Showing 50 results for MR
Safaari, M, Zolfaghari, Mr, Shakib, P, Rouhi, S,
Volume 8, Issue 5 (winter[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Abstract Background and Objective: Diarrheal diseases may occur in all age groups, worldwide. Escherichia coli (E. coli O157: H7) is one of the most important bacterial agents causing this disease. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of diarrhea in patients with acute diarrhea caused by this bacterium. Material and Methods: In this study, 214 stool samples were collected from acute diarrheic patients in hospitals and clinical laboratories of Malayer city, Iran. The samples were cultured in rich, differentiation, specific and selective medium. To detect E. coli O157: H7, rapid detection method and antisera were used . Results: In 12.15% of the samples, lactose fermentation was observed and E. coli was afirmed. The results of lactose positive samples showed that 6.54% were negative-β- Glucuronidases and were confirmed as E. coli O157. Finally, by using O157: H7 antisera, 1.87% of 14 samples that were negative- β-Glucuronidases were asserted as E. coli O157. Conclusion: based on the results, the prevalence of E. coli O157: H7 is higher in children and elders than the others. Food and water play a significant role in transferring E. coli. Keywords: Prevalence, E. coli O157: H7, Gastroenteritis, Patients
Mahboobi, R, Fallah Mehrabadi, J, , Pourmand, Mr, Mashhadi, R, Haddadi, A,
Volume 8, Issue 5 (winter[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Abstract Background and Objective: Increased antibiotic resistant strains and inadequacy of current vaccines against pneumococcal infections necessitate the study of novel protein antigens. It seems that minor autolysin of Streptococcus pneumoniae may have antigenicity. Thus, we aimed at cloning its gene for the first time. Material and Methods: After DNA extraction of Streptococcus pneumoniae (ATCC 49619), Specific primers were designed for amplifying minor autolysin gene fragment, using PCR. The purified gene fragment was inserted into pET21a vector and was transformed into bacterial competent cells by heat shock technique. The presence of gene and absence of mutation in the recombinant vector were checked out with sequencing and enzymatic digestion methods. The gene sequence was finally analyzed by bioinformatic tools. Results: The gene of minor autolysin was cloned successfully and the result of enzymatic digestion was the indication of complete isolation of this gen from plasmid. . Bioinformatics studies revealed that the mature protein was lacking signal peptide and the gene encoded 318 amino acids with a molecular weight of 36.4 kDa. Conclusion: The presentation and characterization of novel antigens such as minor autolysin could help us with finding new approaches for preventing and controlling pneumococcal infection. Keywords: Streptococcus Pneumoniae, Minor Autolysin, Cloning
J Panahi, Mr Havasian, J Abdi, K Sayehmiri,
Volume 8, Issue 5 (winter[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Abstract In this study, the prevalence of Echinococcus granulosus was surveyed by meta-analysis and systematic review. Using main keywords of Echinococcus granulosus, dog and carnivores, we searched standard sites such as Google scholar, SID, Pubmed, Iranmedex, Irandoc, Science direct and magiran. Fifteen reliable articles were reviewed and analyzed by STATA software, Ver 11. From obtained articles, the number of 2271 dogs, 167 jackals and 174 foxes have been investigated by Iranian researchers. The infection rate of E.granulosus was reported 27.4% (95% CI, 20.9-33.9) in this study in that the highest from north and north west of Iran with prevalence of 33.3 %(CI:22.1-44.4), the lowest by 21.9 %(CI:12.5-31.3) from west and south west of Iran and the average from the central region of Iran ( 26.9% CI:12.8-41). Among cities the highest (64%) and the lowest (3.3%) infection rate were reported in Garmsar city (2010) and Sistan and Balochestan province (1997). Given that the overall prevalence of E.granulosus in Iran is high, Control and prevention measures including destruction of stray dogs and treatment of owner dogs seems to be necessary. Keywords: Echinococcus Granulosus, Carnivores, Iran, Systematic Review
Namroodi, S, Saberi, M,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (may,jun 2015[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Dogs have been introduced as a major reservoir of Leishmania infantum. Concerning the increased sporadic reports of humeral visceral leishmaniasis in Golestan province, we aimed to study seroepidemiology of leishmania infantum in Rural Dogs.
Material and Methods: this study was conducted in 2012 - 2014 on 150 Serum samples of rural dogs, from 10 districts of Golestan province. The samples were analyzed by ELIZA kit.
