Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. among sputum smear-positive tuberculosis patients in a tertiary care center in Punjab, India.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, ranks among the deadliest communicable diseases, significantly contributing to global mortality and morbidity. By weakening the immune system, TB increases susceptibility to intestinal parasites like Cryptosporidium spp. These intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are widespread, especially in regions with poor sanitation and inadequate hygiene. The problem is particularly acute in developing countries like India, where the co-infection rate of TB and IPIs is notably high. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the potential for co-infection and its impact on both diseases.

METHODS

This prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology at Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India, from September 2022 to August 2023. It included 115 sputum smear-positive TB patients; stool samples were collected from 92 of these individuals. The collected samples underwent both macroscopic and microscopic examinations to assess the prevalence of IPIs.

RESULTS

TB with IP co-infection was detected in 27.17% of the patients, with Cryptosporidium oocysts being the most frequent finding. The age group of 61-70 years had the highest prevalence of TB with Cryptosporidium spp. (41.17%). Cryptosporidium spp. prevalence was higher in urban areas (33.33%) compared to rural areas (5%). TB with Cryptosporidium spp. coinfection was more prevalent among patients with diabetes (31.43%).

CONCLUSION

The simultaneous occurrence of TB and IPIs like Cryptosporidium spp. can severely weaken the immune system. It is important to screen all TB patients for IPIs to effectively identify and manage these dual infections to improve treatment outcomes, reduce health risks, and enhance overall patient care strategies.