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Blastocystis hominis, a long-misunderstood intestinal parasite
1Charles Zierdt is at the Department of Clinical Pathology, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Parasitology Today (Personal Ed.)
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Blastocystis hominis, once considered harmless, is now recognized as a protozoan parasite causing intestinal disease in humans and primates. This review highlights its unusual biochemistry and emerging clinical significance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Parasitology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Blastocystis hominis was historically considered a non-pathogenic intestinal commensal.
- It is frequently found in stool samples of humans and other primates.
- Often overlooked, it could be mistaken for Entamoeba histolytica.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of Blastocystis hominis.
- To highlight its evolving status as a protozoan parasite.
- To draw attention to its unique biochemical properties.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Blastocystis hominis research.
- Analysis of historical and recent clinical observations.
- Examination of biochemical data.
Main Results:
- Blastocystis hominis is increasingly recognized as an agent of intestinal disease.
- The disease is typically self-limiting in humans but can be fatal in monkeys.
- The organism possesses unusual biochemical characteristics.
Conclusions:
- Blastocystis hominis is a significant protozoan parasite with clinical implications.
- Further research into its biochemistry may reveal novel insights.
- Its role in human and animal health warrants continued investigation.