Seroprevalence and optimized quantitative PCR detection of Entamoeba histolytica using self-collected rectal swabs among men who have sex with men in southern Taiwan: a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Amebiasis, caused by Entamoeba histolytica, has emerged as a sexually transmitted enteric infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) and people with HIV (PWH) in developed countries. While previous surveillance studies in Taiwan among PWH showed ongoing transmission, investigation on E. histolytica infection among non-HIV MSM using newer diagnostic methods and ELISA-IgG seroprevalence surveys is lacking.

Methods

From March 2024 to February 2025, we conducted a cross-sectional study during an LGBTQ + Pride event and at a tertiary medical center in southern Taiwan. MSM participants were recruited during anonymous HIV and syphilis testing, or during follow-up visits for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis or antiretroviral therapy. We collected serum samples for E. his

SUBMITTER: Tsai CS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12922407 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature