Abstract

VAZQUEZ, Fátima et al. Parasitic infections in children of Paraguay: A systematic review from 2014 to 2024. Rev. cient. cienc. salud [online]. 2025, vol.7, e7801.  Epub Mar 29, 2025. ISSN 2664-2891.  https://doi.org/10.53732/rccsalud/2025.e7801.

Parasitoses affect millions of people worldwide, mostly in developing countries. Children are the most vulnerable group due to their developing immune system, poor hygiene habits and increased exposure to the environment. This systematic review identified parasitosis in children in Paraguay between 2014 and 2024. A documentary methodology and retrospective study were used, following PRISMA-SR and JBI guidelines. Experimental and observational studies were included, excluding narrative reviews. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and gray literature databases were used. Two reviewers selected and extracted data using Rayyan QCRI and Excel, the quality of the process was assessed with the JBI Critical Appraisal Tool. A total of 537 articles were identified, of which 21 met the inclusion criteria. These studies reported the most frequent parasitic infections caused by Giardia lamblia, Blastocystis hominis and Ascaris lumbricoides (76%). 95% of the samples were diagnosed by the coproparasitological method. Most of the samples came from Concepción, Central and Alto Paraná. The main risk factors were age, overcrowding, poor access to drinking water and poor sanitation. Parasitosis was more prevalent in indigenous children and in dwellings with dirt floors. A high prevalence of intestinal parasites was found in vulnerable communities. Hemoparasites were poorly recorded, suggesting underreporting of these parasitoses. It is essential to improve diagnosis by molecular and immunological techniques and to promote prevention strategies to reduce the burden of parasitosis in Paraguay.

Keywords : parasitic diseases; parasites; children; Paraguay.

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