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Diarrhea due to Blastocystis hominis: an old organism revisited
Abstract:
We have reported a case of diarrhea caused by Blastocystis hominis, an intestinal protozoan parasite of man. The organism is present in small numbers in up to one fifth of stool samples in hospitalized patients, but is associated with diarrhea in only heavily infested patients. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, crampy abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever, gas, malaise, and chills. Fecal leukocytes are occasionally seen. The pathophysiologic mechanism of the diarrhea is not clear. Not all patients having large parasite burdens are symptomatic. Metronidazole, 1 to 2 gm/day orally in divided doses, is the treatment of choice.
Insights
Blastocystis hominis, an intestinal protozoan, can cause diarrhea in heavily infested patients. Metronidazole is the recommended treatment for this parasitic infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Blastocystis hominis is a common intestinal protozoan parasite found in human stool samples.
- While often asymptomatic, it can be associated with gastrointestinal symptoms in some individuals.
Observation:
- This report details a case of diarrhea attributed to Blastocystis hominis infection.
- Symptoms observed in affected patients include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, gas, malaise, and chills.
- Fecal leukocytes were occasionally present, and the exact mechanism causing diarrhea remains unclear.
Findings:
- Heavy infestation with Blastocystis hominis is linked to symptomatic diarrhea.
- Not all individuals with high parasite loads exhibit symptoms.
- Metronidazole, administered orally at 1-2 grams daily in divided doses, is identified as the primary treatment.
Implications:
- Understanding the clinical significance of Blastocystis hominis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
- Further research into the pathophysiology of Blastocystis hominis-induced diarrhea is warranted.
- Metronidazole provides an effective therapeutic option for symptomatic Blastocystis hominis infections.