was detected in 25 (40.9%) cases, while only liver cyst was detected in 15 (24.6%) cases. In 13 (21.3) cases, cysts were present in both the lungs and the liver.
Conclusion: The genotype of E. granulosus isolates obtained from cyst material from patients diagnosed with hydatid cysts in Erzurum and surrounding provinces was a domestic sheep strain (G1, G3).

The Prevalence of Urinary Schistosomiasis among School Children in Abougoudam and Chokoyan in Ouaddaï, Chad

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: Schistosomiasis is the second most prevalent global parasitic endemic, following malaria. It is caused by trematodes of the Schistosoma genus. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of urinary schistosomiasis and the associated risk factors in educational institutions.
Methods: The investigation was conducted in two primary schools in Abougoudam and Chokoyan City, Chad from December 2021 to February 2022. Parasitological analyses were performed at the laboratory of Abeche Provincial Hospital and Chemistry and Microbiology Laboratory of National Higher Institute of Science and Techniques of Abeche (INSTA) in Chad. In the study 273 scholars, namely 136 males (49.82%) and 137 girls (50.18%), from two primary schools in two localities, were enrolled.
Results: The overall prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium was 42.86%. Boys had a prevalence of 44.85%, while females had a prevalence of 40.88% (P>0.05). The prevalence in the Chokoyan locality was 53.38%, while it was 32.86% in the Abougoudam locality (P<0.05). The prevalence of pupils in the [5-10] age group was 29.73%, while that of the [11-15] age group was 51.85% (P<0.05). 100% of the pupils who were afflicted were administered 40 mg/kg praziquentel.
Conclusion: S. haematobium is present in both localities; therefore, health education campaigns should be implemented to prevent the onset of this parasitosis and to facilitate the establishment of a national program to combat helminthiasis. S. haematobium bilharziasis continues to be a significant public health issue in Chad.

Spirulina platensis as a Natural Antileishmanial Candidate: Effective Inhibition of LRV2+ and LRV2− Leishmania major Isolates In Vitro

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: Drug resistance and treatment failure in Leishmania infections are major concerns. Leishmania RNA virus 2 (LRV2) enhances host inflammation, indirectly favoring the parasite. Thus, alternative treatments are needed. Spirulina platensis has shown antimicrobial potential.
Methods: The alcoholic extract of S. platensis was tested against L. major with or without LRV2. Anti-promastigote activity was evaluated directly on parasites, cytotoxicity on J774.A1 macrophages, and anti-amastigote effects using the MTT assay.
Results: The extract showed significant, dose-dependent anti-leishmanial activity against both LRV2+ and LRV2− promastigotes (IC₅₀ = 62.5 μg/mL). J774.A1 cells remained viable at 62.5–2000 μg/mL (P = 0.0005). Amastigote growth was inhibited at 1000 and 2000 μg/mL in both strains.
Conclusion: S. platensis extract exhibits strong anti-leishmanial activity and low cytotoxicity, suggesting its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate against L. major, irrespective of LRV2 status. Further in vivo studies are warranted.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) Oil Loaded Solid Lipid Nano-Particle and Its Protoscolicidal Effects

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is considered as a neglected disease that imposes noticeable medical and economic challenges worldwide. Cinnamon oil (CO) has demonstrated potent antimicrobial effects even on hydatid cysts protoscoleces. We aimed to synthesize cinnamon oil- loaded Solid lipid nanoparticles (CO-SLNs) and to evaluate the protoscolicidal effects of this formulation.
Methods: CO-SLNs were prepared using an emulsification, probe sonication technique, incorporating natural lipids (cholesterol and lecithin). SLNs were evaluated based on particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, electron microscopy, encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and cell compatibility (MTT assay), etc. The scolicidal activity was assessed using the eosin exclusion test (eosin 0.1%) at concentrations of 0.5, 1,2,4 and 8 mg/ml of CO and CO-SLNs for time intervals of 10, 20, 60, 120 and 180 minutes and 24 h.
Results: Characterization of the CO-SLNs showed an average size of 337.6 nm with PDI 0.77 and zeta potential of -26 mV and EE of 83.49% with round morphology. The MTT assay showed a higher cell viability in CO-SLNs compared to CO. A 100% mortality rate of PCs was observed for CO-SLNs at a concentration of 8 mg/ml after 120 minutes and for free CO at a concentration of 8 mg/ml after 30 minutes.
Conclusion: CO-SLNs exhibited a milder scolicidal activity than free CO, which may be due to the sustained release of the oil from SLNs, resulting in a longer effective period and lower toxic effects on normal cells.

Molecular Identification of Nematodes (Superfamily: Strongylida) Traced in Herbivores Excrement Found in Wildlife from Western Iran

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: In wildlife, the identification of parasitic infections should be pursued seriously in countries facing endangered species of animals in their geographical territories. We aimed to increase understanding of the possible role of wildlife herbivore reservoirs in the emergence of helminth infections in Kermanshah Province, western Iran.
Methods: Sixty-five feces from Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa) (N = 36 samples) and wild goat (Capra aegagrus) (N = 14 samples) were investigated. The samples were microscopically examined for gastrointestinal helminth eggs, and genomic DNA was extracted from the identified eggs. The internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of ribosomal DNA was amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequences confirmed the species identity.
Results: The most common species circulating in the hosts were Teladorsagia circumcincta, Marshallagia spp., and Nematodirus oiratianus, all of which are reported in the wildlife in western Iran for the first time.
Conclusion: These findings emphasize the importance of continuously assessing the parasite status of wildlife and similar routine surveillance in domestic environments to detect and manage potential zoonotic parasite species.

Acanthamoeba Spp. Detection in Contact Lens Wearers and Non-Wearers in Iraq

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Background: Acanthamoeba spp. are free-living amoebae found in a broad range of environments. Acanthamoeba spp. are responsible for about 20% of keratitis infections in contact lens wearers. We aimed to detect Acanthamoeba spp. and determined the prevalence of Acanthamoeba spp. in contact lens wearers to increase health awareness of the risks of spreading it.
Methods: The current study included an investigation of free-living opportunistic amoeba Acanthamoeba spp. in eye swab samples among students in the College of Sciences at the University of Thi-Qar/Iraq. Eighty-eight samples were collected from the eyes of both sexes and for both lens wearers and non-lens wearers from January to April 2024.
Results: The current study results showed that the percentage of Acanthamoeba was 4.5% (4/88). All positive cases were in females who were lens wearers only, and no cases were recorded in males or females who had no contact lens. Acanthamoeba spp. were identified morphologically based on characteristics of active trophozoites and cyst forms, and molecular identified by conventional PCR using Acanthamoeba primers JPD1/ JPD2. Additionally, sequencing analysis was performed on positive samples and their alignment sequences were analyzed using BLAST. The results showed a homologous identity (100%) for four samples with the reference isolate Acanthamoeba spp. 18S ribosomal RNA gene )MK390853.1). It was registered as one isolate of Acanthamoeba spp. in gene bank with accession number (PQ661179.1).
Conclusion: the current findings indicate the prevalence of Acanthamoeba spp. in contact lens wearers, which is a health risk, especially in females.

Giardia lamblia Mimicking Celiac Disease in an Immunocompromised Patient: A Case Report

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Giardia lamblia infection can clinically and histopathologically mimic celiac disease. This challenge is particularly pronounced in immunocompromised patients, where serological tests may be negative and mucosal changes more exaggerated. A 52-year-old female with immunodeficiency presented with chronic diarrhea unresponsive to a gluten-free diet. Initial duodenal biopsies were reported as Marsh 3b, and celiac disease was considered in the first place despite negative serology. The first stool examination was negative for parasites. On repeat endoscopy, duodenal nodularity with intraepithelial lymphocytosis and nodular lymphoid hyperplasia was observed. Careful re-evaluation of biopsy slides and subsequent stool examination revealed G. lamblia trophozoites, confirming the diagnosis. Immunodeficiency complicated the diagnostic process by reducing antibody production, resulting in negative serology, and by allowing chronic infection to induce celiac-like mucosal alterations. Moreover, the initial false-negative stool test and elevated fecal calprotectin levels further suggested inflammatory bowel disease, adding to the diagnostic challenge. In patients with persistent symptoms despite adherence to a gluten-free diet, before diagnosing refractory celiac disease, parasitic agents particularly G.lamblia should be excluded in the first place. Repeated stool examinations and meticulous histopathological evaluation of duodenal biopsies are crucial for reaching the correct diagnosis.

