Journal Description
Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease
Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal of tropical medicine and infectious disease published monthly online by MDPI. It is the official journal of the Australasian College of Tropical Medicine (ACTM) and its Joint Faculties of Travel Medicine and Expedition and Wilderness Medicine.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, Informit, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Parasitology) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Immunology and Microbiology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.1 (2022)
Latest Articles
Genetic Structure of Introduced Plasmodium vivax Malaria Isolates in Greece, 2015–2019
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050102 (registering DOI) - 02 May 2024
Abstract
►
Show Figures
Greece has been malaria-free since 1974, after an intense malaria control program. However, as Greece hosts migrant populations from P. vivax malaria-endemic countries, there is a risk of introducing the disease to specific vulnerable and receptive areas of the country. Knowledge of the
[...] Read more.
Greece has been malaria-free since 1974, after an intense malaria control program. However, as Greece hosts migrant populations from P. vivax malaria-endemic countries, there is a risk of introducing the disease to specific vulnerable and receptive areas of the country. Knowledge of the genetic diversity of P. vivax populations is essential for understanding the dynamics of malaria disease transmission in a given region. We used nine highly polymorphic markers to genotype 124 P. vivax-infected archived DNA samples from human blood specimens referred to the NMRL from all over Greece throughout 2015–2019. The genotypic variability of the samples studied was noted, as they comprised several unique haplotypes, indicative of the importation of a large number of different P. vivax strains in the country. However, only a few events of local transmission were recorded. Genotyping revealed and confirmed the same clusters as those identified through epidemiological investigation. In only one introduction event was the index case found. No sustained/ongoing malaria transmissions in/between the studied regions or during consecutive years or additional foci of local transmission were observed. Genotyping is an important component in assisting malaria surveillance, as it provides information concerning the patterns of introduction and the effectiveness of implemented malaria control and elimination measures.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Community-Based Intervention for Active Detection and Provision of Single-Dose Rifampicin Post-Exposure Prophylaxis to Household Contacts of Leprosy in Bolivia
by
Abundio Baptista Mora, Nimer Ortuño-Gutiérrez, Deisy Zurita Paniagua, Carlos Hurtado Solares, Anil Fastenau and Christa Kasang
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050101 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Background: To achieve zero leprosy cases in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, we designed a community-based active detection and provision of single-dose rifampicin post-exposure prophylaxis (SDR-PEP) to household contacts with new leprosy patients. Methods: From July to August 2021, we assessed the current knowledge, attitude,
[...] Read more.
Background: To achieve zero leprosy cases in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, we designed a community-based active detection and provision of single-dose rifampicin post-exposure prophylaxis (SDR-PEP) to household contacts with new leprosy patients. Methods: From July to August 2021, we assessed the current knowledge, attitude, and practices through structured interviews and focus group discussions with community representatives and health staff. This was followed by sensitization sessions, the training of health staff, and the reinforcement of referral mechanisms. Teams, including health staff and community volunteers, visited all new leprosy patients detected in 2021–2023 and household contacts. Results: Among 115 community representatives, knowledge about leprosy etiology was attributed to non-biological factors (74%); fear accounted for 77%, and access to care was perceived as weak (74%), but the outlook was improved by SDR-PEP (80%). Among the 217 health staff interviewed, the programmatic barriers identified were a lack of referral feedback (67%), limited supplies for diagnosis and prevention, and ineffective training (64%). We visited 70 new patients and 258 household contacts. The median age in household contacts was 25 years old; 49% were women, 98% were eligible for SDR-PEP, and all who were eligible accepted it. Those who were non-eligible included one tuberculosis patient and six newly detected leprosy patients (23‰). Conclusions: A community-based intervention was successful in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Misbeliefs and a lack of knowledge were identified as barriers. Programmatic components should be reinforced for SDR-PEP extension.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Community Engagement and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs))
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Impact of the Stool-Based Xpert Test on Childhood Tuberculosis Diagnosis in Selected States in Nigeria
by
Nkiru Nwokoye, Bethrand Odume, Peter Nwadike, Ikechukwu Anaedobe, Zirra Mangoro, Michael Umoren, Chidubem Ogbudebe, Ogoamaka Chukwuogo, Sani Useni, Debby Nongo, Rupert Eneogu, Emeka Elom, Petra De Haas and Mustapha Gidado
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050100 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Background: In Nigeria, most children with tuberculosis (TB) present at primary health clinics where there are limited personnel skilled in collecting appropriate respiratory specimens from those who cannot produce sputum. KNCV Nigeria, in collaboration with the National Tuberculosis Control Program, implemented a modified
[...] Read more.
