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Jiménez P, Muñoz M, Cruz-Saavedra L, Camargo A, Ramírez JD. Blastocystis genetic diversity in animal and human samples from different departments of Colombia using complete sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene (SSU rRNA) by Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT). Acta Trop 2024; 249:107090. [PMID: 38048971 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.107090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is an intestinal microeukaryote that has raised attention due to its wide distribution in animals and humans. The risk of zoonotic circulation primarily arises from close contact with infected animals. Therefore, the following study aimed to evaluate the diversity and frequency of Blastocystis subtypes in Colombian human and animal samples using complete sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. For this purpose, 341 human stool samples and 277 animal fecal samples (from cattle, sheep, goat, pigs, cats, and dogs), were collected from different Colombian regions and analyzed using PCR-based detection and full-length 18S SSU rRNA gene Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). Among the 618 samples from both hosts, humans and animals, the results revealed widespread Blastocystis frequency, with 48.09% (n = 164) in humans and 31.4% (n = 87) detection in animals. Dogs, cats, sheep, pigs, and wild animals tested positive, aligning with global prevalence patterns. Also, 29 human samples and 23 animal samples were sequenced using ONT technology from which 11 long-read unique sequences were generated and cluster with their compared reference sequences. The subtype distribution varied within hosts, detecting ST1 and ST3 in both human and animal samples. Subtypes ST5, ST10, ST14, ST15, ST21, ST24, ST25 and ST26 were limited to animals hosts, some of which are considered to have zoonotic potential. On the other hand, ST2 was found exclusively in human samples from Bolivar region. Mixed infections occurred in both animal and humans, 60.86% and 27.58% respectively. Moreover, to our knowledge, this is the first study in Colombia identifying ST15 in pigs and ST25 in sheep. The subtypes (STs) identified in this study indicate that certain animals may serve as reservoirs with the potential for zoonotic transmission. The identification of zoonotic subtypes highlights the use of Next Generation Sequencing as the depth and resolution of the sequences increases providing insights into STs of medical and veterinarian significance. It also reveals the coexistence of diverse subtypes among hosts. Further research is essential for understanding transmission dynamics, health implications, and detection strategies for Blastocystis occurrence in animals and humans, mainly associated to the role of animals as reservoirs and their close interaction with humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Jiménez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Marina Muñoz
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Lissa Cruz-Saavedra
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Anny Camargo
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia; Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad de Boyacá, Tunja, Colombia
| | - Juan David Ramírez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Biotecnología-UR (CIMBIUR), Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia; Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States.
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Boutahar M, Belaouni M, Ibrahimi A, Eljaoudi R, Aanniz T, Er-Rami M. Prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in Morocco: Comparative assessment of three diagnostic methods and characterization of parasite forms in Jones' culture medium. Parasite 2023; 30:64. [PMID: 38117274 PMCID: PMC10732137 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2023065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystosis is an infection caused by Blastocystis sp., which colonizes the digestive tract of various hosts, including humans, although its pathogenicity is debated. It is crucial to detect and distinguish the different forms of Blastocystis to understand better its impact on human health and its epidemiological evolution. This study evaluated three diagnostic methods on 105 stool samples: direct examination, culture in Jones' medium, and conventional PCR. PCR is considered the gold standard and revealed a high prevalence of Blastocystis (67.62%) compared to direct examination (20.95%) and culture in Jones' medium (51.43%). Although the sensitivity of direct examination and culture was 31% and 76.1%, respectively, their specificity was 100%. No significant risk factors were identified. A statistically significant association was observed between Blastocystis infection and abdominal pain. Microscopic analysis revealed various morphological forms. Molecular diagnosis is an essential tool to determine the true prevalence of Blastocystis, and studying the different forms of this microorganism will contribute to a better understanding of its biological cycle and, therefore, the impact of this emerging infection on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounia Boutahar
- Human Pathology, Biomedicine and Environment Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Technology of Fez, B.P. 2202 - Route d'Imouzzer, Fez, Morocco
| | - Mourad Belaouni
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Moulay Ismaïl Military Hospital, Meknes 50007, Morocco
| | - Azeddine Ibrahimi
- Biotechnology Lab (MedBiotech), Bioinova Research Center, Rabat Medical & Pharmacy School, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10100, Morocco - Mohammed VI Center for Research & Innovation (CM6), Rabat 10000, Morocco - Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
| | - Rachid Eljaoudi
- Biotechnology Lab (MedBiotech), Bioinova Research Center, Rabat Medical & Pharmacy School, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10100, Morocco - Mohammed VI Center for Research & Innovation (CM6), Rabat 10000, Morocco - Emergency Department, Military Hospital Mohammed V, Rabat 10000, Morocco
| | - Tarik Aanniz
- Biotechnology Lab (MedBiotech), Bioinova Research Center, Rabat Medical & Pharmacy School, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10100, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Er-Rami
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Moulay Ismaïl Military Hospital, Meknes 50007, Morocco - Human Pathology, Biomedicine and Environment Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Fez 30070, Morocco
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3
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Mei X, Su C, Zhang S, Jia L, Yang Z, Tian X, Zhang Z, Wang S. Development and application of recombinase polymerase amplification assay for rapid detection of Blastocystis sp. Parasitology 2023; 150:1221-1225. [PMID: 37860882 PMCID: PMC10801367 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common parasite in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The clinical diagnosis of Blastocystis sp. mainly depends on the microscopic observation of parasite, which can lead to false-negative results. An accurate and convenient diagnostic approach for Blastocystis sp. infection is crucial for effectively preventing and controlling blastocystosis. Herein, we developed a recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) method for detecting Blastocystis sp. The results showed that the DNA amplification by RPA established in this study could be performed within 5 min at 37°C, with maximum band intensity observed at 30 min. The minimum detection limit of RPA was 100 fg μL−1, consistent with conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR). Furthermore, the RPA method exhibited no cross-reactivity with 7 other non-target pathogens in the intestinal tract. Next, the newly established RPA method was used to analyse 40 fecal samples collected clinically, and the detection results were consistent with cPCR. These results corroborate that the newly developed RPA method has good sensitivity and specificity and offers the advantage of short detection times, which can be harnessed for differential diagnosis and rapid detection of Blastocystis sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefang Mei
