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Myositis due to Pleistophora (Microsporidia) in a patient with AIDS
G L Chupp1, J Alroy, L S Adelman
1Department of Medicine, New England Medical Center Hospitals, Boston, Massachusetts.
Abstract:
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular protozoa that parasitize both vertebrates and invertebrates and are now recognized as important pathogens in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). We describe the clinical and morphological features of a case of pleistophora (microsporidian) myositis in a patient with AIDS and delineate the stages of the microsporidian life cycle, as visualized by light and electron microscopy. We discuss significant aspects of microsporidian infections in humans and of myopathy attributable to other causes in HIV-1-infected individuals. As far as we know, ours is only the second reported case of microsporidian myositis and the first reported case in a patient with documented HIV-1 infection.
Insights
Microsporidian myositis, a rare infection, is detailed in an AIDS patient. This case highlights the clinical and morphological features of Pleistophora infection in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Microsporidia are opportunistic pathogens, particularly in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1).
- Microsporidian infections can cause myositis, a muscle inflammation, presenting diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A case of Pleistophora myositis in an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patient is presented.
- Clinical and morphological characteristics of the infection were documented.
- The microsporidian life cycle stages were visualized using light and electron microscopy.
Findings:
- This is the second reported case of microsporidian myositis and the first in a patient with confirmed HIV-1 infection.
- The study details the pathology of Pleistophora infection in muscle tissue.
- Differential diagnosis of myopathy in HIV-1 infected individuals is discussed.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of microsporidiosis in immunocompromised hosts.
- It underscores the importance of considering microsporidian infections in the differential diagnosis of myopathy in HIV-1 patients.
- Further research into microsporidian pathogenesis and treatment is warranted.