PREVALENCE OF BLASTOCYSTIS SUBTYPES IN HEALTHY VOLUNTEERS IN NORTHEASTERN POLAND

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Parasitology
• Public Health

Background:

• Blastocystis is a prevalent enteric protist associated with various diseases.
• Over 24 Blastocystis subtypes (STs) are known, with ST1-ST4 commonly found in humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the distribution and subtypes of Blastocystis in Olsztyn, Poland.
• To compare Blastocystis colonization rates with other developed countries.
• To identify demographic factors associated with Blastocystis colonization.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 319 stool samples from volunteers using copro-ELISA and PCR.
• Subtyping of positive samples through sequencing.
• Statistical analysis of demographic data (gender, age, dwelling place).

Main Results:

• Blastocystis colonization was detected in a significant portion of the study group.
• Subtype ST3 was the most prevalent (37%), followed by ST2, ST1, ST4, and ST7.
• Colonization rates did not differ significantly by gender or dwelling place.
• A statistically significant higher detection rate was observed in the 60-69 year age group (32.6%).
• PCR proved to be a reliable method for Blastocystis detection and subtyping.

Conclusions:

• Blastocystis colonization rates in Polish volunteers are comparable to those in other developed nations.
• Age, specifically older individuals, is a significant factor associated with Blastocystis detection.
• PCR is a highly effective method for identifying Blastocystis subtypes.