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Diagnostic pathology of microsporidiosis
1Department of Pathology, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA. jorenstein@mfa.gwu.edu
Abstract:
Microsporidia are ubiquitous spore-forming parasites that are important worldwide pathogens in the HIV/AIDS pandemic. They are also increasingly being seen in HIV(-) individuals. Infection has been documented in almost every tissue and organ in the body and in a broad spectrum of cell types, including epithelial, mesenchymal, and neural. Microsporidia elicit a wide range of pathology, e.g., inflammation and cell death, and symptoms, e.g., shortness of breath, sinusitis, and diarrhea with wasting. Untreated, microsporidiosis has been documented as a cause of death.
Insights
Microsporidia are common parasites causing disease in people with HIV/AIDS and increasingly in those without HIV. These infections can affect multiple organs and cell types, leading to severe symptoms and potentially death.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Microsporidia are opportunistic pathogens.
- They are spore-forming intracellular parasites.
- Microsporidiosis is a significant concern in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV/AIDS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathology and clinical manifestations of microsporidiosis.
- To highlight the increasing prevalence in HIV-negative individuals.
- To underscore the potential severity and mortality associated with microsporidiosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of microsporidial infections.
- Analysis of documented cases and pathologies.
- Synthesis of clinical symptoms and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Microsporidia infect a wide range of tissues and cell types.
- Infections occur in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals.
- Pathologies include inflammation, cell death, and various systemic symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Microsporidiosis is a serious global health issue.
- It affects diverse patient populations.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe outcomes and mortality.