Seroepidemiology study of visceral leishmaniasis among human in Azarshahr areas, East Azerbaijan, Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

Objectives: This study was carried out in order to determine visceral leishmaniasis in Azarshahr, East Azerbaijan province, during 2004-2005. The study was descriptive (cross- sectioned) and multi stage sampling has been performed from 10 % of children < 10 years old with filter paper methods. Material and Methods: 1500 blood specimens were collected to detect anti -leishmania antibodies.The samples were tested by serological procedurs included : indirect fluorescence antibody test ( IFAT), and direct agglutination test (DAT). Results:Results showed that, by DAT test 19( 1.3%)of the collected specimens were anti-leishmania antibody positive with >= 1:3200 titers and 32 (2.2%) with 1:1600 titers suspicious. Discussion: Regarding the findings we recommend that further studies are necessary for isolation and specification of leishmania parasite and determination of the animal reservior as well as the species of sandfly vectors in this region. This study in comparison with other investigations indicated that visceral leishmaniasis is endemic in Azarshahr district.