Results: the frequency of leishmania infantum was 15.3% and it was higher in the dogs aged more than four. There were no differences in Leishmania infantum infection between sexes and seasons.
Conclusion: our findings indicate the presence of Leishmania infantum in Golestan Province. Given the presence of positive titer of Leishmania infantum in dogs without clinical signs, we emphasize the main role of rural dogs in transmitting Leishmania infuntum to villagers in the studied area.
Keywords: Leishmania Infantum, ELIZA, Rural Dogs, Golestan Province
Nasrollahi Omran, A, Nikpour, Sh, Mahdavi Omran, S,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (may,jun 2015[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
A Raefi, N Nasrollahi Omran, A Nazemi,
Volume 9, Issue 2 (may,jun 2015[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Malassezia yeast is considered lipophilic normal flora of human skin and warm-blooded vertebrates. This fungus is an opportunistic pathogen in causing seborrheic dermatitis. In this study, the yeasts isolated from the crust of the patients with seborrheic dermatitis were identified by PCR-Sequencing.
Material and Methods: In this study, 65 samples of the skin of ear, nose and dandruff were cultured in selective medium Sabouraud agar and modified Dixon agar to prevent dehydration. After biochemical tests, ITS1-4 Universal PCR primers were used to determine the species of yeast. Obtained PCR products were sequenced for the determination and identification of Malassezia species.
Results: Of nine samples obtained from scalp, four were Malassezia globosa, two Malassezia restricta, two Cryptococcus albidus and one Cryptococcus albidus milis.
Conclusion: The results of Malassezia globosa and Malassezia Restericta are very similar with those in studies elsewhere.
Keywords: Malassezia, Sequencing, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Tonekabon
Izadpanah, Mr, Asadpour, L,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (Jul,Aug2015[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: Staphylococcus aureus is an important opportunistic pathogen causing a wide range of infections in human .Most clinical isolates of S.aureus are resistant to a number of antibiotics. For appropriate antimicrobial therapy, this study was conducted to determine antibacterial drug resistance patterns of S.aureus isolates obtained from different clinical samples in Rasht.
Material and Methods: the clinical isolates of S.aureus were collected from different clinical laboratories in Rasht. Thirty coagulase positive S.aureus strains were identified using biochemical tests and amplification of 23SrRNA and coa genes by polymerase chain reaction. Finally, the resistance pattern of the isolates to 16 selected antimicrobial agents was evaluated by disk diffusion method.
Results: the S.aureus isolates (75%) were resistant to methicillin and all of them were multidrug resistance. The isolates were high resistance to ampicillin (73%), amoxicillin (60%), cloxacillin (53%) and low resistance to vancomycin (7%) and gentamicin (10%).
Conclusion: given the high prevalence of methicillin resistant, multi drug resistant and presence of vancomycin resistant S.aureus isolates in Rasht, continuously monitoring of drug resistance pattern of S.aureus isolates is recommended for having appropriate therapeutic regime.
Keywords: Staphylococcus Aureus, Coagulase, Drug Resistance, PCR
Gholipoory, M, Rezai, Hr, Namroodi, S, Arabkhazaeli, F,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (Jul,Aug2015[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: Given the Leishmaniasis is endemic in Turkmen Sahra, we aimed to study the contamination of rodents with this disease.
Material and Methods: Seventy-three rodents were collected from three regions (Gonbad, Gomishan and Bandar Turkmen) using live traps. In laboratory, morphometric characteristics were measured and for diagnosis of Leishmaniasis CL, the scratches obtained from their ears were examined by microscopic methods using Giemsa.
Results: The most frequent rodents were Meriones libycu (10.95%), Rattus norvegicus (21.91%), and Mus musculus (67.12%). Eleven (15.06%) of them were infected by cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL).
Conclusion: Because of infection rate, there is a high transmission risk of CL in the studied region.
Keywords: Rodentia; Leishmaniasis; Turkmen Sahra; Meriones; Mus Musculus; Rattus Norvegicus
Haghshenas, Mr, Hosseini, E, Babamahmoodi, F, Nandoust-Kenari, Sh, Tabrizi, A,
Volume 9, Issue 3 (Jul,Aug2015[PERSIAN] 2015)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by Influenza virus with three kinds of A, B and C . This virus spreads througout the world and produce some epidemics with different intensities . This study aimed to determine the prevalence of influenza B in patients reffering to health centers.
