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Isolation of a microsporidian from a human patient
J A Shadduck1, R A Meccoli, R Davis
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, Texas A & M University, College Station 77843-4461.
Abstract:
Several genera of microsporidia have been identified morphologically in human tissue but none has yet been propagated in vitro. These primitive, obligate intracellular parasitic protozoa are poorly understood pathogens of a wide variety of vertebrates and invertebrates. In humans they are especially important as opportunistic pathogens in AIDS patients. A microsporidian was recovered from a human patient and propagated in vitro. The organism has diplokarya, divides by binary fission, and often is found free in the host cell cytoplasm. The name Nosema corneum is suggested.
Insights
This study successfully propagated a microsporidian, Nosema corneum, in vitro from a human patient. This breakthrough advances understanding of these opportunistic pathogens, particularly in AIDS patients.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Microsporidia are primitive, obligate intracellular protozoan parasites.
- These pathogens are poorly understood and infect various hosts, including humans.
- They are significant opportunistic pathogens in Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) patients.