Association between Helicobacter pylori and intestinal parasitic infections and their effects on some haematological parameters in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasites and Helicobacter pylori are infectious agents with significant global public health implications. Both  infections are commonplace increasing the chance of co-infection.

Aim: The study aims to determine the prevalence of H. pylori, intestinal parasites and coinfection with both as well as their effect on  haematological parameters.

Methods: Blood and stool specimens were collected from 521 patients with gastrointestinal complaints accessing care in General Practice  Clinics of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. Socio-demography data were obtained with a  questionnaire while full blood count was determined on the blood specimens using an auto-analyzer. The stool samples were used to  detect H. pylori antigen using an immunochromatographic kit, and intestinal parasites using formol-ether concentration method.  

Results: The prevalences of H. pylori infection, intestinal parasitic infection and coinfection were 28.21%, 3.26% and 4.76% respectively,  and H. pylori was insignificantly associated with intestinal parasitic infection (OR=1.820, 95%CI=0.679, 4.877; p=0.3506). Ascaris  lumbricoides (2.88%) and hookworm (0.38%) were the only intestinal parasites recovered. Patients with single marital status (p=0.0362)  had higher prevalence of H. pylori while those with primary level of education had higher prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection  (p=0.0008). Other demographic data did not significantly (p>0.05) affect the prevalence of H. pylori and intestinal parasitic mono- infections. H. pylori infection only resulted in significant increase in total white blood cell count (p=0.0020); intestinal parasitic infection  caused significant reduction in haematocrit values (p=0.0365) and haemoglobin concentration (p=0.0036) while co-infection only caused a  significant reduction in haematocrit values (p=0.0279).

Conclusion: An insignificant association between H. pylori and intestinal  parasitic infections was observed. Co-infection resulted in lower haematocrit values. Measures to prevent mono- and co-infection and  associated sequelae are advocated.