Material and Methods: this study was conducted on 878 samples in 2011-2013. Using PureLinkTM Viral RNA/DNA Kit, Influenza-RNA was extracted. Then Influenza B was distinguished by using SuperScript III Platinum, Quantitive Real Time PCR System from InvitrogenTM , specific primers and probs.
Results: the rate of Influenza B positive was %5.58 of the patients that %55.10 of them were female and %44.89 male. The highest rate was related to 31-40 and 51-60 year old patients.
Conclusion:
given the prevalence of influenza B virus and lack of genetic changes , it is recommended that a proper vaccine for improving immunty and effective drugs for treatmet be used.
Keywords: Influenza B Virus; Respiratory Tract Infections; Common Cold; RT-PCR
Nahid Ariana, Ali Nazemi , Ayatollah Nasrollahi Omran,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (sep,Oct 2015 2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and objectives: More Candida albicans strains are reported resistant to fluconazole in patients with AIDS, cancer and organ recipients. Fluconazole resistance can be attributed to changes in pathways of sterol biosynthesis, mutation in or overexpression of ERG11 and the expression of CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1. This study aimed to compare the expression of CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1 in C. albicans resistant and susceptible to fluconazole.
Methods: MIC testing for fluconazole was performed on C. albicans isolates isolated from patients with oral and vaginal candidiasis to determine resistant and susceptible strains. Then real time PCR was performed on the resistant and susceptible isolates and the expression of CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1 was compared in C. albicans.
Results: Of 46 Candida albicans isolates, 20 susceptible isolates, 12 semi-susceptible isolates and 14 resistant isolates were identified by MIC. After real time PCR was performed, Candida albicans isolates susceptible to fluconazole showed moderate expression of CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1 genes, while resistant isolates showed slight or no expression.
Conclusion: Increased expression of CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1 had less and insignificant role in resistance to fluconazole.
Keywords: Candida Albicans, Gene Expression, Real time PCR method
Hamidreza Yazdi, Fatemeh Piran , Sanaz Royani, Mojgan Nejabat, Gholamreza Roshandel, Mahsa Taherizadeh, Hamid Reza Joshaghani,
Volume 9, Issue 4 (sep,Oct 2015 2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Concentration low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is one of the strongest indicators of atherosclerosis and predicts the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. LDL measurement accuracy is very important. LDL can be measured directly, such as enzymatic and nephelometry methods or can be calculated using Friedewald's formula. Despite the development of enzymatic methods and LDL nephelometry still in most laboratories is calculated using Friedewald's formula. The aim of this study was an investigation of correlation coefficient between two methods of measuring LDL- cholesterol levels.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study, performed on the 1141 patients. Cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL all patients assayed by enzymatic method. For patients with triglyceride levels of less than 400 mg/dl had LDL levels were calculated by Friedewald's formula. Normal levels of LDL/HDL ratio of less than 3.5 were considered.
Results: Of the 1141 patients participating in this study, 38.3 % men and 61.7 % women. The mean patient age was 46.3 ± 16.1 years. Mean serum cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL were 177.9 ± 41.1, 132.9 ± 73.2 and 45.8 ± 13.2 mg/dl, respectively. Average direct and calculated LDL concentration was 82.1 ± 23.1 and 105.5 ± 35.8, respectively. The direct measurement of LDL, LDL/HDL levels in 97.1% of cases was normal, while 85.1 % of the calculation of LDL were normal. Pearson correlation coefficients were obtained by two methods: 0.869 (p <0.001).
Conclusion: Despite the favorable correlation between two methods of measurements of LDL, the results of a calculation method is more than direct method. This can have a negative impact on the judgment of the treating physician.
Key words: LDL, Enzymatic Method, Friedewald's Formula.
Zahra Khozein , Ayatollah Nasrolahi Omran , Aylar Jamali ,
Volume 9, Issue 5 (Nov,Dec-2015 2015)
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective: the Formation of urinary infection by uropathogenic E.coli needs numerous virulence factors and biofilm formation is among these factors. Bacteria that form biofilms express phenotype traits that appear according to the bacteria type. Cellulose is an important compound on the outside of E.coli causing bacterial cell-cell reactions and connection to nonliving surfaces. Curli pili cause the reaction between cell-cell and surface-cell in biofilms and lead to bacteria aggregation. Microorganisms’ ability to form biofilm on a surface depends on the surface nature and its conditions. This study aimed at determining the production ability of cellulose polysaccharide and curli pili in UPEC strains, and its correlation with formation and intensity of biofilm.