Background: In Nigeria, most children with tuberculosis (TB) present at primary health clinics where there are limited personnel skilled in collecting appropriate respiratory specimens from those who cannot produce sputum. KNCV Nigeria, in collaboration with the National Tuberculosis Control Program, implemented a modified simple, one-step (SOS), stool-based Xpert MTB/RIF method for diagnosis of TB in children who cannot expectorate sputum. We evaluated the impact of its implementation on childhood TB diagnosis. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted across 14 selected states using secondary data of children presumed to have TB. Stool was collected from children presumed to have TB and processed using Xpert. Result: Out of 52,117 presumptive TB cases, 52% were male and 59.7% were under 5 years old. A total of 2440 (5%) cases were diagnosed with TB, and 2307 (95%) were placed on treatment. Annual TB notifications increased significantly after the introduction of the stool-based Xpert test when compared to those in the pre-implementation period. Increasing contributions from stool testing were observed throughout the implementation period, except in 2020 during the COVID-19 era. Overall, stool Xpert testing improved childhood TB notification in the studied states. Interventions aimed at awareness creation, capacity building, and active case finding improved the performance of the test.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effectiveness of Using AI-Driven Hotspot Mapping for Active Case Finding of Tuberculosis in Southwestern Nigeria
by
Abiola Alege, Sumbul Hashmi, Rupert Eneogu, Vincent Meurrens, Anne-Laure Budts, Michael Pedro, Olugbenga Daniel, Omokhoudu Idogho, Austin Ihesie, Matthys Gerhardus Potgieter, Obioma Chijioke Akaniro, Omosalewa Oyelaran, Mensah Olalekan Charles and Aderonke Agbaje
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050099 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Nigeria is among the top five countries that have the highest gap between people reported as diagnosed and estimated to have developed tuberculosis (TB). To bridge this gap, there is a need for innovative approaches to identify geographical areas at high
[...] Read more.
Background: Nigeria is among the top five countries that have the highest gap between people reported as diagnosed and estimated to have developed tuberculosis (TB). To bridge this gap, there is a need for innovative approaches to identify geographical areas at high risk of TB transmission and targeted active case finding (ACF) interventions. Leveraging community-level data together with granular sociodemographic contextual information can unmask local hotspots that could be otherwise missed. This work evaluated whether this approach helps to reach communities with higher numbers of undiagnosed TB. Methodology: A retrospective analysis of the data generated from an ACF intervention program in four southwestern states in Nigeria was conducted. Wards (the smallest administrative level in Nigeria) were further subdivided into smaller population clusters. ACF sites and their respective TB screening outputs were mapped to these population clusters. This data were then combined with open-source high-resolution contextual data to train a Bayesian inference model. The model predicted TB positivity rates on the community level (population cluster level), and these were visualised on a customised geoportal for use by the local teams to identify communities at high risk of TB transmission and plan ACF interventions. The TB positivity yield (proportion) observed at model-predicted hotspots was compared with the yield obtained at other sites identified based on aggregated notification data. Results: The yield in population clusters that were predicted to have high TB positivity rates by the model was at least 1.75 times higher (p-value < 0.001) than the yield in other locations in all four states. Conclusions: The community-level Bayesian predictive model has the potential to guide ACF implementers to high-TB-positivity areas for finding undiagnosed TB in the communities, thus improving the efficiency of interventions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tuberculosis: Novel Insights and Approaches to Tackle an Ancient Disease)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Toxoplasma gondii in a Remote Subsistence Hunting-Based Indigenous Community of the Peruvian Amazon
by
María Fernanda Menajovsky, Johan Espunyes, Gabriela Ulloa, Maritza Calderon, Andrea Diestra, Edith Malaga, Carmen Muñoz, Stephanie Montero, Andres G. Lescano, Meddly L. Santolalla, Oscar Cabezón and Pedro Mayor
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050098 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous zoonotic protozoan parasite that infects a wide variety range of warm-blooded animals. This study describes the epidemiological scenario of T. gondii in an indigenous community that relies on subsistence hunting in a well-conserved and isolated area of the
[...] Read more.
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous zoonotic protozoan parasite that infects a wide variety range of warm-blooded animals. This study describes the epidemiological scenario of T. gondii in an indigenous community that relies on subsistence hunting in a well-conserved and isolated area of the Peruvian Amazon. The high seropositivity against T. gondii in humans (83.3% IgG and 6.1% IgM), wild mammals (30.45%, 17 species), peri-domestic rodents (10.0% Rattus sp.), and domestic animals (94.1% dogs and 100% cats) indicates the existence of a sylvatic cycle in the community under study. Individual age was found to be positively associated with IgG detection against T. gondii but not with IgM. It is estimated that each family consumed 5.67 infected animals per year with terrestrial species having higher infective rates than arboreal species. The main risk factors included improper handling and cooking of wild meat, poor hygiene practices, and feeding uncooked offal to domestic animals. This scenario results in a continuous process of infection and reinfection within the indigenous community with cats, dogs, and peri-domestic animals becoming infected through the ingestion of infected raw viscera. Our results emphasize the need to promote safe food handling practices and disposal of waste materials from hunted animals in such communities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Community Engagement and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs))
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic in a Small-Sized Municipality in Ceará State, Brazil: Temporal and Spatial Evolution
by
Jaliana Holanda Nascimento dos Santos, Carlos Henrique Alencar and Jorg Heukelbach
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050097 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Data on the temporal and spatial evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and local control measures and their effects on morbidity and mortality patterns in rural Brazil are scarce. We analyzed the data from case notification systems, epidemiological investigation reports, and municipal decrees in Itapajé, a
[...] Read more.