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Changwei Su
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Shanrui Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Luwei Jia
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Zhenke Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Tian
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Zhenchao Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, PR China
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Hernández-Castro C, Maloney JG, Agudelo-López SP, Toro-Londoño MA, Botero-Garcés JH, Orozco MC, Quintero-Quinchia YC, Correa-Cote JC, Múnera-Duque A, Ricaurte-Ciro JC, Londoño-Álvarez LI, Escobar RM, Köster PC, Sánchez S, Carmena D, Santín M. Identification and validation of novel Blastocystis subtype ST41 in a Colombian patient undergoing colorectal cancer screening. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2023; 70:e12978. [PMID: 37195413 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is among the most frequent intestinal protists identified in humans globally. However, characterization of Blastocystis subtype diversity in humans is ongoing. We report here the identification of novel Blastocystis subtype ST41 in a Colombian patient undergoing colorectal cancer screening involving colonoscopy and fecal testing (microscopy, culture, PCR). The full-length ssu rRNA gene sequence of the protist was generated using MinION long-read sequencing technology. The validity of the novel subtype was confirmed via phylogenetic and pairwise distance analyses of the full-length ST41 sequence and all other valid subtypes. The study provides reference material essential for conducting subsequent experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Hernández-Castro
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Jenny G Maloney
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland, USA
| | - Sonia P Agudelo-López
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Miguel A Toro-Londoño
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Jorge H Botero-Garcés
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - María C Orozco
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Yulieth C Quintero-Quinchia
- Parasitology Group, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Corporation for the Study of Tropical Pathologies, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Pamela C Köster
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Sánchez
- Food and Waterborne Bacterial Infections Reference and Research Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research Network (CIBER) in Infectious Diseases, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica Santín
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland, USA
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Bodnia I, Pokhil S, Bodnia K, Pavliy V, Skoryk L. DISTRIBUTION AND FREQUENCY OF BLASTOCYSTIS SP. BY METHODS OF MICROSCOPY AND CULTIVATION IN FAECES OF RESIDENTS OF KHARKOV REGION. Georgian Med News 2022:85-89. [PMID: 36318848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. - is the most prevalent anaerobic intestinal protozoan parasite in humans and many animals; from 1 to 2 billion people in the world are colonized by this pathogen. Blastocystis sp. is found both in faecal samples (FS) of healthy people (asymptomatic persons) and - patients (symptomatic persons) with nonspecific symptoms of gastrointestinal tract, skin, joints and other organs lesions. The prevalence of people affected by Blastocystis sp. of both cohorts in the world vary widely (from 0.08% to about 90%) depending on the degree of the country's economic development, sanitary and hygienic conditions, cultural values, etc. Currently, microscopic, cultural, immunological and molecular genetic methods are used for Blastocystis sp. detection in stool samples. Each group of methods of Blastocystis sp. detection/identification in FS has its advantages and disadvantages. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in faecal samples in different cohorts of people (clinically healthy and symptomatic people with symptoms of gastrointestinal lesions) in Kharkiv by microscopic and cultural methods. Cohort of surveyed residents of Kharkiv (n=169) included 72 clinically healthy individuals and 97 symptomatic individuals with gastrointestinal tract diseases. All 169 FSs (their precipitates) were subjected to microscopic examination after the formalin-phosphate-salt buffer (FPBSCS) enrichment (concentration) procedure (pH=7.4) at 500 g for 10 minutes. Blastocystis sp. identification was carried out by means of microscopy of the faecal smears, which were stained by Wheatley's modification trichrome stain (mWTS) and by Heidenhain's iron-hematoxylin stain (HIHS). The inoculated material was a filtered suspension of native FS (200 μl) which was inoculated in 5 ml of liquid media RPMI/IMDMEM (mixture of equal volumes of RPMI and IMDMEM media) with antibiotics and serum. Blastocystis sp. culture growth was carried out under anaerobic conditions at 37 oC for 5 days. The blastocysts final identification was carried out by means of light microscopy of suspensions smears stably stained with mWTS HIHS. It was carried out a comparative evaluation of the effectiveness Blastocystis sp. detection methods as microscopy (smears of enriched faecal material stained with mWTS or HIHS) and cultivation (on RPMI/IMDMEM medium) based on the results of parallel studies of 169 FS from different groups of people by both methods. An insignificant increase (4.1%) of the Blastocystis sp. frequency detection/identification by means of cultural method in comparison with the frequency of microscopic parasites detection in all FS was determined: in FS from asymptomatic individuals (n=72) only by 2.7%, and in FS from symptomatic individuals (n=97) - by 5.2% (p>0.05). From all FS in which Blastocystis sp. was detected microscopically, the growth of these parasite primary cultures was obtained. Among the total results (negative + positive) Blastocystis sp. detection / identification by microscopic and cultural methods in all FS from humans rf reaches +0.92, and for groups FS from asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals - rf=+0.94 and rf=+0.90, respectively. In the sample of only positive results detection / identification of Blastocystis sp. by microscopic and cultural methods, the value of rf is: + 0.59 for all studied FS from humans, + 0.20 - for FS from asymptomatic individuals and + 0.66 - for FS from symptomatic individuals. According to the results of a parallel study of microscopic and cultural methods of 169 FS from different groups of people it was found that the cultural method dominates over microscopic in sensitivity of Blastocystis sp. detection in FS (20.6%) and is characterized by a much higher level of specificity (accuracy of parasite identification), which reaches 100%. The method of in vitro diagnostics helps to increase the efficiency of parasites detection in human FS, can be used for epidemiological studies to establish the population prevalence of protozoa, to determine the sensitivity of Blastocystis sp. cultures to drugs, control of the etiotropic blastocystosis therapy effectiveness, obtaining parasites antigens, study the disease pathogenesis and the virulence potential of pathogen strains of different origin, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Bodnia
- 1Kharkiv National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
| | - S Pokhil
- 3Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, I.I. Mechnikov, Ukraine
| | - K Bodnia
- 2Kharkov Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
| | - V Pavliy
- 2Kharkov Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
| | - L Skoryk
- 2Kharkov Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