Methods: In this study carried out to compare the ability of cellulose and pili curli production ability in 40 uropathogenic E.coli isolates ,by morphotype method in Congo Red medium (CR), each isolate was incubated at 37 oC, for 24 hours. After 24 hours, all colonies’ morphology characteristics were studied
Results: It was shown that 67.5% of strains produced cellulose and 72.5% produced curli pili. In addition, 92.6% and 89% of isolates that produce cellulose and curli, respectively, had a moderate to strong biofilm. Moreover, it was shown that there is a significant correlation between cellulose and / or curli pili production with biofilm intensity.
Conclusion: About 70% of E.coli isolates from patients' urine are able to produce cellulose or curli pili; therefore, it can be concluded that the production of these two combinations is effective in amount and intensity of biofilm formation.
Keywords: Escherichia coli; Cellulose Polysaccharide; Curli Pili; Biofilm.
Nourollah Ramroodi , Mohammad Taghi Kardi , Majid Bouzari , Marzieh Rezaei , Majid Komijani , Mahsa Yazdi,
Volume 10, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2016 2016)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objective: Herpes simplex encephalitis is a life-threatening consequence of the central nervous system (CNS) infection with Herpes simplex virus (HSV). Although it is a rare disease, mortality rates reach 70% in the absence of therapy and only a minority of individuals can return to normal function. The aim of this study was to determine possible correlation between HSV infection and the incidence of encephalitis in patients with neurological signs.
Methods: Overall, 152 CSF samples were tested from patients with neurological signs referred to Mahdieh Clinical Laboratory in Isfahan from 2010 to 2013. After cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection, DNA was extracted and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for HSV detection.
Results: Of 152 patients tested, 50 were diagnosed with encephalitis. HSV DNA was present in the CSF of 13 patients with encephalitis. HSV was significantly higher (p< 0.05) in patients with encephalitis, which shows the significance of infection as an etiological factor of this disease. About 60% of the encephalitis cases were in age range of 1-24 months.
Conclusion: According to the findings of the present study, Cesarean section is recommended for HSV-positive mothers. A routine real-time PCR test is suggested for HSV detection in patients with encephalitis to avoid unnecessary antiviral treatments.
Tabassom Naseri Poor, Saeed Nasrollahnejad, Samira Shahbazi, Kamran Rahnama,
Volume 11, Issue 1 (Jan-Feb- 2017 2017)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Cellulose is a major component of plant biomass, which can be converted into biofuels and valuable chemicals. The key step in utilization of this organic material is its hydrolysis into soluble sugars. This study evaluated cellulase production by Trichoderma harzianum under different pH values, temperatures and incubation periods with the aim to increase enzyme production and decrease its costs.
Methods: The amount of protein production and the hydrolytic activity of cellulase enzymes including exoglucanase, endoglucanase and β-glucosidase produced by T. harzianum were evaluated using various substrates such as avicel, carboxymethyl cellulose, cellobiose, Whatman grade 1 filter paper under different pH values (4, 4.8, 5.5 and 6.5), temperatures (25, 28 and 34 °C) and incubation times (48, 72, 96 and 120 h).
Results: The optimum condition for cellulase production by T. harzianum is 120 hours of incubation at 25 °C and pH of 6.5.
Conclusion: T. harzianum can be used for the production of all three classes of cellulase. This fungus is suitable for the efficient production of cellulolytic enzymes and reducing the cost of consumables.
Keywords: Cellulose, Trichoderma harzianum, Hydrolytic enzymes, Optimization.
Reza Habibipour, Gholamreza Zarrini, Shohreh Yarizadeh,
Volume 11, Issue 3 (May-Jun 2017)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background and Objective: Nanobacteria are nanometer-scale particles with different shapes, which have been a subject of debate in modern microbiology. They belong to a proposed class of living organisms, specifically cell-walled microorganisms with a size much smaller than the generally accepted lower limit for life. Since some microorganisms are able to continue growth at high temperatures, we aimed to isolate thermophilic bacteria from Gheinarcheh hot spring in Ardabil (Iran) and identify the characteristics of these microorganisms.
