Effect of intestinal parasitic infections on haemato-immunological profile of prison inmates in Southern Ghana

Intestinal parasites are known to cause changes in blood count parameters and immunological markers among various populations. Prison inmates often have poor living conditions and limited access to healthcare, thus infections with intestinal parasites could negatively impact on their overall health and wellbeing. This study assessed the effects of intestinal parasitic infections on the haemato-immunological profile of prison inmates in Southern Ghana. A cross-sectional study using stratified sampling technique was conducted among 347 male prison inmates in three major prisons in Southern Ghana, with 44 from Ho Central prison, 257 from Nsawam Medium Security prison and 46 from Sekondi Central prison. Stool samples obtained from inmates were first concentrated using formol-ether, then stained with the modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique to determine the presence of intestinal parasites. Additionally, venous blood was drawn into EDTA tubes from each participant and analysed for full blood count parameters using an automated haematology analyser, SYSMEX XN-550. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were determined by ELISA. The predominant intestinal parasites identified in the study were Ascaris lumbricoides and Entamoeba histolytica which accounted for 46.6% and 18.5% of all infections identified. Compared to uninfected individuals, there was a positive relationship between intestinal parasitic infection and total white blood cell count (5.38 (3.60) vs. 4.40 (2.41) 10⁹/L; p = 0.022), eosinophils (0.30(0.51) vs. 0.25(0.34) 10⁹/L; p = 0.028) and basophil (0.05(0.04) vs. 0.04(0.02) 10⁹/L; p = 0.044) respectively. In addition, IgE (p < 0.001) and IL-10 (p = 0.008) levels were significantly higher among infected inmates. After adjusting for confounders, total white blood cell count (p = 0.003) and eosinophil count (p = 0.032) were associated with intestinal parasitic infection status. Intestinal parasitic infection was associated with leukocytosis and eosinophilia as well as elevated IgE and IL-10 levels among prison inmates. Future trials should evaluate the impact of regular deworming and nutritional supplementation on haematological and immunological outcomes.