Data on the temporal and spatial evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and local control measures and their effects on morbidity and mortality patterns in rural Brazil are scarce. We analyzed the data from case notification systems, epidemiological investigation reports, and municipal decrees in Itapajé, a small municipality in Ceará State in northeast Brazil. For spatial and spatio-temporal analyses, cases and deaths were mapped. There were a total of 3020 cases of COVID-19, recorded between April 2020 and December 2021; 135 (4.5%) died. The cumulative incidence and mortality rates were 5650.3 cases and 252.6 deaths per 100,000 people, respectively. The index case of SARS-CoV-2 in Itapajé was diagnosed in March 2020. The first peak of cases and deaths occurred in May 2020. The second wave peaked in May 2021, with the highest number of deaths in March 2021. According to the spatial analysis, the highest density of cases and deaths occurred in the central urban areas. In these areas, there were also the clusters of highest risk according to the spatio-temporal analyses. The municipal government issued 69 decrees on restriction measures, surveillance, and the maintenance of social isolation as a response to the pandemic. The spread of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Itapajé mirrored the dynamics in large metropolitan regions, going from central neighborhoods of low socio-economic status to the wealthier peripheries.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19: Current Situation and Future Trends)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Determinants of Undernutrition in Schoolchildren in the Kilombero District, South-Eastern Tanzania
by
Elihaika G. Minja, Emmanuel C. Mrimi, Winfrida P. Mponzi, Getrud J. Mollel, Christin Lang, Johanna Beckmann, Markus Gerber, Uwe Pühse, Kurt Z. Long, Honorati Masanja, Fredros O. Okumu, Marceline F. Finda and Jürg Utzinger
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050096 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Childhood undernutrition is a major issue in low- and middle-income countries, affecting the health, well-being, and educational outcomes of schoolchildren. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of stunting, wasting, and underweight among schoolchildren in peri-urban areas in the south-eastern
[...] Read more.
Childhood undernutrition is a major issue in low- and middle-income countries, affecting the health, well-being, and educational outcomes of schoolchildren. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of stunting, wasting, and underweight among schoolchildren in peri-urban areas in the south-eastern part of Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 930 children aged 6–12 years from four primary schools from July to August 2019. The WHO Anthro Survey Analyzer was employed to estimate the prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight, while logistic regression analyses examined sociodemographic background, malaria infection, anaemia, anthropometric measures, and dietary diversity score as potential factors. The prevalence of stunting, wasting, underweight, overweight, and obesity was 11.8%, 4.3%, 3.9%, 11.1%, and 2.0%, respectively. Overall, 1.5% of the children had malaria, as determined by rapid diagnostic tests, and 0.4% had severe anaemia. Univariate analysis indicated higher odds of undernutrition among children aged 9–12 compared to their younger peers. Stunting was more common among children with low and medium dietary diversity. Anaemia was found in 11.2% of schoolchildren, and severe anaemia was associated with wasting. Multivariate analysis revealed that age and low dietary diversity were significantly associated with undernutrition. These findings emphasise the need for school-based health and nutrition programmes targeting children beyond the age of 5 to improve their nutritional status and mitigate potential adverse effects on health, cognition, and academic achievement. Regular assessment of the nutritional status of schoolchildren is warranted.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Immunological Characteristics of Hepatic Dendritic Cells in Patients and Mouse Model with Liver Echinococcus multilocularis Infection
by
Hui Wang, Yinshi Li, Qian Yu, Mingkun Wang, Abidan Ainiwaer, Na Tang, Xuran Zheng, Adilai Duolikun, Bingqing Deng, Jing Li, Yujuan Shen and Chuanshan Zhang
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050095 (registering DOI) - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The cestode Echinococcus multilocularis, which mainly dwells in the liver, leads to a serious parasitic liver disease called alveolar echinococcosis (AE). Despite the increased attention drawn to the immunosuppressive microenvironment formed by hepatic AE tissue, the immunological characteristics of hepatic dendritic cells (DCs)
[...] Read more.