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Kaczmarek A, Gołąb E, Sałamatin R. Improved Blastocystis spp. detection method using swabs with Amies transport medium and charcoal. Ann Agric Environ Med 2022; 29:303-305. [PMID: 35767768 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/142705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis is one of the most frequently detected protozoa in the human large intestine. One of the most effective and cheap methods for detecting Blastocystis in faeces is culture on a special medium in anaerobic conditions. Sampling faeces using traditional containers and their transport to the laboratory has certain limitations: a sample taken in this way should reach the laboratory relatively quickly, moreover, some patients are uncomfortable during sampling and protection of material in this way. We propose utilizing a swab for sampling and transportation of the faeces samples to be examined for Blastocystis instead of using traditional containers. We believe this is an excellent method allowing the material to be transported over longer distances without additional, and sometimes expensive, safety measures, and at the same time permitting the possibility of obtaining living cells after a relatively long period of storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Kaczmarek
- Faculty of Medical Science. Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Rusłan Sałamatin
- Faculty of Medical Science. Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Poland
- Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
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Adamska M. First report of Blastocystis sp. subtypes in natural water bodies in north-western Poland: a one-year monitoring. Int J Environ Health Res 2022; 32:862-869. [PMID: 32787444 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2020.1803804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Studies on the presence of Blastocystis subtypes in water samples are far less numerous compared with stool samples. The main aim of this study was to examine the occurrence of Blastocystis subtypes in 36 natural water bodies in north-western Poland in the period from winter 2009 to autumn 2010. Single PCR with the use of Blast 505-532/Blast 998-1017 set of primers was used to detect Blastocystis DNA in the obtained water samples. Sequencing of the obtained amplicons revealed the presence of ST1 and ST3 subtypes in five of the 36 (13.9%) examined water bodies within 1 year period. Further examinations with the use of new samples are needed in order to check if Blastocystis occurs in the examined water bodies at the present time, however, the risk of infection should be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Adamska
- Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
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Zamani R, Khademvatan S, Tappeh KH, Diba K, Abasi E. Comparison of diagnostic methods (wet mount, trichrome staining, formol-ether, PCR, and xenic in vitro culture) for the detection of Blastocystis in stool samples in Urmia educational hospitals, the Northwest of Iran. Ann Parasitol 2021; 67:795-803. [PMID: 35339119 DOI: 10.17420/ap6704.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis spp. is known as a common intestinal protozoan parasite in human and animals. The parasite has a worldwide distribution and is frequently detected in faecal samples in clinical parasitology laboratories. The goal of the study was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of formol-ether technique (FECT), trichrome staining, xenic in vitro culture (XIVC), microscopy of faecal smears, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods for detecting Blastocystis spp. in human stool samples. The prevalence of the parasite in the stool samples referred to educational hospitals was also determined. A total of 575 cases were assessed to detect the parasite. After collecting from patients referring to Urmia educational hospitals, the samples were examined by microscopy of faecal smears, trichrome staining, FECT, XIVC using Jones' medium, and PCR, to evaluate the presence of Blastocystis spp. Microscopy of faecal smears, trichrome staining, FECT, and PCR technique detected 94, 100, 96, and 44 positive cases, with the sensitivity of 71.3%, 74.4%, 74.4%, and 80.4% and the specificity of 99.6%, 99.1%, 100%, and 93.1%, respectively. XIVC method identified the highest number of positive cases (129 cases) among the other methods. Our findings indicates that XIVC technique is more sensitive method for the detection of Blastocystis spp. in human stool, as compared to direct smear, trichrome staining, FECT, and PCR methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouhangiz Zamani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shahram Khademvatan
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Khosrow H Tappeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Kambiz Diba
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Esmaeil Abasi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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de Melo GB, Bosqui LR, da Costa IN, de Paula FM, Gryschek RCB. Current status of research regarding Blastocystis sp., an enigmatic protist, in Brazil. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2021; 76:e2489. [PMID: 34231705 PMCID: PMC8240786 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2021/e2489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Blastocystis sp. in Brazilian studies over a period of years (2000-2020), as well as point out relevant aspects of this enigmatic organism. We performed a literature search using six sources of international databases. The data were divided into diagnostic by parasitological and molecular techniques, and relevant aspects. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 52 studies were included in the final analysis. The occurrence of Blastocystis sp. in Brazil ranged from 0.5% to 86.6%, as determined using parasitological techniques. The highest occurrence was in the North (27.3%) and the lowest, in the Midwest region (13.4%). In Brazil, most studies have employed molecular techniques and are concentrated in the Southeast region. The Blastocystis sp. subtype ST3 had the highest average positivity, followed by ST1 and ST2. These findings represent a panorama that reflects the reality of Brazil; thus, we believe that the effectiveness of parasitological diagnosis should be considered with regard to making an appropriate choice of technique for detecting Blastocystis sp. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of further studies in the context of molecular epidemiology with regard to this genus. Blastocystis sp. is not well understood yet, and very little information regarding this genus is available; hence, further research regarding this genus is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gessica Baptista de Melo
- Laboratorio de Investigacao Medica (LIM06-Laboratorio de Imunopatologia da Esquistossome), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Secao de Helmintologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical (IMT), Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
| | - Larissa Rodrigues Bosqui
- Laboratorio de Imunoparasitologia das Doencas Negligenciadas e Cancer, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina, PR, BR
| | - Idessania Nazareth da Costa
- Laboratorio de Imunoparasitologia das Doencas Negligenciadas e Cancer, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina, PR, BR
| | - Fabiana Martins de Paula
- Laboratorio de Investigacao Medica (LIM06-Laboratorio de Imunopatologia da Esquistossome), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Secao de Helmintologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical (IMT), Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Ronaldo Cesar Borges Gryschek
- Laboratorio de Investigacao Medica (LIM06-Laboratorio de Imunopatologia da Esquistossome), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
- Secao de Helmintologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical (IMT), Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, BR
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Abstract
Acute gastroenteritis with persistent vomiting, high degree fever and blood streaking stools often suggests bacterial aetiology in children. Authors report a 13-year-old boy presenting with acute watery diarrhoea with persistent vomiting, fever of 103°F, abdominal cramps and blood streaking stools who failed to show any response to parenteral third-generation cephalosporin for 72 hours. The stool examination revealed numerous cystic and amoeboid forms of Blastocystis hominis Metronidazole was started and the boy promptly responded within 24 hours. There was no recurrence of symptoms then onwards. The case highlights the crucial stool examination in case of acute diarrhoeal disease for rare aetiology.
