Abstract

In recent years, Cryptosporidium has been considered, especially in children, as one of the causative agents in acute and/or chronic diarrhea. Studies had indicated that the prevalence of this protozoa is more common in children under five years old than other age groups. Therefore, determining the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in this age group is the main step to assist in designing and implementing health programs. In this cross-sectional study of 374 children admitted to 17- Shahrivar Hospital in Borazjan City, stool samples were obtained throughout the whole year of 2010. Stool samples were examined by ELISA method to detect Cryptosporidium surface antigen (CSA). Of the 374 stool samples, 49 (13.1%) were confirmed as positive for Cryptosporidium surface antigen. The highest prevalence was observed in children around 1-2 years old. Although infection rate in boys (29 cases, 7.8%) was higher than girls (20 cases, 5.3%); however, no significant association was observed between gender and infection. Significant relationship was observed between Cryptosporidium infection and diarrhea, but variables such as vomiting, breast feeding, fever and seizures did not show a significant relationship withCryptosporidium infection. The highest seasonal frequency of infection was observed in autumn. The relative high prevalence of infection in 1 to 5 years old children, the characteristics of the tropical area, the status of poor hygiene among the people due to absence of health infrastructure, and lack of adequate health information demonstrates the fact that proper plan for prevention, accurate diagnosis and treatment of cryptosporidiosis is an essential matter.

Key words: Gastroenteritis, children, Cryptosporidium, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).