Seroprevalence of cysticercosis in North Indian population

ObjectiveTo estimate the seroprevalence, morbidity of Taenia solium (T. solium) cysticercosis and its relationship to socio-economic, sanitary parameters.MethodsUsing multistage stratified random sampling, 2 500 subjects from urban (n=1 250) and rural population (n = 1 250) of Lucknow, India were registered. Blood, stool samples, socioeconomic and demographic data were collected. Serum enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay (ELISA) was used to detect anticysticercus IgG and IgM antibodies. Microscopic examination of stool samples after processing by concentration method was done to observe taeniasis and other intestinal parasites. CT scan of seropositive cases presenting with seizures was done for confirmation of neurocysticercosis.ResultsThe overall, urban and rural seroprevalence of T. solium cysticercosis was 3.48%, 4.64% and 2.32%, respectively. The risk factors significantly associated with the disease were pig rearing in both study populations, unsanitary waste disposal in urban, vegetarian diet and open defecation in rural population. One case of intestinal taeniasis was observed. Twenty-six of 30 cases undergoing CT scan were diagnosed as neurocysticercosis.ConclusionsSeroprevalence of cysticercosis is high in the study community. Prevalence of cysticercosis is related to roaming pigs and behavioral and environmental practices in local community. Health education and identification of tapeworm carriers seems promising control strategy.