Intestinal parasitosis in Indians of the Mapuera community (Oriximina, State of Para, Brazil): high prevalence of Blastocystis hominis and finding of Cryptosporidium sp and Cyclospora cayetanensis

Occurrences of intestinal parasitosis in Indians of the Mapuera community (Oriximina, State of Para, Brazil) were evaluated. Within the context of group assessment, this study makes a contribution towards adequate knowledge of this subject, which is significant from a medical-sanitary point of view. Parasitological examination of feces from 83 individuals, performed using four different methods, could be considered to have reasonable amplitude for establishing diagnoses. Protozoan cysts and helminth eggs of many types were found, even with significant percentages. The frequent presence of Blastocystis hominis (57.8%), along with findings of Cryptosporidium sp (3.6%) and Cyclospora cayetanensis (10.8%), deserved highlighting with specific comments. The findings show that these Indians live in an environment in which poor hygiene conditions prevail. In particular, these facilitate the dissemination of protozoa and helminths through contact with the soil or through intake of contaminated water and food.