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The diagnosis of Blastocystis hominis cysts in human faeces
1Department of Microbiology, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Abstract:
Blastocystis hominis cysts in faeces can be concentrated on Ficoll column. They are pleomorphic in shape having a mean diameter of 6.65 microns (S.D. = 2.32). They may or may not have a membranous layer surrounding them. The membranous layer tends to come off with pressure or dying of the specimen and corresponds to the fibrillar layer observed under the electron microscope. The Ficoll concentration technique is also useful for concentrating other protozoan cysts.
Insights
Ficoll column concentration effectively isolates Blastocystis hominis cysts from fecal samples. This method aids in studying these pleomorphic protozoan cysts and other parasitic forms.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Parasitology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Blastocystis hominis is a common intestinal protozoan parasite.
- Accurate identification and characterization of Blastocystis hominis are crucial for clinical and research purposes.
- Standard methods for isolating protozoan cysts from fecal matter can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the Ficoll column technique for concentrating Blastocystis hominis cysts.
- To describe the morphological characteristics of Blastocystis hominis cysts concentrated using Ficoll.
- To assess the utility of Ficoll concentration for other protozoan cysts.
Main Methods:
- Fecal samples were processed using a Ficoll density gradient centrifugation technique.
- Morphological analysis of concentrated Blastocystis hominis cysts was performed.
- Comparison with electron microscopy observations of the cyst wall structure.
Main Results:
- The Ficoll column method successfully concentrated Blastocystis hominis cysts from fecal specimens.
- Blastocystis hominis cysts exhibited pleomorphic shapes with a mean diameter of 6.65 microns.
- A surrounding membranous layer, corresponding to the fibrillar layer seen via electron microscopy, was observed and noted to detach under certain conditions.
- The technique also proved effective for concentrating other protozoan cysts.
Conclusions:
- Ficoll column concentration is a valuable technique for isolating and studying Blastocystis hominis cysts.
- The morphological description provides insights into cyst structure, including the outer membranous layer.
- This method offers a practical approach for concentrating various protozoan cysts in diagnostic and research settings.