Abstract:
This cross-sectional study, carried out over a period of 11 months, investigated the
relationship between Toxocara seropositivity, socio-demographic and environmental variables
in a pediatric population. Risk factors for Toxocara infection were assessed by direct interview
of parent or guardian using a structured pre-tested questionnaire. Eosinophilia and presence
of helminth eggs or protozoan cysts in a fecal smear were recorded. Diagnosis of Toxocara
seropositivity in children was based on IgG Toxocara Microwell Serum Elisa Kits. The ELISA
test was regarded as positive if the optical density was 0.3 units or above. Unadjusted and
adjusted odds ratios were calculated to determine risk factors for disease. The proportion of
children who were positive for Toxocara antibodies in the study population was 20%. Children
being exposed to a puppy of less than 3 months at home, visiting a playground frequently,
living in a poorly constructed house and dogs having access to playgrounds were significant
risk factors on univariate analysis. Of these four variables, only the first three variables (OR 19,
OR 4 and OR 3, respectively) remained significant risk factors on the multivariate model. Presence
of eosinophilia in seropositive children was significantly higher than the seronegative
group (77% vs 40%; p < 0.001). This study indicates that dogs contribute significantly to
children being seropositive for toxocariasis in Sri Lanka. Implementation of public health programs
specifically focused on anti-parasitic treatment of dogs is recommended.