Methods: Microbial mats were found in cultures from Gheinarcheh hot spring in North West of Iran. Synthetic media were prepared and used for isolation of protease-producing thermophilic bacteria, and identification of the features of microbial mats. Cultures were incubated at temperature range of 60-120 oC. Scanning electron microscopy, DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction were used to further identify characteristics of the microbial biofilms.
Results: Microbial biofilms of nanoparticles were detected in our samples. Growth of the bacteria increased at all temperatures tested. Results of scanning electron microscopy showed nano-sized particles in the scale of 60 nm. No band was visible in gel electrophoresis of polymerase chain reaction products.
Conclusion: This study is the first to report the presence of hyperthermophilic nanobacteria in Iran.
Keywords: Nanobacteria, Hyperthermophile, Microbial Mat.
Nahid Valipoor, Somayeh Namroodi, Shohreh Taziki, Hassan Rezaei,
Volume 16, Issue 4 (Jul-Aug 2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Lead (Pb) is among the most toxic pollutants that affect health of both humans and animals. Finding a way to prevent Pb accumulation in animals’ bodies seems necessary. Bacterial cellulose nanofiber (BCNF) can remove heavy metals from aqueous solutions. This study investigates effects of oral consumption of BCNF, as a chelator, on Pb concentration in the kidney and liver tissues of rats.
Methods: Sixteen Wistar rats (aged 6-8 weeks) were divided into four groups: 1. control, 2. fed with Pb, 3. fed with Pb (50 μg/g) and BCNF (16 μg/g) simultaneously, and 4. fed with Pb and BCNF with 4 hours interval. The rats were euthanized, and the kidney and liver tissues were separated. After acidic digestion of the tissue samples, Pb concentration was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry.
Results: The mean concentration of Pb in the kidney and liver tissues of rats fed with Pb and BCNF were significantly lower than that of rats fed only with Pb. In addition, the mean Pb concentration in rats of group 3 was lower than that of group 4.
Conclusion: The results of this study showed the favorable effects of BCNF on prevention of Pb accumulation in the kidney and liver tissues of rats. Moreover, removal of Pb may be related to binding of BCNF with Pb in the gut or blood. More studies are necessary to determine the exact mechanisms through which BCNF can reduce Pb accumulation.
Negin Valizadeh Keshmeshtapeh, Dr Somayeh Namroodi, Dr Shohreh Taziki,
Volume 16, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Considering the increasing use of nanochitin for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solutions, examining the biological effects of this substance on the level of essential metals for humans and animals is crucial. Therefore, this study investigated impact of oral administration of nanochitin on serum levels of iron (Fe) and calcium (Ca) in Wistar rats.
Methods: Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four treatment groups and one control group. Two groups were fed with nanochitin at doses of 1.6 and 2.6 μg/g for 6 weeks, and the other two groups received the mentioned doses for 10 weeks. Serum concentrations of Fe and Ca were measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Results: Oral administration of 2.6 μg/g nanochitin for 10 weeks caused a significant decrease in serum Ca and Fe concentrations (p<0.05). Oral administration of 1.6 and 2.6 μg/g nanochitin for 6 weeks caused a non-significant reduction in serum Fe and Ca concentrations (p>0.05). However, nanochitin consumption for 10 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in serum Fe concentration but not Ca.
Conclusion: The limited reduction of serum Fe and Ca concentrations after oral consumption of nanochitin at a low dose and for a limited duration indicates that the controlled use of nanochitin could be safe for animals. However, complementary studies are needed to determine the exact effects of nanochitin on the animals’ bodies. On the other hand, it is recommended to use Fe and Ca supplements after consuming high doses of nanochitin for longer periods.
Arvin Shajeie, Mehrnaz Rad, Mahdi Askari, Kamran Sharifi, Gholamreza Hashemi Tabar,
Volume 17, Issue 5 (Sep-Oct 2023)
Abstract
Background: Colistin is the most significant last-line antibiotic for the treatment of multidrug-resistant infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria, especially the Enterobacteriaceae family. The emergence and rapid spread of the plasmid-mediated resistance gene, mcr-1 (mobilized colistin resistance), in some isolates of Escherichia coli in recent years provoked public health concerns since it has been shown that mcr-1 with other resistance genes, such as ESBLs (extended-spectrum beta-lactamases) and carbapenemases, could be carried on a single plasmid concurrently. The excessive consumption of colistin, particularly in the livestock industry, and the transmission of these resistant bacteria from livestock to humans may potentially increase the risk of the spread of resistance in humans. Therefore, this study aimed to detect the prevalence of mcr and carbapenem resistance genes among neonatal calves in Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran.
