Efectos de la parasitosis intestinal sobre la respuesta inmunológica: alteraciones celulares en estudiantes

Abstract

Intestinal parasitoses represent a significant public health problem, particularly in regions with tropical climates and inadequate sanitation. In Ecuador, these infections affect up to 80% of the rural population and 40% of those in marginal urban areas. The relationship between intestinal parasitosis and eosinophilia remains a subject of interest, as eosinophils play a key role in the immune response to helminth infections. This study employed a descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods. A total of 54 first-semester students from the Biochemistry and Pharmacy program at the Technical University of Machala were selected through stratified random sampling. Stool samples were collected for coproparasitological analysis, and blood samples were analyzed for eosinophil counts using a HumaCount 30Ts device. Additionally, questionnaires were administered to assess demographic, economic, hygienic, and medical factors. Data were analyzed using JAMOVI 2.5.6 software, applying the Chi-square test with a significance level of α = 0.05. Results showed that 22.2% of the students came from rural areas and 77.8% from urban areas. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 16.7%, with Entamoeba dispar (66.7%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (33.3%) being the most frequently identified parasites. Regarding eosinophil levels, 76.5% of parasitized students had normal values, while 23.5% showed low levels. No cases of eosinophilia were observed, suggesting that in this sample, parasites did not trigger a strong eosinophilic immune response. Additionally, 35% of the students lacked regular access to healthcare services, and 22% did not have access to potable water, both factors that may contribute to the persistence of parasitosis. Furthermore, 60% of parasitized students reported self-medicating as a treatment strategy. In terms of academic performance, 70.6% of students with normal leukocyte levels exhibited low performance. However, Chi-square test results did not indicate statistical significance (p > 0.05), suggesting no clear relationship between immunological alterations and academic performance. No significant correlation was found between eosinophilia and the presence of intestinal parasites in the studied population. Despite the low prevalence of parasitosis, limited access to healthcare and potable water were identified as contributing factors to its persistence. Strengthening health education, improving access to medical services, and promoting proper hygiene practices are recommended to reduce the incidence of intestinal parasitosis in vulnerable populations.