Abstract:
Toxocariasis is a common helminthic infection that has a worldwide distribution. However, data from Lebanon about the prevalence of this infection are non-existent. We conducted a Toxocara seroprevalence study with 150 subjects attending the outpatient clinics at the American University of Beirut Medical Center between May and June 2004. Serum specimens were tested for anti- Toxocara antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and confirmed by Western blot. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for infection. The seroprevalence rate of toxocariasis was 19percent. Male gender and below high school education were significantly associated with a positive serological test (odds ratios = 3.1 and 2.8, respectively). Higher numbers of persons in the household, and low family income during childhood, were significant on bivariate analysis only. Toxocariasis is common in Lebanon. A large population-based survey is needed to confirm these results. © 2006 Cambridge University Press.