<i>Entamoeba gingivalis</i> infection in Okigwe Urban,I mo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The protozoan parasite Entamoeba gingivalis is often regarded as a harmless parasite and thus not much attention is paid to
it. This study aims at highlighting the pathogenicity of this parasite. Swabs of the buccal surfaces were collected from 764
inhabitants of Okigwe Urban between December 2003 and August 2004. These were examined microscopically for the
trophozoites of E. gingivalis within 30 minutes of collection. An overall parasite prevalence of 43.72% was recorded. Possible
correlations between the presence of this parasite and various local or general factors assessed showed that neither sex, oral
hygiene method, nor smoking had any influence on the prevalence of the parasite. There was a significant (p<0.05) variation
between infection and occupation. Traders (72.36%) were the most affected, while the least infection rate was observed in
health workers (5.72%). The prevalence of E. gingivalis increased with age. It was highest in the age-group of 70 years and
above as well as amongst individuals who shared cups, spoons etc (48.16%) at p < 0.05. This study further adds to the
growing evidence and literature supporting the pathogenicity of E. gingivalis.

Keywords: pathogenicity, trophozoites of E. gingivalis, prevalence, immuno-compromised persons.

Nigerian Journal of Parasitology Vol. 28 (1) 2007: pp. 11-14