Ov16 seroprevalence among persons with epilepsy in onchocerciasis endemic regions: A multi-country study

2Citations
Citations of this article
17Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

There is growing epidemiological evidence that onchocerciasis may induce epilepsy. High prevalence of onchocerciasis has been reported in onchocerciasis-meso and hyper-endemic regions. We aimed to determine the OV16 antibody prevalence in persons with epilepsy (PWE) in four onchocerciasis-endemic regions. PWE were identified during studies in Mahenge area (Tanzania), Kitgum and Pader districts (Uganda), the Mbam and Sanaga river valleys (Cameroon), and the Logo health zone (Democratic Republic of Congo). Exposure to Onchocerca volvulus was assessed by testing PWE for OV16 IgG4 antibodies using a rapid diagnostic test. The OV16 seroprevalence among PWE in the four onchocerciasis-endemic study sites ranged from 35.2% to 59.7%. OV16 seroprevalence increased with age until the age of 39 years, after which it decreased drastically. Our study suggests that, in onchocerciasis-endemic regions, epilepsy in young people is often associated with onchocerciasis, while epilepsy in older persons seems unrelated to O. volvulus exposure.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Dusabimana, A., Bhwana, D., Mandro, M., Mmbando, B. P., Siewe Fodjo, J. N., & Colebunders, R. (2020). Ov16 seroprevalence among persons with epilepsy in onchocerciasis endemic regions: A multi-country study. Pathogens, 9(10), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9100847

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free