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Delshad A, Saraei M, Alizadeh SA, Niaraki SR, Alipour M, Hosseinbigi B, Bozorgomid A, Hajialilo E. Distribution and molecular analysis of Blastocystis subtypes from gastrointestinal symptomatic and asymptomatic patients in Iran. Afr Health Sci 2020; 20:1179-1189. [PMID: 33402964 PMCID: PMC7751524 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v20i3.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite of human and animal hosts. The parasite has 17 subtypes, and among those at least nine subtypes (ST1-ST9) are found in human hosts. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence of different subtypes of Blastocystis spp. among the patients referred to Velayat hospital of Qazvin province, Iran. METHODS Overall, 864 stool samples were examined by using formalin-ethyl acetate concentration method and Trichrome staining. All specimens were cultured in clotted fetal bovine medium. Later, DNA extraction and PCR amplification of 18S ribosomal RNA gene region was conducted and phylogenetic tree constructed. RESULTS The results revealed 7.9% (68/864) of the study population were infected with Blastocystis. Intestinal symptoms were observed in 61% (36/59) of individuals positive for Blastocystis, with abdominal pain in 58% (21/36) of cases which was more frequent than other intestinal signs. No significant relationship was observed among the study variables. By molecular and phylogenetic analysis, three subtypes ST1 (45%), ST2 (30%) and ST3 (23%) of parasite were identified. CONCLUSION This study showed ST1 subtype was the predominant subtype among the positive specimens, meanwhile the highest haplotype and nucleotide diversity were clarified in ST3 subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Delshad
- Student Research Committee, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehrzad Saraei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Safar Ali Alizadeh
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | | | - Mahmood Alipour
- Department of Social Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Bahram Hosseinbigi
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Arezoo Bozorgomid
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Elham Hajialilo
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Singh A, Priyadarshi K, Raj T, Banerjee T. A case report of Blastocystis infection and Steven Johnson's syndrome. Trop Biomed 2019; 36:987-992. [PMID: 33597468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis species (spp.) is an emerging pathogen. There are several unsolved issues linked to this parasite ranging from its nomenclature, commensal status, standardization of laboratory diagnostic methods, genotypes and treatment. Recently, there has been an increase in reports of Blastocystis spp. from symptomatic cases which provide enough evidence of its pathogenic potential. A range of signs and symptoms, from gastro-intestinal to cutaneous manifestations have been attributed to Blastocystis infection. Few reports have established an association between intestinal infection with Blastocystis spp. and skin manifestations in form of urticaria, palmoplantar pruritus and allergy with complete resolution of cutaneous lesions with eradication of the parasite. In this report, we describe a case of Steven Johnson's syndrome (SJS) in a 6 years old girl along with infection with Blastocystis spp. marked by diarrhea and abdominal pain. Stool examination revealed the presence of all forms of the parasite with subsequent decrease in parasite burden and diarrhea over a period of time. Interestingly, the clearance of Blastocystis spp. from stool was followed by recovery from skin lesions and other symptoms. In this case, the course of SJS was clearly associated with Blastocystis infection. Though skin manifestation with Blastocystis infection has been previously reported, this is the first report of its association with SJS. This report indicates newer insights of the parasite that are less well studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India
| | - K Priyadarshi
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India
| | - T Raj
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India
| | - T Banerjee
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005, India
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Windsor
- National Public Health Service for Wales, Microbiology Aberystwyth, Bronglais Hospital, Caradoc Road, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 1ER, Wales.
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Hassan MA, Rizk EM, Wassef RM. MODIFIED CULTURE METHODOLOGY FOR SPECIFIC DETECTION OF BLASTOCYSTIS HOMINIS IN STOOL SAMPLES. J Egypt Soc Parasitol 2016; 46:541-548. [PMID: 30230750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis hominis provides major challenges for laboratory diagnosis due to its polymorphic nature in wet mounts which can result in confusion with other protozoa, yeast or even fat globules. Studies revealed that simple smears were less sensitive than in vitro cultivation using different media for the detection of B. hominis in stool specimens. Cultures of B. hominis are usually enriched by different types of sera to enhance growth and multiplication of the parasite. The aim of this study is to assess the use of two sera types other than horse serum that is commonly used in culture media for the growth, multiplication and detection of B. hominis in examined stool samples and comparing the results with those obtained using horse serum. Fifty stool samples were collected from patients suffering from different colonic manifestations attending Cairo University Hospitals. The samples were freshly cultured in three different culture media using horse serum (in Jones' medium), donkey serum (as a modification ii Jones' medium) and human plasma (in modified Pavlova's medium) in adequate preparations. Cultures were then left for incubation and examined by direct microscopy to detect Blastocystis hominis. The result showed of 50 stool samples studied,. 18 samples (36%) were positive results for B. hominis. The number of positive results obtained by horse serum, donkey serum and human plasma were 13,18and 11 respectively. Paired comparisons were made between each 2 cultures with each culture set as a reference once to detect the most appropriate one for diagnosis When horse was set as the reference method, donkey serum showed a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 86.5% with a 90% agreement between the 2 methods. While human plasma showed a sensitivity of 46.2% and specificity of 86.5% with an agreement of 76%. In addition, the vacuolar form was the commonest pattern observed in this study throughout all the three cultures.