The cestode Echinococcus multilocularis, which mainly dwells in the liver, leads to a serious parasitic liver disease called alveolar echinococcosis (AE). Despite the increased attention drawn to the immunosuppressive microenvironment formed by hepatic AE tissue, the immunological characteristics of hepatic dendritic cells (DCs) in the AE liver microenvironment have not been fully elucidated. Here, we profiled the immunophenotypic characteristics of hepatic DC subsets in both clinical AE patients and a mouse model. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) analysis of four AE patient specimens revealed that greater DC numbers were present within perilesional liver tissues and that the distributions of cDC and pDC subsets in the liver and periphery were different. cDCs highly expressed the costimulatory molecule CD86, the immune checkpoint molecule CD244, LAG3, CTLA4, and the checkpoint ligand CD48, while pDCs expressed these genes at low frequencies. Flow cytometric analysis of hepatic DC subsets in an E. multilocularis infection mouse model demonstrated that the number of cDCs significantly increased after parasite infection, and a tolerogenic phenotype characterized by a decrease in CD40 and CD80 expression levels was observed at an early stage, whereas an activated phenotype characterized by an increase in CD86 expression levels was observed at a late stage. Moreover, the expression profiles of major immune checkpoint molecules (CD244 and LAG3) and ligands (CD48) on hepatic DC subsets in a mouse model exhibited the same pattern as those in AE patients. Notably, the cDC and pDC subsets in the E. multilocularis infection group exhibited higher expression levels of PD-L1 and CD155 than those in the control group, suggesting the potential of these subsets to impair T cell function. These findings may provide valuable information for investigating the role of hepatic DC subsets in the AE microenvironment and guiding DC targeting treatments for AE.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Echinococcosis: From Parasite–Host Interaction to Rapid Detection)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Low Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium vivax Circumsporozoite Surface Protein in Clinical Isolates from Southern Thailand
by
Tachin Khulmanee, Thanyapit Thita, Kanyanan Kritsiriwutinan, Usa Boonyuen, Aminoh Saai, Kanjana Inkabjan, Rimi Chakrabarti, Pradipsinh K. Rathod, Srivicha Krudsood, Mathirut Mungthin and Rapatbhorn Patrapuvich
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050094 (registering DOI) - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The genetic diversity within the circumsporozoite surface protein (PvCSP) of Plasmodium vivax, the predominant malaria species in Thailand, is primarily observed in the northwestern region along the Thailand–Myanmar border. However, as P. vivax cases shift to southern provinces, particularly Yala Province near
[...] Read more.
The genetic diversity within the circumsporozoite surface protein (PvCSP) of Plasmodium vivax, the predominant malaria species in Thailand, is primarily observed in the northwestern region along the Thailand–Myanmar border. However, as P. vivax cases shift to southern provinces, particularly Yala Province near the Thailand–Malaysia border, PvCSP diversity remains understudied. Between 2018 and 2020, 89 P. vivax isolates were collected in Yala Province, a significant malaria hotspot. Employing polymerase chain reaction amplification, restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), and DNA sequencing, the gene encoding PvCSP (Pvcsp) was analyzed. All Yala P. vivax isolates belonged to the VK210 type, distinct from strains in the western region near the Myanmar border. The central repeat region of Pvcsp revealed two common peptide repeat motifs—GDRADGQPA and GDRAAGQPA—across all southern isolates. Sequence analysis identified two subtypes, with S1 more prevalent (92%) than S2 (8%). This study underscores the limited diversity of VK210 variants of P. vivax populations in southern Thailand. These baseline findings facilitate monitoring for potential new parasite variants, aiding in the future control and management of P. vivax in the region.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Segmentation, Rotation, and Geographic Delivery Approaches for Deployment of Multiple First-Line Treatment (MFT) to Respond to Antimalarial Drug Resistance in Africa: A Qualitative Study in Seven Sub-Sahara Countries
by
Celine Audibert, Adam Aspinall, Andre-Marie Tchouatieu and Pierre Hugo
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050093 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Several studies recently confirmed the emergence of resistance to antimalarial drugs in sub-Saharan Africa. Multiple first-line treatment (MFT) is one of the measures envisaged to respond to the emergence and spread of this resistance. The aim of this study was to identify
[...] Read more.
