Tabari Biomedical Student Research Journal

Background & Objectives: Intestinal parasites are of the most important infections
and health problems throughout the world, especially in the developing countries.
The mentally retarded are at high risk for this type of parasitic infections.
Thus, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the
mentally retarded patients.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study was performed
on feces samples of 97 mentally retarded patients staying in Lamook rehabilitation
center in Qaemshahr, Iran, 2015. The samples were tested through the direct smear
method and simple-flotation by saturated solution of sodium chloride (or the Willis
method).
Results: All the patients were male and with mean age of 35 years. Our results
indicated that five (5.15%) of the participants were infected by intestinal parasites.
Trichuris trichiura in one, Entamoeba coli in two (nonpathogenic protozoa), and
Blastocystis hominis (nonpathogenic) in two cases were observed.
Conclusion: The pervalance rate of intestinal parasitic infections in this center was
relatively low, indicating the statisfactory health status and proper supervision of
the authorities of this center in this regard. Given the dangers posed by intestinal
parasitic infections to mentally retarded patients, prevention and management of
these infections is underscored