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[Microsporidial infections in immunocompromised hospitalized patients]
1Ustav epidemiológie, LF UPJS, Kosice.
Abstract:
Microsporidia Encephalitozoon cuniculi, obligate intracellular sporeforming protozoan parasite infecting a wide range of vertebrate and invertebrate host, has been described as opportunistic pathogen in severely immunocompromised human host. An antibody immune response to the presence of antibodies against Encephalitozoon cuniculi was investigated serologically using indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). Of the total number of 113 sera from immunologically compromised patients examined, 5 were positive at the titre 1:32, 5 at the titre 1:64, and 6 at the titre 1:256. From total number of positive respondent patients were 12 children and 4 adults.
Insights
Antibodies against Encephalitozoon cuniculi were detected in immunocompromised patients using indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). This opportunistic pathogen highlights the need for immune monitoring in vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Encephalitozoon cuniculi is an opportunistic protozoan parasite.
- It infects various hosts and can cause disease in immunocompromised humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antibody immune response to Encephalitozoon cuniculi in immunocompromised patients.
- To serologically detect antibodies against E. cuniculi.
Main Methods:
- Indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) was employed.
- 113 sera from immunocompromised patients were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 16 out of 113 sera tested positive for antibodies against E. cuniculi.
- Positive results were observed at titres of 1:32, 1:64, and 1:256.
- The majority of positive cases (12/16) were children.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the presence of Encephalitozoon cuniculi antibodies in immunocompromised individuals.
- Children appear to be a significant demographic affected.
- IFAT is a viable method for detecting anti-E. cuniculi antibodies in this population.