Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu, Getrude Uzoma Obeagu, Udunma Olive Chijioke, Igris B Ofor and Grace I. Amilo
Ascaris lumbricoides is the causative organism that causes ascariasis. Ascariasis is an intestinal infection that is becoming common in this part of the World due to poor sanitation. It is causing a lot of harm to our people who treat other things which may not be the real cause of their disease. The study was done to determine the alterations in haematological parameters. The study was done in a secondary health institution in Umudike. A total of sixty five (65) subjects were recruited for the study, thirty (30) subjects were ascariasis patients (Test) and thirty five (35) subjects were apparently healthy individuals (control). Venous EDTA anticoagulated blood was used for the haematological assays. The results were analysed with student t-test and significance level set at P<0.05. The results showed significant decrease (P<0.05) in haemoglobin, PCV, RBC, WBC and neutrophil of the ascariasis subjects compared to the control and significant increase (P<0.05) in lymphocyte, monocyte and eosinophil. This shows that ascariasis infection leads to anaemia and leukopaenia. The immunity of the patients is challenged. Cytokines are secreted leading to inflammatory reaction and hypersentivity reactions. Proper treatment should be given to the affected patients immediately and should eat blood building foods such as vegetables.
