The Coutinho index as a simple tool for screening patients with advanced forms of Schistosomiasis mansoni: a validation study.

Background: Periportal fibrosis (PPF) is the major pathological consequence of Schistosoma mansoni infection. The Coutinho index-the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to platelet ratio ([ALP/upper limit of normality {ULN}]/platelet count [106/L] x 100)-was validated. Validation consisted of modest laboratory tests to predict advanced PPF.

New index for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in Schistosomiasis mansoni.

Background: - Periportal fibrosis is the major pathological consequence of the Schistosoma mansoni infection.

Objective: - To evaluate the accuracy of serum markers and to construct an index to assess fibrosis.

Methods: - Patients (n=116) with schistosomiasis were evaluated by ultrasound scan and measurements of serum levels of aminotransferases, γ-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, hyaluronic acid, cytokines and platelets.

Evaluation of serum levels of IL-9 and IL-17 in human Schistosoma mansoni infection and their relationship with periportal fibrosis.

Serum levels of IL-9 and IL-17 cytokines were evaluated in patients in the acute, chronic phases and clinical forms of human schistosomiasis and in different classifications of periportal fibrosis. No significant differences between the groups of the disease with serum levels of cytokine were found. However, this study discusses the results of some cytokines that have not fully defined roles in the pathology of human schistosomiasis.

Synanthropic triatomines (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil: geographical distribution and natural Trypanosoma infection rates between 2006 and 2007.

Introduction: The present study shows a descriptive analysis of triatomine occurrence and its natural Trypanosoma infection rates in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, between 2006 and 2007.

Methods: Entomological data for the species, such as specimens captured in both intra and peridomiciles and natural infection index, were obtained via domiciliary capture in 147 municipalities from 11 Regional Managements of Health. The database was obtained from a sample of insects (100% infected and 20% non-infected) sent to the Central Laboratory of Pernambuco.