The status of cryptosporidiosis in Jordan: a review

Abstract

Background: Cryptosporidium is a waterborne intestinal parasite that causes diarrhoea in low and middle-income countries worldwide. Reports from Mediterranean countries have documented the prevalence of cryptosporidiosis in children at various ages, also among cancer patients, and in cases of chronic kidney disease, haemodialysis, and organ transplant. Untill now, modified-acid staining preceded by stool concentration preparation remains the leading screening diagnostic test for the infection. In Jordan, few studies for cryptosporidiosis have been performed during the last 3 decades. Aims: This paper reviewed the status of cryptosporidiosis in Jordan and tracked recent updates for this emerging protozoal infection among different population groups. Methods: In this study, an online search was conducted on Google Scholar and PubMed databases using the keywords: Jordan, cryptosporidiosis and Cryptosporidium to inspect studies done on this parasite in Jordan. Results: Only 9 articles were identified from 1994 to 2019. These were analysed in terms of population group, demography, clinical history and the diagnostic tools used. Conclusion: Cryptosporidiosis is still neglected in Jordan as indicated by the low number of studies over the last 3 decades and the prevalence is diverse depending on the diagnostic test used and socioeconomic status.