Methods: In the current study, 200 fecal samples from healthy and diarrheic neonatal calves (≤35 days old) were collected in Mashhad (190 E. coli strains were isolated). Antibiotic susceptibility to ceftazidime, cefepime, cefixime, meropenem, colistin, and ciprofloxacin was examined. The double-disk diffusion method (ceftazidime + ceftazidime/clavulanic acid) was performed on Mueller-Hinton agar (MHA) media to phenotypically distinguish the ESBL producers. Afterward, the Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used to detect colistin resistance genes (mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3, mcr-4, and mcr5), NDM-1 (New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase 1), and OXA-48 as carbapenemases.
Results: The results of the resistance rate to antibiotics were cefepime, ceftazidime, cefixime, meropenem, and colistin. Based on the findings, 33.7% were phenotypically ESBL producers, 4.21% harbored mcr-1, and no NDM-1 or OXA-48 was detected. Among the mcr-1-positive isolates, 5 strains showed the ESBL phenotype.
Conclusion: The results highlight the need for continued monitoring of antibiotic resistance in livestock and the potential for transmission to humans. The findings also underscore the importance of responsible antibiotic use in both human and animal health to mitigate the spread of antibiotic resistance.
Mohammad Sadegh Naghizadeh, Mohsen Naseri, Gholamreza Anani Sarab, Afshin Derakhshani, Mohammad Fereidouni,
Volume 17, Issue 6 (Nov-Dec 2023)
Abstract
Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common allergic disorder. Detection of responsible pathogenic allergens in AD patients by reliable methods has a fundamental role in the prevention, management, and treatment of AD. This study was conducted to determine the most common allergens by the skin prick test (SPT) and immunoblotting among AD patients referring to an allergy clinic in Birjand City, Iran.
Methods: The presence of AD was confirmed by an expert allergist. Serum levels of total and specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) against 30 food and inhalant allergens were evaluated by a commercial immunoblotting kit (AlleisaScreen).
Results: The skin prick test was performed by a battery of 17 allergens. In total, 34 AD patients (mean age, 28.76 ± 17.36 years; range, 1-60 years; F/M ratio: 0.88) were enrolled in this study. The sensitization rates to at least 1 fungus, pollen, food, or indoor allergen by the immunoblotting method were 32.35%, 61.76%, 52.94%, and 47.05%, respectively. The most prevalent allergens were ragweed (52.94), Olive tree (41.16), Eucalyptus (35.29), date palm (35.29), and grass mix (32.28).
Conclusion: The study found that 85.29% of the studied population were sensitized to at least 1 allergen. Pollens and date palms were the most common allergens among AD patients, but the pattern of sensitization in SPT and immunoblotting was not exactly similar. Detection of allergens to which patients are sensitized and avoidance can help in the management of the disease and its symptoms.
Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, Sowmya Gayatri C, Swati Suravaram, Bharat Kumar Reddy, Dhanalakshmi A,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (Mar-Apr 2024)
Abstract
Background: ‘M’ proteins or paraproteins refer to immunoglobulins that are produced by clonal plasma cells and are a characteristic feature of monoclonal gammopathies. Routine electrophoresis on agarose gel and immunofixation can be used to detect immunoglobulin paraprotein (M-protein). We aimed to evaluate the performance of agarose gel electrophoresis alone and in combination with immunofixation for detecting serum M-proteins.
Methods: One hundred and twenty-three patients suspected of paraproteinemia were evaluated. Routine serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) protocols were performed. Data from SPE, and SPE-IFE (gel images and electrophoretograms) were collected and reviewed.
Results: 21% cases were confirmed using the SPE-IFE combination, and among them, 33% had positive light chain (λ) only on IFE. Similarly, nine cases with biclonal gammopathy on SPE were characterized by IFE.
Conclusion: IFE can be a confirmatory test in cases where SPE results are not reliable and it can be a complementary test when characterization of the M protein detected on SPE is required.