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Silva-Díaz H, Flores-Esqueche L, Llatas-Cancino D, Guevara Vásquez G, Silva-García T. [Frequency and in vitro susceptibility antiparasitic of Blastocystis hominis from patients admitted to the Hospital Regional Lambayeque, Peru]. Rev Gastroenterol Peru 2016; 36:197-202. [PMID: 27716755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the frequency and antiparasitic in vitro susceptibility of Blastocystis hominis in patients admitted to theHospital Regional Lambayeque, Peru. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to August 2015 at 313 patients of all ages. B. hominis detection was performed on serial fecal samples by direct microscopic examination and microculture in modified Locke solution. The in vitro susceptibility testing against the drug metronidazole, nitazoxanide, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and erythromycin was performed in 24 strains of B. hominis, which grew up (microculture method) in 10 double concentrations of each antimicrobial (from 256 ug/ml to 0.5 ug/mL) plus a control. RESULTS 46.3% (145/313) of the sample had B. hominis, also the age between 12 to 17 years and 60 years was associated with higher frequency of parasites (OR: 2.93 and 2.62). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 90 of metronidazole and nitazoxanide was 3.19 ug/mL and 11.19 ug/ml, respectively, whereas the MIC 90 of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and erythromycin were above 256 ug/mL. CONCLUSIONS B. hominis occurs in high frequency in patients admitted to the Hospital Regional in Lambayeque, proving to be an important problem of public health in the region. Also B. hominis isolated from these patients were shown to be susceptible in vitro to low concentrations of metronidazole and nitazoxanide so they could be chosen for treatment of this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heber Silva-Díaz
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Metaxénicas y Zoonosis, Hospital Regional Lambayeque. Lambayeque, Perú
| | - Lorena Flores-Esqueche
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruíz Gallo. Lambayeque, Perú
| | - Dunalia Llatas-Cancino
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruíz Gallo. Lambayeque, Perú
| | - Génesis Guevara Vásquez
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Metaxénicas y Zoonosis, Hospital Regional Lambayeque. Lambayeque, Perú
| | - Teresa Silva-García
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruíz Gallo. Lambayeque, Perú
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Fréalle E, El Safadi D, Cian A, Aubry E, Certad G, Osman M, Wacrenier A, Dutoit E, Creusy C, Dubos F, Viscogliosi E. Acute blastocystis-associated appendicular peritonitis in a child, Casablanca, Morocco. Emerg Infect Dis 2015; 21:91-4. [PMID: 25528951 PMCID: PMC4285265 DOI: 10.3201/eid2101.140544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite increasing reports that Blastocystis infection is associated with digestive symptoms, its pathogenicity remains controversial. We report appendicular peritonitis in a 9-year-old girl returning to France from Morocco. Only Blastocystis parasites were detected in stools, appendix, peritoneal liquid, and recto-uterine pouch. Simultaneous gastroenteritis in 26 members of the child's family suggested an outbreak.
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Bovier P, Chappuis F. [Blastocystis hominis: an unwanted guest?]. Rev Med Suisse 2014; 10:1839-1840. [PMID: 25417343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
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Prodeus TV, Fedianina LV, Frolova AA. [Morphological identification of blastocystis]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2014:9-13. [PMID: 24738219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The authors have attempted to systematize the currently known specific morphological features of the composition of Blastocystis spp. existing in different forms and to present this material as a reference table, by understanding the need for further data clarification. In addition, the paper describes observations of variations in the forms of human blastocysts. In particular, it depicts the species of multinucleated cysts, the identification of which may cause difficulties in diagnosing and differentiating these forms with some representative species of the genus Entamoeba.
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Duda A, Kosik-Bogacka D, Lanocha N, Szymański S. [Blastocystis hominis- parasites or commensals? ]. Ann Acad Med Stetin 2014; 60:23-28. [PMID: 25518089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis) is a cosmopolitan pro- tozoa which parasitizes the human large intestine. This parasite had been considered to be commensal of the large intestine for a long time, because even an intense invasion may be asymptomatic. However, this species is now being regarded as a parasitic organism. In this paper the latest data concerning the epidemiology, diagnostics and treatment of B. hominis invasion have been cited and discussed.
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Sigidaev AS, Kozlov SS, Tarasova EA, Suvorova MA. [Investigation of the genetic profile of Blastocystis species in Saint Petersburg residents with gastrointestinal tract diseases in different age groups]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2013:19-23. [PMID: 24640126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A total of 1500 people, including 1273 children with various gastrointestinal tract diseases and 327 patients with chronic viral hepatitis C, were examined. Microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to determine Blastocystis in the feces. Blastocysts were detected in 33% of the patients with chronic viral hepatitis C and in 4.9% of the children. Genotyping established that Blastocystis species subtype 3 (antroponous) was encountered relatively rarely (25%) in these patients; there were most common Blastocystis species subtypes 5 (36.1%) and 6 (36.1%). Significant intestinal dyspepsia was noted in all the patients with chronic hepatitis C and Blastocystis invasion. Blastocystis species subtype 3 was prevalent (62.3%) among the examined children. The other subtypes were less frequently detected. These were subtype 1 (29.5%), subtype 2 (24.3%), subtype 4 (1.3%), and subtype 7 (3.8%) whereas subtype 5 and subtype 6 were not found in any case. The comparison of clinical symptoms in children could reveal the following tendency: there were digestive disorders and skin allergic reactions with Blastocystis species subtype 1 and subtype 2, respectively.
