Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026
15:43
Long Term Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Airway Infection in Mice
Published on: March 17, 2014
Protozoa in respiratory pathology: a review
R Martínez-Girón1, J G Esteban, A Ribas
1Protozoal Respiratory Pathology Research Unit, Fundación INCLINICA, Anatomical Pathology Service, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain. rmartinezgiron@hotmail.com
The European Respiratory Journal
|November 4, 2008
Summary
Protozoa can cause uncommon respiratory illnesses, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. This review examines key protozoa and recent findings on these emerging respiratory infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Protozoa are microorganisms capable of affecting the respiratory system.
- Protozoal respiratory diseases are uncommon, often linked to compromised immunity (e.g., AIDS, post-transplant, hematologic malignancies, corticosteroid therapy).
- Travel to endemic areas and immigration are also risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on protozoa affecting the respiratory tract.
- To detail and comment on the latest research findings regarding these pathogens.
- To address the anticipated increase in cases and emergence of new protozoal diseases.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review across various medical disciplines.
- Identification and analysis of publications concerning principal protozoa genera.
- Synthesis of recent scientific findings and clinical observations.
Main Results:
- The review covers a range of protozoa including Entamoeba, Acanthamoeba, Leishmania, Plasmodium, and others.
- Discussion focuses on the clinical manifestations and epidemiological factors associated with protozoal respiratory infections.
- Highlights recent advancements in understanding and managing these conditions.
Conclusions:
- Protozoal respiratory infections represent a growing concern, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Continued research and surveillance are crucial for managing emerging and uncommon respiratory diseases caused by protozoa.
- Understanding risk factors like immunosuppression and travel is key to prevention and diagnosis.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
The human respiratory tract, comprising the upper and lower segments, serves as a critical interface with the external environment. The upper respiratory tract (URT)—including the nostrils, sinuses, pharynx, and oropharynx—is heavily colonized by microbes, while the lower respiratory tract (LRT), composed of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs, was long thought to be sterile. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that the lungs are not devoid of microbes but act more like...
01:29Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that leads to inflammation of the lung parenchyma, often resulting in the accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the alveoli and airways. Unlike the watery, low-protein fluid exudate in pulmonary edema, the exudate in this case is a thick fluid rich in immune cells, proteins, and debris produced during infection and inflammation.This impairs gas exchange and can lead to consolidation of lung tissue. The infection may be caused by a...
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that targets the lungs, specifically the alveoli. These tiny air sacs, essential for oxygen exchange, become engorged with pus and fluid, severely hindering breathing, decreasing oxygen absorption, and causing significant pain and discomfort during respiration.
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
01:17Other Pulmonary Disorders
Respiratory disorders encompass a range of conditions with varying levels of severity. Asthma, marked by chronic airway inflammation and hypersensitivity, is one such condition. It can lead to airway obstruction due to factors like bronchial spasms, mucosal edema, increased mucus secretion, or epithelial damage. Asthma triggers are diverse, ranging from allergens to emotional upset, and treatment focuses on both immediate relief through bronchodilators and long-term inflammation suppression.
01:31Common Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory disorders, a prevalent health concern globally, are generally divided into two primary categories: upper and lower respiratory tract disorders. The categorization is based on the area of the respiratory system they affect.
Upper respiratory disorders impact the airways above the vocal cords, encompassing areas like the nose, sinuses, and throat. Various conditions fall under this category, including the common cold and allergic rhinitis. These disorders can stem from several causes,...
Upper respiratory disorders impact the airways above the vocal cords, encompassing areas like the nose, sinuses, and throat. Various conditions fall under this category, including the common cold and allergic rhinitis. These disorders can stem from several causes,...
01:29Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease
Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a widespread pathogen that primarily targets infants and young children but also poses a serious health risk to elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Belonging to the Pneumoviridae family, RSV is a negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus within the Pneumovirus genus. Its global health burden is significant, with millions of cases annually resulting in hospitalizations and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings. Although most...