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In vivo encystation of Blastocystis hominis

K Suresh1, G D Venilla, T C Tan

  • 1Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. suresh@um.edu.my

Parasitology Research
|February 25, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study observed Blastocystis in stool samples over six months, detailing its transformation from vacuolar to cystic forms. It confirms irregular shedding and identifies a precystic stage with a unique immature cell wall.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Parasitology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite.
  • Its life cycle, particularly encystation, remains incompletely understood.
  • Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms are associated with Blastocystis infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the ultrastructural changes of Blastocystis during encystation.
  • To document sequential changes in Blastocystis morphology in stool over time.
  • To confirm the existence and characteristics of a precystic stage.

Main Methods:

  • Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for ultrastructural analysis.
  • Stool samples from an infected individual with chronic symptoms were collected over a 6-month period.
  • Morphological changes from the vacuolar to the cystic stage were examined.

Main Results:

  • The study confirmed the previously reported irregular shedding of Blastocystis.
  • For the first time, sequential changes in Blastocystis encystation were recorded over a 6-month period.
  • A precystic stage was identified, characterized by an immature cell wall composed of a homogenous electron-dense mass.

Conclusions:

  • Blastocystis undergoes sequential ultrastructural changes during encystation in stool.
  • The identified precystic stage serves as an intermediate form between the vacuolar and cystic stages.
  • Understanding these transformations may offer insights into Blastocystis infection and transmission.

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