This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of paracoccidioidal infection
by intradermal reaction (Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity, DTH) to
Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in rural areas in Alfenas, Southern
Minas Gerais (MG) State, Brazil, and to assess risk factors (gender, occupation, age,
alcohol intake and smoking) associated with infection. We conducted a
population-based cross-sectional study using intradermal tests with gp 43
paracoccidioidin in 542 participants, who were previously contacted by local health
agents and so spontaneously attended the test. Participants underwent an interview by
filling out a registration form with epidemiological data and were tested with an
intradermal administration of 0.1 mL of paracoccidioidin in the left forearm. The
test was read 48 hours after injection and was considered positive if induration was
greater than or equal to 5 mm. Out of 542 participants, 46.67% were positive to the
skin test. Prevalence increased in accordance with an increase of age. There was
statistical significance only for males. Occupation, alcohol intake and smoking
habits were not significantly associated with the risk of paracoccidioidomycosis
infection. There is relevance of paracoccidioidomycosis infection in such rural
areas, which suggests that further epidemiological and clinical studies on this
mycosis should be done in the southern part of Minas Gerais State.
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