Paragonimus uterobilateralis: Peak Period of Egg Output in Sputum of Infected Subjects in Cross River Basin, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was designed to determine the peak period of excretion of eggs of Paragonimus uterobilateralis in sputum of infected subjects in the Cross River Basin in Nigeria. 120 subjects infected with P .uterobilateralis from the basin where investigated. The subjects ranged from 5-56 years old and were categorized into 5 age groups. (5-10; 11-20; 21-30; 31-40; >40 years old ) Both sexes were represented. Twenty four-hour sputum, collected at twenty four-hour intervals for three consecutive days was examined microscopically for egg of Paragonimus. It was found that quantity of egg in sputum of infected persons was significantly higher between the hours of 5am to 9am than other times. This was true in both males and females of all ages. The finding suggests that sputum collected between this time range (05 hours - 09hours) will be meaningful in evaluating status of Paragonimus infections in the area.



Key Words: Paragonimus uterobilateralis; Cross River Basin; Nigeria; peak period, egg output; sputum.


[Mary Slessor Jnl of Medicine Vol.3(1) 2003: 24-27]