Association between intestinal parasitic infections and biochemical markers of malnutrition among pediatric patients
Department of Biology, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Kirkuk, Kirkuk, Iraq.
Research Article
Open Access Research Journal of Biology and Pharmacy, 2026, 16(02), 105-113.
Article DOI: 10.53022/oarjbp.2026.16.2.0034
Publication history:
Received on 05 March 2026; revised on 05 April 2026; accepted on 08 April 2026
Abstract:
Intestinal parasitic infections are still a pressing public health issue for children around the world, but especially in underdeveloped areas. Intestinal parasitic infections can cause malnourishment and stunt growth. They can interfere with the metabolism and absorption of nutrients which could then affect levels of essential nutrients such as hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, albumin, total protein, vitamin D and zinc. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between the presence of intestinal parasites and levels of biochemical markers associated with malnutrition in young children. This was a cross-sectional study involving 298 young children who were screened for intestinal parasites via stool samples at the Kirkuk Children’s Hospital. Microscopic examination revealed that Entamoeba histolytica and Enterobius vermicularis were the two most frequent types of parasites present in the children. We also measured the following biochemical parameters: hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, albumin, total protein, vitamin D and zinc in the infected versus uninfected children. The study demonstrated that infected children have lower levels than uninfected children in all of the measured markers. In summary, the study demonstrated that intestinal parasitic infections have a direct negative impact on levels of biochemical markers associated with nutrition status of children. Early detection and treatment of parasitic infections may help prevent malnutrition and improve child health outcomes.
Keywords:
Intestinal parasitic infections; Entamoeba histolytica; Enterobius vermicularis; Malnutrition; Biochemical markers
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