Giardia intestinalis: estado nutricional y hematimétrico en niños escolares del cantón Tenguel, Ecuador

Enteroparasitosis is a public health problem, whose global epidemiological behavior has been demonstrated at the expense of protozoa. Giardia intestinalis being one of the most frequent pathogens. Giardiasis is more prevalent in children, the pathogenic action of the parasite can cause malabsorption syndrome, intolerance to sugars and vitamins and, as a consequence, anemia and nutritional alterations. A cross-sectional epidemiological investigation was carried out to estimate the prevalence of G. intestinalis, anemia, and nutritional status in 129 school children from Carton Tenguel, Ecuador. The variables were considered: weight, size, age-related body mass index; blood count parameters (Hb, Hto, VCM, MCH, MCHC). Coproparasitology was performed using the direct method (0.9% saline solution and Lugol's). The results showed prevalence of moderate anemia in 10.12% and 31.23% of schoolchildren at risk of malnutrition, the latter more frequent in males, with a statistically significant difference (p<0.05). A 72.87% prevalence of enteroparasites was determined, with G. intestinalis being the most prevalent species (24, 806%). No relationship was found between the presence of infection with G. intestinalis, in relation to anemia and nutritional alterations. It is concluded, despite the fact that no statistical association was shown, giardiasis together with socioeconomic risk factors suggests a synergism that favors anemia and nutritional alterations. It is recommended to carry out educational interventions aimed at prophylactic measures and epidemiological investigations that guide intervention strategies that must be supported by State policies.