Background: Several studies recently confirmed the emergence of resistance to antimalarial drugs in sub-Saharan Africa. Multiple first-line treatment (MFT) is one of the measures envisaged to respond to the emergence and spread of this resistance. The aim of this study was to identify the perceived advantages and disadvantages of several MFT deployment strategies and to better understand potential implementation drivers and barriers. Methods: A qualitative survey was conducted in seven sub-Saharan countries amongst key opinion leaders, national decision makers, and end users. A total of 200 individual interviews were conducted and findings were analyzed following a thematic inductive approach. Results: From a policy perspective, the new MFT intervention would require endorsement at the global, national, and regional levels to ensure its inclusion in guidelines. Funding of the MFT intervention could be a bottleneck due to costs associated with additional training of healthcare workers, adaptation of drug delivery mechanisms, and higher costs of drugs. Concerning the MFT deployment strategies, a slight preference for the segmentation strategy was expressed over the rotation and geographic approaches, due to the perception that a segmentation approach is already in place at country level. Conclusions: The findings highlighted the need for a collective approach to MFT deployment through the engagement of stakeholders at all levels of malaria management.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Prevention of Malaria in Pregnant Women and Its Effects on Maternal and Child Health, the Case of Centre Hospitalier de Kingasani II in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
by
Japhet Kabalu Tshiongo, Trésor Zola Matuvanga, Patrick Mitashi, Vivi Maketa, Henk D. F. H. Schallig, Petra F. Mens, Hypolite Muhindo Mavoko and Junior Matangila Rika
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050092 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate scientific evidence of the benefit of the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and Intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) on the birth weight of newborns and the hemoglobin level of the mother when used to prevent malaria during pregnancy. This
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate scientific evidence of the benefit of the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and Intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) on the birth weight of newborns and the hemoglobin level of the mother when used to prevent malaria during pregnancy. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 467 hospitalized women in the Maternity Ward of Centre Hospitalier de Kingasani II, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that was pre-tested during a face-to-face interview. Apart from basic statistics, the chi-square test was used to compare proportions. Multivariate analysis (logistic regression) was used to identify variables significantly associated with the 95% confidence interval (CI). The ITN ownership rate was 81% (95% CI: 77–84) and the ITN use rate was 66% (95% CI: 62–70). Sixty-five percent (95% CI: 60–69) reported having received at least three doses of IPT during pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyramethemine (IPTp-SP). There was a statistically significant difference in hemoglobin levels between hospitalized women who did not use the ITN (9.4 g/dL IIQ: 8.7–9.9) and those who did (11 g/dL IIQ: 9.8–12.2). The non-use of the ITN was associated with low birth weight (aOR = 3.6; 95% CI: 2.1–6.2; p < 0.001) and anemia in pregnant women (cOR = 2.41; 95% CI: 1.16–5.01; p = 0.018). The use of ITN and taking at least three doses of ITP during pregnancy are associated with good birth weight. The number of doses of IPTp received during antenatal care is associated with the maternal hemoglobin level in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Comparative Study of Colorimetric In Situ Hybridization and Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction for Diagnosis of Infection by Leishmania infantum in Dogs in Formalin-Fixed and Paraffin-Embedded Skin
by
Ricardo Gonçalves Silva, Matti Kiupel, Ingeborg Maria Langohr, Annabel Wise, Sandro Antonio Pereira, Natália Pedra Gonçalves, Greice Maria Silva da Conceição, Luiz Cláudio Ferreira, Monique Paiva de Campos, Luciana de Freitas Campos Miranda, Fabiano Borges Figueiredo, Raquel de Vasconcellos Carvalhaes de Oliveira, Lucas Keidel and Rodrigo Caldas Menezes
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040091 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
The zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum and dogs are reservoirs for this parasite. For the diagnosis of Leishmania at the species level in dogs in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin (FFPES) samples, colorimetric in situ hybridization (CISH) and quantitative real-time
[...] Read more.
The zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum and dogs are reservoirs for this parasite. For the diagnosis of Leishmania at the species level in dogs in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin (FFPES) samples, colorimetric in situ hybridization (CISH) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) are options, but their sensitivities are not well established. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the sensitivity of these two techniques in FFPES for the diagnosis of the L. infantum infection in dogs using culture as the reference standard. The FFPES of 48 dogs with cutaneous infection by L. infantum confirmed by culture and by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis were examined by CISH and qPCR using specific probes for L. infantum. The sensitivities of qPCR, CISH and their combination were, respectively, 77.0%, 58.0% and 83.3%. The sensitivities of qPCR in dogs with and without clinical signs were, respectively, 74.2% and 82.4%. The sensitivities of CISH in dogs with and without clinical signs were, respectively, 61.3% and 52.9%. The CISH and qPCR showed satisfactory sensitivities for the diagnosis of L. infantum in the FFPES of dogs, even in dogs without clinical signs, and their combination increases the sensitivity for this diagnosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Malaria Transmission in the Autonomous Indigenous Regions of Panama, Central America, 2015–2022
by
Alberto Cumbrera, José Eduardo Calzada, Luis Fernando Chaves and Lisbeth Amarilis Hurtado
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040090 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Despite ongoing efforts for elimination, malaria continues to be a major public health problem in the Republic of Panama. For effective elimination, it is key that malaria foci and areas of high transmission are identified in a timely manner. Here, we study malaria
[...] Read more.