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Prodeus TV, Fedianina LV, Gritsiuk OV, Volkova IV, Begunova SV. [Blastocystis spp. culturing as a method for diagnosing the parasite]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2013:16-19. [PMID: 24640125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The technique for isolating blastocysts in the culture was assessed, by examining the fresh specimens from 196 patients with gastrointestinal tract (GIT) disorders and from 56 persons with an uncertain protozoological diagnosis. A set of techniques, such as triple examination of native smears, parallel inoculation of the Pavlova medium, and microscopy of obtained permanent specimens as may be required, contributes to the timely identification of protozoa, including blastocysts, in persons with GIT disorder. The efficiency of the technique for isolating blastocysts on Pavlova's medium and the native smear test averaged 34.8% and 49.4%, respectively. Among those known to be infected, the rate of parasite development in vitro was not greater than 52.9%. The culture showed amoeboids generally with the clinical manifestation of infection. The culture-based diagnostic method cannot be changed for routine microscopy techniques in detecting blastocysts, although it is essential to investigate the morphofunctional and phylogenetic properties of the parasite. The pleomorphism of cultured blastocysts with variability of growth properties was shown as a manifestation of phenotypic characteristics when isolating the parasite.
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Karadag G, Tamer GS, Dervisoglu E. Investigation of intestinal parasites in dialysis patients. Saudi Med J 2013; 34:714-718. [PMID: 23860891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To search for the opportunistic and other pathogenic intestinal parasites in dialysis patients, and to compare the methods used for diagnosis. METHODS This is a randomized study, which recruited participants from the dialysis patients. The study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Research Hospital, School of Medicine in Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey between June 2012 and March 2013. One hundred and forty-two patients were diagnosed with an end-stage renal failure, which underwent dialysis, and 150 healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study. Native-lugol, formol ethyl acetate sedimentation method, trichrome, modified trichrome, acid fast, and Calcofluor staining methods were applied to the stool samples. For the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia intestinalis (G. intestinalis), and Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica), commercially available ELISA kits were used, which detect antigen in the stool. RESULTS Parasites were found in 62 of the dialysis patients (43.7%) and 19 of the control group (12.7%). The most encountered parasitic agents in the dialysis patients were Blastocystis spp. (23.9%), G. intestinalis (8.5%), E. histolytica (2.1%), Microsporidia spp. (2.1%), and Cryptosporidium spp. (2.1%). The parasite detection rate of the formol ethyl acetate sedimentation method was found to be higher than native-lugol (p<0.05). CONCLUSION To protect the dialysis patients with diarrhea from parasitic infections, it is important to carry out interval stool examinations with trichrome, modified trichrome, acid fast, and Calcofluor staining methods, and the ELISA method, which detects antigen in the stool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulkan Karadag
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Tikhonova DV, Volkova IV, Morozov EN, Fedianina LV. [DNA diagnosis of blastocystis infection by PCR]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2012:27-29. [PMID: 23437719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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24
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Fedianina LV, Prodeus TV, Solov'eva OA. [Laboratory diagnosis of Blastocystis spp]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2012:52-58. [PMID: 23437730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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25
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Tikhonova DV, Fedianina LV, Pliushcheeva GL. [The specific features of the clinical picture of blastocystosis and laboratory methods for its diagnosis]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2012:44. [PMID: 23088151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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Salvi PF, Virgilio E, Bocchetti T, Costa G, Pascarella G, Balducci G. Blastocystis hominis and recurrent megacolon: a causative or fortuitous association? Am Surg 2012; 78:E198-E199. [PMID: 22472370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pier Federico Salvi
- Department of Emergency Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, University of Rome La Sapienza, St. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Fathy FM. A study on Blastocystis hominis in food-handlers: diagnosis and potential pathogenicity. J Egypt Soc Parasitol 2011; 41:433-453. [PMID: 21980782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Proper diagnosis of Blastocystis hominis in not performed routinely in medical laboratories of developing countries; consequently clinical significance of this common intestinal protozoon is liable to remain unsettled. Food-handlers are more prone to get and transmit this feco-oral infection. This work compared the sensitivity of direct diagnostic methods to detect B. hominis in stool, estimate the true prevalence among food-handlers in Sirte-Libya, to clarify the association between the parasite and gastrointestinal symptoms and the response to specific treatment. A total of 400 male food-handlers aged 18-50 year were included. Each was subjected to clinical questionnaire and 3 stool examinations by different methods. The results showed high prevalence of B. hominis in food-handlers (35.5%). Short- term in vitro culture (on Boeck and Derbholav's medium) was the most sensitive method for detection of B. hominis (35.5%), followed by permanent Trichrome-stained smear (27.5%); saline-sedimentation concentrated smear (21%) and direct iodine smear (14%). Of 108 cases having B. hominis alone, 68.5% were symptomatic. Diarrhea was the most frequent symptom (75.6%), followed by abdominal pain (66.2%) and flatulence (43.2%). Fecal parasite-load was significantly higher in symptomatic cases than asymptomatic; parasite and symptoms disappeared after metronidazole treatment. So, culture should be used on routine basis to detect B. hominis which should be considered pathogenic particularly when present alone in large numbers in symptomatic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouad M Fathy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Poirier P, Wawrzyniak I, Albert A, El Alaoui H, Delbac F, Livrelli V. Development and evaluation of a real-time PCR assay for detection and quantification of blastocystis parasites in human stool samples: prospective study of patients with hematological malignancies. J Clin Microbiol 2011; 49:975-83. [PMID: 21177897 PMCID: PMC3067686 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01392-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2010] [Accepted: 12/13/2010] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis anaerobic parasites are widespread worldwide in the digestive tract of many animal species, including humans. Epidemiological Blastocystis studies are often limited by the poor sensitivity of standard parasitological assays for its detection. This report presents a highly sensitive