Anaphylactic Shock Following Spontaneous Rupture of Pulmonary Hydatid Cyst: A Case Report

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

We present a case of a 31-year-old rural Iranian man with no prior medical history who developed sudden-onset dyspnea, generalized urticaria, and hypotension. Based on clinical findings and unstable vital signs, anaphylactic shock was suspected and immediate treatment with oxygen, intravenous fluids, and intramuscular epinephrine was initiated. Following stabilization, a spiral chest CT scan revealed a large hydatid cyst with lower lobe collapse, inner membrane detachment near the pericardium, pericardial effusion, and hydropneumothorax. The patient was referred for thoracic surgery, which was successfully performed. He was discharged in stable condition with albendazole therapy and follow-up. Although rare, anaphylactic shock due to hydatid cyst rupture should be considered in endemic regions. In the emergency setting, prompt differentiation from other acute conditions such as asthma, angioedema, or pulmonary embolism is essential to avoid delays in life-saving interventions. Prompt administration of epinephrine and surgical management are essential for favorable outcomes.

Investigation of Strongyloidiasis Transmission from Infected Mother to Newborn Postpartum: A Case Report

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

Strongyloidiasis is a disease caused by the soil-transmitted nematode Strongyloides stercoralis. It is considered a neglected disease that can lead to long-term disability, growth retardation in children, complications during pregnancy, and adverse effects on the fetus. In the present case report, we examined a case of strongyloidiasis in a newborn born to a mother with confirmed strongyloidiasis during pregnancy, diagnosed by serological, parasitological, and molecular methods. A 38-year-old woman at 35 weeks of gestation from a rural area in Rasht, Guilan Province, Iran, presented with gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea, abdominal pain) and severe dyspnea since the fourth month of pregnancy. Her medical history included hypothyroidism and a pituitary microadenoma. Laboratory findings revealed a peripheral blood eosinophil count of 2%. Stool examination (direct smear, formalin-ethyl acetate concentration, and agar plate culture) and serological testing (ELISA for S. stercoralis antibodies) confirmed strongyloidiasis, further validated by molecular methods. Due to potential risks of anti-helminthic drugs during pregnancy, treatment was deferred until one month post-delivery, after breastfeeding cessation. The newborn’s stool and breast milk were tested parasitologically and molecularly one month after birth, with negative results, indicating no infection. Although mother-to-fetus transmission has not been definitively established, the fetus is considered a high-risk group. Pregnant women, due to their immunocompromised state, are also classified as a high-risk population and may develop disseminated strongyloidiasis or hyperinfection syndrome. Given the adverse effects of antiparasitic treatment during pregnancy, routine serological screening for S. stercoralis in women before pregnancy in endemic areas is recommended to enable early intervention and mitigate complications, safeguarding maternal and fetal health.

Acute Fascioliasis as a Leading Cause of Mortality in Free-Ranging Flocks of Domestic Sheep in Babol Countryside, Mazandaran Province, Iran: A Case Report

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

In July 2021, the School of Veterinary Medicine at Amol University of Special Modern Technologies was informed of high mortality within a sheep flock. Out of 200 animals, 24 sheep died within a few days. Due to the rapid deaths, poisoning was initially suspected but ruled out after clinical observation, sampling, and necropsy. A full herd assessment was performed, and blood and fecal samples were collected from lambs and adults for laboratory analysis. Blood samples were drawn via jugular venipuncture; fecal samples were examined using the Modified McMaster technique to detect helminth eggs or protozoan oocysts. For hematological and biochemical evaluation, blood was divided into EDTA and plain tubes. Serum analysis revealed a significant elevation in AST levels, indicating hepatic tissue damage associated with the parenchymal migration of juvenile Fasciola hepatica during acute fascioliasis. Infected sheep showed a marked reduction in serum SOD activity (P<0.001) and a significant increase in MDA levels (P<0.001) compared with non-infected animals, reflecting oxidative stress. These findings suggested that environmental and climatic conditions at the time favored the spread of fascioliasis. Considering the zoonotic potential and widespread occurrence of F. hepatica, effective control and preventive strategies are essential. Recommended measures include wetland drainage, strategic deworming, and controlling snail and slug populations to limit transmission.

A Rare Clinical Puzzle to Be Solved: Pulmonary Hydatid Cysts in Kidney Transplant Recipients

2025-12-07T03:04:38+0330

No Abstract. Not Abstract.