Despite ongoing efforts for elimination, malaria continues to be a major public health problem in the Republic of Panama. For effective elimination, it is key that malaria foci and areas of high transmission are identified in a timely manner. Here, we study malaria transmission records for the 2015–2022 period, a time when cases have increased by a factor of ten. Using several methods to study spatial and spatiotemporal malaria confirmed case clusters at the level of localities, including LISA and scan, we found that cases are clustered across indigenous villages located within the autonomous indigenous regions of Ngäbe–Buglé, Guna Yala, and Embera, with the latter on the eastern border of Panama (with Colombia). We discuss the different factors that might be shaping the marked increase in malaria transmission associated with these clusters, which include an inflow of malaria-exposed migrating populations hoping to reach the USA, insufficient health services, and the lack of culturally sensitive actionable tools to reduce malaria exposure among the ethnically diverse and impoverished indigenous populations of Panama.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Prevalence of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in HIV-Positive and Diabetic Patients in Sinaloa, Mexico: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
by
Analy Aispuro Pérez, Ulises Osuna-Martínez, Jose Angel Espinoza-Gallardo, Luis Alfredo Dorantes-Álvarez, Gerardo Kenny Inzunza-Leyva, Kimberly Estefania Dorantes-Bernal and Geovanna Nallely Quiñonez-Bastidas
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040089 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are among the main risk factors for the development of TB and increase the risk of drug-resistant TB developing (DR-TB).
[...] Read more.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are among the main risk factors for the development of TB and increase the risk of drug-resistant TB developing (DR-TB). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of DR-TB in patients with HIV or T2DM in Sinaloa, Mexico. This was an observational and cross-sectional study. The analysis was conducted using the clinical data of patients registered on the National Epidemiological Surveillance System for TB (SINAVE/PUI-TB) platform with a presumed diagnosis of TB during 2019 to 2021 in Sinaloa, Mexico. The prevalence of DR-TB was estimated in HIV and T2DM patients, as well as the odds ratios for their sociodemographic variables, using the Chi-square test. There were 2, 4, and 4 TB-HIV cases and 2, 6, and 9 TB-T2DM cases during 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively, whereas there were 2 and 1 DRTB-HIV and DRTB-T2DM cases, respectively. The results indicated that the WHO guidelines for DR-TB were not properly applied to this high-risk population. Hence, the appropriate application of guidelines for TB and DR-TB detection in these patients needs to be immediately implemented by the State health system.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Burden of Tuberculosis in Different Countries)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCase Report
Plasma Circulating Cell-Free DNA Facilitated the Detection of an Alveolar Echinococcosis Patient Initially Misdiagnosed as Cystic Echinococcosis: A Case Report
by
Yanping Zhao, Yiyang Shi, Shu Shen, Yan Zhang, Gengfu Wei and Xin Jin
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040088 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Echinococcosis, especially alveolar echinococcosis (AE), is becoming an emerging/re-emerging disease with a growing number of cases reported globally. The diagnosis of echinococcosis is based mainly on imaging, which may be challenging when the image presentation is atypical. We reported one patient with suspected
[...] Read more.
Echinococcosis, especially alveolar echinococcosis (AE), is becoming an emerging/re-emerging disease with a growing number of cases reported globally. The diagnosis of echinococcosis is based mainly on imaging, which may be challenging when the image presentation is atypical. We reported one patient with suspected cystic echinococcosis (CE) by imaging. The cell-free DNA (cfDNA) obtained from sequencing the patient’s plasma before the operation showed that this patient probably had AE with 45 reads mapped to the Echinococcus multilocularis reference genome (Read-Pairs Per Million = 0.24). The patients underwent surgery, and the pathological result showed that the patient had AE. The conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of her lesion sample extraction also indicated that the infection was caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. The follow-up ultrasound after three months indicated no recurrence. We demonstrated that the differentiation of CE and AE by imaging may not be that easy, with further elaboration on the differentiation between AE and CE in different aspects. We demonstrated that it is possible to use patients’ plasma cfDNA mapped to Echinococcus references before the operation to obtain the objective clue of the lesion to facilitate diagnosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Echinococcosis: From Parasite–Host Interaction to Rapid Detection)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Global, Regional and National Burden of Human Cystic Echinococcosis from 1990 to 2019: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
by
Tian Tian, Liyuan Miao, Wei Wang and Xiaonong Zhou
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040087 - 17 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a neglected tropical parasitic disease that poses huge disease, social and economic burdens worldwide; however, there has been little knowledge on the global morbidity, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of CE until now. This study aimed to
[...] Read more.