real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay developed to detect Blastocystis parasites in stool samples. The assay targets a partial sequence of the Blastocystis small ribosomal subunit (SSU) rRNA gene, allowing subtyping (ST) of Blastocystis isolates by direct sequencing of qPCR products. This qPCR method was assessed in a prospective study of 186 patients belonging to two cohorts--a group of 94 immunocompromised patients presenting hematological malignancies and a control group of 92 nonimmunocompromised patients. Direct-light microscopy and xenic in vitro stool culture analysis showed only 29% and 52% sensitivity, respectively, compared to our qPCR assay. Of the 27 (14.5%) Blastocystis-positive patients, 8 (4%) experienced digestive symptoms. No correlation was found between symptomatic patients and immune status, parasite load, or parasite subtypes, although subtyping of all isolates revealed a high (63.0%) prevalence of ST4. Two unexpected avian subtypes were found, i.e., ST6 and ST7, which are frequently isolated in Asia but rarely present in Western countries. In conclusion, this qPCR proved by far the most sensitive of the tested methods and allowed subtype determination by direct sequencing of qPCR products. New diagnostic tools such as the qPCR are essential for evaluating the clinical relevance of Blastocystis subtypes and their role in acute or chronic digestive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Poirier
- Clermont Université, Université d'Auvergne, JE 2526, Evolution des bactéries pathogènes et susceptibilité de l'hôte, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand
- Clermont Université, Université Blaise Pascal, Laboratoire Microorganismes, Génome et Environnement, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand
- CNRS, UMR 6023, LMGE, F-63177 Aubiere
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Service Bactériologie Mycologie Parasitologie, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ivan Wawrzyniak
- Clermont Université, Université Blaise Pascal, Laboratoire Microorganismes, Génome et Environnement, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand
- CNRS, UMR 6023, LMGE, F-63177 Aubiere
| | - Aurélie Albert
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Service Bactériologie Mycologie Parasitologie, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Hicham El Alaoui
- Clermont Université, Université Blaise Pascal, Laboratoire Microorganismes, Génome et Environnement, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand
- CNRS, UMR 6023, LMGE, F-63177 Aubiere
| | - Frédéric Delbac
- Clermont Université, Université Blaise Pascal, Laboratoire Microorganismes, Génome et Environnement, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand
- CNRS, UMR 6023, LMGE, F-63177 Aubiere
| | - Valérie Livrelli
- Clermont Université, Université d'Auvergne, JE 2526, Evolution des bactéries pathogènes et susceptibilité de l'hôte, BP 10448, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand
- CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Service Bactériologie Mycologie Parasitologie, F-63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Surangsrirat S, Thamrongwittawatpong L, Piyaniran W, Naaglor T, Khoprasert C, Taamasri P, Mungthin M, Leelayoova S. Assessment of the association between Blastocystis infection and irritable bowel syndrome. J Med Assoc Thai 2010; 93 Suppl 6:S119-S124. [PMID: 21280524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the association between Blastocystis infection and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in Thai patients, Phramongkutklao Hospital. MATERIAL AND METHOD A case-control study was conducted at Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand during 2007-2008. A total of 126 subjects were enrolled into the study. Sixty-six persons were enrolled in the IBS group and 60 persons were enrolled in the control group. Intestinal parasitic infections were determined using wet preparation and formalin-ethyl acetate concentration. Short-term in vitro culture was performed to detect Blastocystis sp. Additionally, stool specimens were cultured for pathogenic bacteria. Patients' history and physical examination were also recorded. RESULTS Of 66 IBS patients, 61 (92.4%) had abdominal pain, 50 (78.1%) had diarrhea, and 14 (21.9%) had constipation. In vitro cultivation revealed that 10.0% and 16.7% were positive for Blastocystis sp. in the control and IBS group, respectively. There was no significant difference of the prevalence of Blastocystis infection between these 2 groups (p = 0.203). CONCLUSION Blastocystis infection was a common parasitic infection which was predominant in both IBS and control group. The presence of Blastocystis sp. in stool did not imply gastrointestinal symptoms in the IBS patients. Further study of subtype characterization of Blastocystis sp. in a larger sample size of the case-control study might reveal a possible relationship between Blastocystis sp. and IBS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surapon Surangsrirat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, Thailand
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Smirnova MO, Ruzhitskaia EA, Pampura AN, Prodeus TV. [Blastocystis hominis infection in a baby with food allergy]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2010:11-15. [PMID: 20873373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The paper describes a rare manifestation of Blastocystis hominis infection in a 3-month-old baby with food allergy that appeared as atopic dermatitis and coloproctitis induced by food proteins (cow's milk, hen's egg). The fact that food allergy may be one of the predisposing factors in the development of clinical manifestations of B. hominis infection is discussed. The assumption that the amoeboid form of blastocysts accompanies the clinical manifestation of the infection is confirmed.
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Yakoob J, Jafri W, Beg MA, Abbas Z, Naz S, Islam M, Khan R. Blastocystis hominis and Dientamoeba fragilis in patients fulfilling irritable bowel syndrome criteria. Parasitol Res 2010; 107:679-84. [PMID: 20532564 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-1918-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2010] [Accepted: 05/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Studies have suggested a possible role for Blastocystis hominis and Dientamoeba fragilis in the etiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We studied the prevalence of B. hominis and D. fragilis in patients with IBS-diarrhea (IBS-D). Three hundred and thirty patients were enrolled, 171 (52%) with IBS-D and 159 (48%) were controls, respectively. Stool microscopy, culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for B. hominis and D. fragilis were done. B. hominis was positive by stool microscopy in 49% (83/171) of IBS compared to 24% (27/159) in control (p < 0.001). B. hominis culture was positive in 53% (90/171) in IBS compared to 16% (25/159) in control (p < 0.001). B. hominis PCR was positive in 44% (75/171) in IBS compared to 21% (33/159) in control (p < 0.001). D. fragilis microscopy was positive in 3.5% (6/171) in IBS-D compared to 0.6% (1/159) in control (p = 0.123). D. fragilis culture was positive in 4% (7/171) in IBS compared to 1.3% (2/159) in control (p = 0.176). D. fragilis PCR was positive in 4% (6/171) in IBS-D compared to 0% (0/159) in control (p = 0.030). B. hominis is common, while D. fragilis was less prevalent in our patients with IBS-D. B. hominis and D. fragilis culture had a better yield compared to stool microscopy and PCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javed Yakoob
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.
