Helminths are the oldest and most numerous inhabitants of our planet. It is known that they can live almost anywhere, and the human body is for many of them the optimal environment for existence. There, the parasite is not only maximally protected from external influences, but can also receive the necessary nutrients for its growth and development. Not all helminthiases have pronounced symptoms (such as enterobiasis itself): often a person does not even suspect that uninvited guests live in his body. How can a parasitic invasion be detected?
Why are helminths dangerous for the human body?
Despite the fact that helminths can live for a long time asymptomatically in the human body, this does not at all mean that their vital activity is safe. All parasites in the process of growth, development and death secrete certain substances that contribute to the sensitization of the body and the development of allergic reactions. A rash, itching, and even anaphylactic shock can be the result of parasitic worms.
In addition, many helminths are localized in the patient's gastrointestinal tract and disrupt the processes of normal digestion and absorption of nutrients. The patient notes the appearance of weakness, fatigue, dizziness and dizziness, which can be associated with the development of anemia. Brittle nails, hair, dry skin and mucous membranes can be the result of iron deficiency, hypovitaminosis and a lack of mineral components. Against the background of chronic diarrhea, some patients develop dehydration and even increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Many helminths have a mechanical effect on the gastrointestinal tract wall. Suction cups and hooks damage tissues, contributing to the formation of ulcerative and erosive changes. There are also known cases of the development of inflammation of the appendicular process against the background of helminthiasis.
Who should get tested?
Indeed, everyone is at risk. Almost all people eat meat or fish, vegetables, fruits and berries, as well as drink unboiled water and swim in reservoirs. Children are especially vulnerable in this regard: they have helminth eggs most of the time. Young children tend to put dirty toys and other objects in their mouths, to cuddle with stray and domestic dogs and cats, and to violate the rules of personal hygiene. There are several types of analysis:
Preventive analyzes
Their goal is the timely detection of parasitic worms, even in the absence of signs. It is recommended to undergo such an examination at least once a year.
Barrier analysis
They are intended to prevent the spread of helminthiasis among people. When a child enters a preschool institution or when he goes to the pool, it is imperative to provide a certificate. Healthcare professionals and nutritionists should also undergo a similar test.
According to the indications
If you suspect the development of helminthiasis (epidemiological history and specific complaints), the specialist prescribes a certain range of studies. This allows you to diagnose the disease in time and start treatment.
Analysis for helminth eggs
A fairly popular method of detecting helminth eggs is the study of feces. In this case, no additional preparation is required: just collect the biological material in a special jar and take it to the laboratory. However, experts recommend not taking antiparasitic medications before performing the test - this could affect its accuracy. It is also worth noting that the analysis must be submitted at least 3 times to rule out false positive and false negative results. Today, the study of feces for helminth eggs is gradually giving way to newer methods - the determination of antibodies to a certain parasite in the blood.
How to detect enterobiasis?
Enterobiasis is one of the most common helminthiases and pinworms cause it. The disease is often found in schoolchildren and nurseries, but adults are also at risk of infection. The main symptom of the disease is severe itching in the perianal region. Diagnosis of enterobiasis is made by obtaining a smear or scraping from the area near the anus. This is due to the fact that the female of the pathogen leaves the intestine to lay eggs on the surface of the skin folds. The procedure is carried out before going to the toilet and washing in the morning, which allows you to get an accurate result.
Ascariasis Diagnosis
Nematodes are helminths, the body length of which can reach up to 40 centimeters. They can travel throughout the body, affecting not only the gastrointestinal tract but also the lungs. Sputum and feces samples can be used as research material: in them the genetic material of the parasite is found. In addition, Ascaris eggs are often found in the patient's stool. However, the most effective diagnostic method is the detection of specific antibodies against parasitic worm antigens in the patient's blood.
How to identify opisthorchiasis?
Feline fluke causes opisthorchiasis, which is characterized by predominant liver damage. That is why opisthorchus eggs can be found not only in feces, but also in duodenal juice. In recent years, enzyme immunoassay has been widely used to detect antibodies against opisthorchia. Furthermore, helminths can be detected using the polymerase chain reaction, which is effective even with a small amount of biological material.
Identification of trichinosis
Trichinella is a helminth that predominantly affects the muscles, but can migrate to the central nervous system, causing irreversible changes. If the development of this helminthiasis was suspected, a muscle biopsy was previously performed, but in recent years it has been supplanted by serological methods. The detection of antibodies against Trichinella in the patient's blood is the reason for the diagnosis.