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a neglected tropical parasitic disease that poses huge disease, social and economic burdens worldwide; however, there has been little knowledge on the global morbidity, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of CE until now. This study aimed to collect the most up-to-date data about the global, regional and national disease burden due to CE from 1990 to 2019 and to project trends in the next 10 years. Methods: We measured the global, regional and national morbidity, mortality and DALYs of CE from 1990 to 2019 based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) data, and we examined the correlation between socioeconomic development levels and the disease burden of CE. In addition, the disease burden due to CE was projected from 2020 to 2030. Results: The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of CE reduced from 2.65/105 [95% UI: (1.87/105 to 3.7/105)] in 1990 to 2.6/105 [95% UI: (1.72/105 to 3.79/105)] in 2019 (EAPC = −0.18%). The number of deaths, DALYs, age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized DALY rate due to CE all showed a tendency to decline from 1990 to 2019. A higher disease burden of CE was measured in women than in men in 2019. There was a significant difference in the ASMR of CE by region according to the socio-demographic index (SDI), and lower burdens of CE were estimated in high-SDI regions. The global ASIR of CE is projected to decline from 2020 to 2030; however, the ASMR and age-standardized DALY rate are projected to rise. Conclusions: The global burden of CE remains high, and it is recommended that more health resources are allocated to low-SDI regions, women and the elderly aged 55 to 65 years to reduce the disease burden of CE.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Alveolar Echinococcosis and Cystic Echinococcosis: Advances in the 21st Century)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on the Management and Prognosis of Infective Endocarditis
by
Lucie Ailhaud, Robinson Gravier-Dumonceau, Florent Arregle, Sandrine Hubert, Jean-Paul Casalta, Alberto Riberi, Laetitia Tessonnier, Roch Giorgi, Gilbert Habib and Frédérique Gouriet
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040086 - 17 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious condition which is difficult to diagnose and to treat, both medically and surgically. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the management of patients with IE. Methods:
[...] Read more.
Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious condition which is difficult to diagnose and to treat, both medically and surgically. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the management of patients with IE. Methods: We conducted a single-centre retrospective study including patients hospitalized for IE during the pandemic (Group 2) compared with the same period the year before (Group 1). We compared clinical, laboratory, imagery, therapeutic, and patient outcomes between the two groups. Results: A total of 283 patients were managed for possible or definite IE (164 in Group 1 and 119 in Group 2). There were more intravenous drug-related IE patients in Group 2 (p = 0.009). There was no significant difference in surgery including intra-cardiac device extraction (p = 0.412) or time to surgery (p = 0.894). The one-year mortality was similar in both groups (16% versus 17.7%, p = 0.704). The recurrence rate was not significantly different between the two groups (5.9% in Group 2 versus 9.1% in Group 1, p = 0.311). Conclusions: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic did not appear to have had a negative impact on the management of patients with IE. Maintenance of the activities of the endocarditis team within the referral centre probably contributed to this result. Nevertheless, the high proportion of intravenous drug-addicted patients in the pandemic cohort suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had a major psychosocial impact.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Presentation, Management and Treatment of Infective Endocarditis)
Open AccessReview
Sigma-Class Glutathione Transferases (GSTσ): A New Target with Potential for Helminth Control
by
Lluvia de Carolina Sánchez Pérez, Rafael A. Zubillaga, Ponciano García-Gutiérrez and Abraham Landa
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040085 - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Glutathione transferases (GSTs EC 2.5.1.18) are critical components of phase II metabolism, instrumental in xenobiotics’ metabolism. Their primary function involves conjugating glutathione to both endogenous and exogenous toxic compounds, which increases their solubility and enables their ejection from cells. They also play a
[...] Read more.
Glutathione transferases (GSTs EC 2.5.1.18) are critical components of phase II metabolism, instrumental in xenobiotics’ metabolism. Their primary function involves conjugating glutathione to both endogenous and exogenous toxic compounds, which increases their solubility and enables their ejection from cells. They also play a role in the transport of non-substrate compounds and immunomodulation, aiding in parasite establishment within its host. The cytosolic GST subfamily is the most abundant and diverse in helminths, and sigma-class GST (GSTσ) belongs to it. This review focuses on three key functions of GSTσ: serving as a detoxifying agent that provides drug resistance, functioning as an immune system modulator through its involvement in prostaglandins synthesis, and acting as a vaccine antigen.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Characterization of the Tissue and Strain-Specific Microbiota of Anopheles funestus Giles (Diptera: Culicidae)
by
Chia-Yu Chen, Wai-Yin Chan, Arshad Ismail and Shüné V. Oliver
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040084 - 13 Apr 2024
Abstract
The mosquito microbiota is a critical determinant of mosquito life history. It is therefore a target for novel vector control strategies like paratransgenesis. However, the microbiota in Anopheles funestus, a major African malaria vector, is poorly characterized. Thus, the study aimed to
[...] Read more.
