Abstract
Background and objective Intestinal parasitic infections are a major public health concern, especially in low-income regions with poor sanitation. Our hospital caters to a large migrant population, but data on these infections in Portugal is limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of intestinal parasitic infections in pediatric patients from epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological perspectives. Methods A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted involving symptomatic or opportunistically screened children and adolescents, with positive stool examination for eggs, cysts, and parasites (O&P) or positive serologies for Strongyloides/Schistosoma, at a level II hospital in Portugal, between January 2012 and June 2022. Results Seventy-seven patients were included in the study, of whom 56% were migrants. The median age was six years. A total of 79 intestinal parasitic infections were diagnosed, corresponding to a positivity rate of 2.5%. Among these, 7.8% occurred in children aged under one year, a particularly vulnerable group. The most frequently identified parasite was Giardia lamblia, followed by Strongyloides stercoralis. The rate of diagnoses increased over the study period, linked to the growing migrant population. Clinically, most children and adolescents were asymptomatic. Additionally, there was a significant rate of loss to medical follow-up, which could contribute to transmission. Conclusions This study is unique in its focus on characterizing intestinal parasitic infections in the pediatric population, addressing a gap in existing research. It highlights the need for further research among children living in Europe, especially given the rising migrant population. Multicenter studies are crucial to better understand infection patterns and improve diagnostic and treatment protocols.