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[Microsporidiosis: current state of a new parasitosis]
D Ruíz-Sánchez1, J T Sánchez-Vega, J Tay
1Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, D.F., Mexico.
Abstract:
Protozoa of the order Microsporida have become regarded as causes of several pathologies in patients with severe immunodeficiencies. Apparently they are transmitted to the human through fecalism, but also the respiratory route has been considered. People most affected are young males infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. The most important genera are: Enterocytozoon, Encephalitozoon, Septata, Nosema and Pleistophora. There are discrepancies about the biology of these parasites and little is known of their behavior in the human host. It is concluded that with the advent of AIDS, many nosological entities by opportunistic organisms, that were not previously considered as human infections are appearing. This work is a review of the literature published from 1959 to 1995, related to epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects.
Insights
Microsporidia, protozoa causing opportunistic infections in individuals with severe immunodeficiencies, are increasingly recognized with the rise of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This review covers their epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Context:
- Microsporidia are protozoan parasites increasingly implicated in human opportunistic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- The advent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has led to the emergence of novel human infections caused by previously unrecognized pathogens.
- Transmission routes, including fecal-oral and respiratory, are considered, with young, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected males being a key demographic.
Purpose:
- To review the literature on Microsporidia from 1959 to 1995.
- To consolidate information on the epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of microsporidiosis in humans.
- To highlight the evolving understanding of Microsporidia as human pathogens in the context of immunodeficiency.
Summary:
- This review synthesizes existing knowledge on Microsporidia, focusing on their role as opportunistic pathogens in severe immunodeficiencies.
- Key genera such as Enterocytozoon, Encephalitozoon, Septata, Nosema, and Pleistophora are discussed.
- Despite their significance, discrepancies in parasite biology and host-pathogen interactions persist, underscoring the need for further research.
Impact:
- This work provides a foundational review for understanding microsporidiosis, crucial for diagnosing and managing infections in immunocompromised patients.
- It highlights the expanding spectrum of opportunistic infections associated with HIV/AIDS.
- The review serves as a reference for clinicians and researchers investigating these protozoan pathogens.