Burkholderia pseudomallei Antibodies in Cambodian Children
Author Information
Author(s): Wuthiekanun Vanaporn, Pheaktra Ngoun, Putchhat Hor, Sin Lina, Sen Bun, Kumar Varun, Langla Sayan, Peacock Sharon J., Day Nicholas P.
Primary Institution: Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
Hypothesis
Melioidosis occurs in Cambodia but is unrecognized due to a lack of diagnostic microbiology facilities.
Conclusion
Detection of B. pseudomallei antibodies in 16% of Cambodian children suggests environmental exposure to this pathogen.
Supporting Evidence
- 16% of children tested had antibodies to B. pseudomallei.
- B. pseudomallei was isolated from 30% of soil samples in rice paddies.
- The study suggests melioidosis is likely occurring in Cambodia despite no reported cases.
Takeaway
The study found that some children in Cambodia have antibodies to a germ that can cause a serious disease, even though it hasn't been officially reported there.
Methodology
A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted with serum samples collected from children aged 0-16 years at Angkor Hospital for Children.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of serum samples as they were surplus from tests ordered for other reasons.
Limitations
The study may not represent the entire population due to the sampling method and the age distribution of participants.
Participant Demographics
Children aged between birth and 16 years, with 54.5% being male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p = 0.02
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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