The mosquito microbiota is a critical determinant of mosquito life history. It is therefore a target for novel vector control strategies like paratransgenesis. However, the microbiota in Anopheles funestus, a major African malaria vector, is poorly characterized. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the overall bacterial landscape in the salivary glands, ovaries and midguts of three laboratory strains of An. funestus differing in insecticide-resistant phenotype by sequencing the V3–V4 hypervariable region of bacterial 16S rRNA genes. When examining alpha diversity, the salivary glands harbored significantly more bacteria in terms of species richness and evenness compared to ovaries and midguts. On the strain level, the insecticide-susceptible FANG strain had significantly lower bacterial diversity than the insecticide-resistant FUMOZ and FUMOZ-R strains. When looking at beta diversity, the compositions of microbiota between the three tissues as well as between the strains were statistically different. While there were common bacteria across all three tissues and strains of interest, each tissue and strain did exhibit differentially abundant bacterial genera. However, overall, the top five most abundant genera across all tissues and strains were Elizabethkingia, Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Cedecea and Yersinia. The presence of shared microbiota suggests a core microbiota that could be exploited for paratransgenesis efforts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Mosquito Microbiome—Leveraging Basic Biology for Control)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
Splenic Embolism in Infective Endocarditis: A Systematic Review of the Literature with an Emphasis on Radiological and Histopathological Diagnoses
by
Gabriel Santiago Moreira, Nícolas de Albuquerque Pereira Feijóo, Isabella Braga Tinoco-da-Silva, Cyntia Mendes Aguiar, Francijane Oliveira da Conceição, Gustavo Campos Monteiro de Castro, Mariana Giorgi Barroso de Carvalho, Thatyane Veloso de Paula Amaral de Almeida, Rafael Quaresma Garrido and Cristiane da Cruz Lamas
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040083 - 12 Apr 2024
Abstract
Infective endocarditis (IE) is characterised by fever, heart murmurs, and emboli. Splenic emboli are frequent in left-sided IE. A systematic review of the literature published on splenic embolism (SE) between 2000 and 2023 was conducted. Search strategies in electronic databases identified 2751 studies
[...] Read more.
Infective endocarditis (IE) is characterised by fever, heart murmurs, and emboli. Splenic emboli are frequent in left-sided IE. A systematic review of the literature published on splenic embolism (SE) between 2000 and 2023 was conducted. Search strategies in electronic databases identified 2751 studies published between 1 January 2000 and 4 October 2023, of which 29 were finally included. The results showed that the imaging tests predominantly used to detect embolisms were computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography (PET)/CT, single-photon emission computed tomography/CT, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. More recent studies typically used 18F-FDG PET-CT. The proportion of SE ranged from 1.4% to 71.7%. Only seven studies performed systematic conventional CT screening for intra-abdominal emboli, and the weighted mean frequency of SE was 22% (range: 8–34.8%). 18F-FDG PET-CT was performed systematically in seven studies, and splenic uptake was found in a weighted mean of 4.5%. There was a lack of uniformity in the published literature regarding the frequency and management of splenic embolisation. CT scans were the most frequently used method, until recently, when 18F-FDG PET-CT scans began to predominate. More data are necessary regarding the frequency of SE, especially focusing on their impact on IE management and prognosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- TropicalMed Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Diseases, Infectious Disease Reports, Pathogens, Viruses, TropicalMed
Human Monkeypox Research
Topic Editors: Shailendra K. Saxena, Ahmed Sayed Abdel-MoneimDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Geriatrics, Healthcare, IJERPH, JCM, TropicalMed
One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine
Topic Editors: Roy Rillera Marzo, Adnan Kisa, Atin Adhikari, Bijaya PadhiDeadline: 31 July 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
TropicalMed
Monitoring and Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections
Guest Editors: Eduardo Alvarez Duarte, Esperanza Duarte-Escalante, María Guadalupe Frías-De-LeónDeadline: 17 May 2024
Special Issue in
TropicalMed
The Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Treatment of Mycobacteria Infection (including TB and NTM)
Guest Editors: Qin Sun, Wei Sha, Jing BaoDeadline: 3 June 2024
Special Issue in
TropicalMed
Leishmaniasis: Vector-Host-Pathogen Interactions in Health and Disease
Guest Editors: Pedro Cecílio, Manuela da Silva Solcá, Nuno SantarémDeadline: 6 July 2024
Special Issue in
TropicalMed
Leptospirosis and One Health Approach: Current Status and Future Prospects, 2nd Edition
Guest Editors: Sérgio Santos de Azevedo, Clebert José AlvesDeadline: 15 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
TropicalMed
Infection Prevention and Control: Practical and Educational Advances
Collection Editors: Constantinos Tsioutis, Spyridon Karageorgos, Nico Mutters, Carlos Palos