Observation of blood microfilariae during human trypanosomiasis survey in Gambella, south west Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract:

While conducting a survey on sleeping sickness during 1989-92 in Gambella, South western Ethiopia, microfilariae of Mansonella perstans were detected in the blood of the indigenous population, the Anuaks (1%), and the refugees from Southern Sudan (4.1%). No blood microfilarial infection was detected in resettlers, who arrived in the area from drought affected regions of the country during the 1985/86 resettlement program. Among the diagnostic methods applied, nearly twice more microfilaraemic cases (4.1%) were detected by the Miniature Anion Exchange Centrifugation Technique (M-AECT) while only (1.9%) were detectable by Microhaematocrit Buffy Coat Technique (MHBCT) among the refugees. Using the conventional blood film methods (thin and thick smears) only fewer positive cases (1.0%) were detected compared to the above two techniques. Besides a known standard diagnostic methods for blood filariasis, however, the MHBCT seems preferable as field diagnostic technique. Because it is more rapid, simple to operate and does not necessitate as much advanced preparation and sterile condition as M-AECT, and could be a potential diagnostic tool for blood microfilariae. There is a significant difference (P<0.01) in age groups 15-30 years among Anuaks and refugees. There is no significant difference (P>0.01) in other age groups and sexes among Anuaks and refugees. However, there is a significant difference (P<0.01) in over all positivity among Anuaks and refugees. [Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 1997;11(1):1-5]