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[Blastocystis hominis: a common commensal in the colon. Study of prevalence in different populations of Paris]
1Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Coprologie, Paris.
Objectives:
To compare the prevalence of Blastocystis hominis in different population categories in Paris, including immunodepressed subjects.
Methods:
Stool examinations were performed for 7,677 patients to determine the prevalence of Blastocystis hominis.
Results:
Prevalence varied according to the population group: subjects free of any digestive tract disorders 17.4%; adults with digestive tract disorders 19.8% (this level was independent of digestive tract motility and of ethnic origin); children 13.8% (p < 0.01). In HIV-positive patients, the prevalence in immunocompetent patients was 19.6% compared with 15 to 16% in patients with AIDS (difference non significant). Blastocystis hominis was shown to be non-contagious in children and was not found to be sexually transmitted in homosexual men.
Conclusion:
Generally, Blastocystis hominis infection resolves spontaneous before any manifestation of the protozoa. This common parasite is a commensal germ of the intestinal tract, even in subjects free of gastro-intestinal manifestations, and does not usually require prescription of an antibiotic. In exceptional cases with rapid proliferation, treatment can be proposed with nitroimidazol, particularly for certain strains with an abnormal variability.
Insights
Blastocystis hominis is a common intestinal parasite found in various populations in Paris. This protozoa infection often resolves spontaneously and is generally considered a commensal, not typically requiring antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Blastocystis hominis is a prevalent protozoan parasite found in the human intestinal tract.
- Its clinical significance and prevalence across diverse populations remain areas of interest.
- Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for public health and clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Blastocystis hominis in different population groups in Paris.
- To investigate the prevalence in specific categories, including immunocompromised individuals.
- To compare infection rates across various demographic and health statuses.
Main Methods:
- Stool examinations were conducted on a large cohort of 7,677 patients.
- Prevalence data were analyzed across different population segments.
- Statistical comparisons were made between groups, including HIV-positive patients and children.
Main Results:
- Prevalence varied by group: 17.4% in healthy subjects, 19.8% in adults with digestive disorders, and 13.8% in children (p < 0.01).
- In HIV-positive patients, prevalence was 19.6% in immunocompetent individuals versus 15-16% in AIDS patients (non-significant difference).
- Blastocystis hominis was found to be non-contagious in children and not sexually transmitted in homosexual men.
Conclusions:
- Blastocystis hominis infection typically resolves spontaneously and is often asymptomatic.
- It is considered a commensal organism in the gut, usually not requiring antibiotic treatment.
- Treatment with nitroimidazoles may be considered in exceptional cases of rapid proliferation or specific strains.