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Chandramathi S, Suresh KG, Mahmood AA, Kuppusamy UR. Urinary hyaluronidase activity in rats infected with Blastocystis hominis--evidence for invasion? Parasitol Res 2010; 106:1459-63. [PMID: 20358228 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-1825-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Accepted: 03/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The fact whether Blastocystis hominis can invade has always been in question. Apart from a few sporadic studies such as that done on gnotobiotic guinea pigs which showed surface invasion and mucosal inflammation of the host's intestine caused by B. hominis infection, no real documentation of invasion has been proven. Studies have shown that hyaluronidase is secreted during the penetration into the host's skin and gut by nematode parasites. Hyaluronidase activity in protozoa namely Entamoeba histolytica has also been described previously. This study attempts to determine hyaluronidase in urine samples of B. hominis-infected rats. The presence of hyaluronidase in urine provides an indirect evidence of invasion by B. hominis into colonic epithelium causing the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins namely hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is depolymerized by hyaluronidase which may be used by organisms to invade one another. In this study, the levels of urinary hyaluronidase of Sprague-Dawley rats infected with B. hominis were monitored for 30 days. Hyaluronidase levels in the infected rats were significantly higher on days 28 and 30 compared to the day before inoculation (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). During this stage, parasitic burden in infected stools was also at a high level. Proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6 and interleukin-8, were also significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the serum of infected rats. The study demonstrates that since no other pathogen was present and that amoeboid forms of the parasites have been shown to exist previously, the elevated levels of hyaluronidase in this preliminary finding suggests that the organism is capable of having invasion or penetration activity in the hosts' intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Chandramathi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Rostami Nejad M, Nazemalhosseini Mojarad E, Dabiri H, Nochi Z, Pourhoseingholi MA, Sahebekhtiari N, Habibi M, Zali MR. A case-control study of Blastocystis hominis among Iranian population. East Afr J Public Health 2010; 7:101-104. [PMID: 21413584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A case-control study was conducted to investigate the epidemiology and clinical features of Blastocystis hominis among Iranian patients with and without GI symptoms. METHODS Six hundred and seventy patients with GI and Six hundred and seventy patients without GI symptoms were enrolled as cases and controls respectively during 2006-07. Standard microscopic examinations following in vitro culture were used to examine the stool samples for presence of trophozoites and cysts of B. hominis. RESULTS Infection with B. hominis occurred most commonly in those with GI symptoms (5.67 %) compared with those patients without GI symptoms (3.43 %). The most common symptom in case group was abdominal pain (86.84 %). B. hominis was mostly found with Giardia lamblia in case group and with Entamoeba coli in control group. In addition, there was no significant relation between the presence of GI symptoms and the incidence of B. hominis. CONCLUSION B. hominis has long been described as a non-pathogenic protozoan parasite until recently, when claims have been made that it could result in pathogenic conditions. Thus, to confirm the complication is needed to additional study especially on molecular pathogenesis of this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Rostami Nejad
- The Research Center of Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Shaheed Beheshri University, M.C. Taleghani hospital, Yemen St., Evin, Tehran, Iran
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Suter Y, Saur M, Vavricka S. [Weight loss]. Praxis (Bern 1994) 2009; 98:1045-1054. [PMID: 19774510 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157.98.19.1045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Y Suter
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin, Universitätsspital Zürich
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35
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Stensvold CR, Arendrup MC, Nielsen HV, Mølbak K. [Blastocystis--an enigmatic parasite]. Ugeskr Laeger 2009; 171:2388-2390. [PMID: 19732521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis can be isolated from roughly 25% of patients suspected of intestinal parasitosis. At least ten subtypes (STs) have been isolated from humans and animals, and recent data demonstrate that the pathogenicity of the parasite is subtype-dependent. For instance, ST1 and ST7 are more prevalent among patients with symptoms than healthy individuals, whereas ST3 predominates among healthy carriers. The article sums up basic aspects of the parasite and gives an introduction to new data and points of criticism of previous studies seeking to unravel the pathogenicity of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Afdeling for Bakteriologi, Mykologi og Parasitologi, Statens Serum Institut, DK-2300 København S.
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Abstract
SUMMARY Blastocystis is an unusual enteric protozoan parasite of humans and many animals. It has a worldwide distribution and is often the most commonly isolated organism in parasitological surveys. The parasite has been described since the early 1900s, but only in the last decade or so have there been significant advances in our understanding of Blastocystis biology. However, the pleomorphic nature of the parasite and the lack of standardization in techniques have led to confusion and, in some cases, misinterpretation of data. This has hindered laboratory diagnosis and efforts to understand its mode of reproduction, life cycle, prevalence, and pathogenesis. Accumulating epidemiological, in vivo, and in vitro data strongly suggest that Blastocystis is a pathogen. Many genotypes exist in nature, and recent observations indicate that humans are, in reality, hosts to numerous zoonotic genotypes. Such genetic diversity has led to a suggestion that previously conflicting observations on the pathogenesis of Blastocystis are due to pathogenic and nonpathogenic genotypes. Recent epidemiological, animal infection, and in vitro host-Blastocystis interaction studies suggest that this may indeed be the case. This review focuses on such recent advances and also provides updates on laboratory and clinical aspects of Blastocystis spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin S W Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.
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37
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Stensvold CR, Arendrup MC, Jespersgaard C, Mølbak K, Nielsen HV. Detecting Blastocystis using parasitologic and DNA-based methods: a comparative study. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 59:303-7. [PMID: 17913433 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2007.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2007] [Revised: 06/05/2007] [Accepted: 06/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have targeted the relative performance of diagnostic methods used for the detection of Blastocystis, a unicellular organism often present in fecal specimens from individuals with and without gastrointestinal symptoms. Aims of this study included a comparison of the formol ethyl acetate concentration technique (FECT), permanent trichrome staining of feces fixed in sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin (SAF-PST), xenic in vitro culture (XIVC), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) regarding Blastocystis screening of 107 samples from 93 patients with suspected enteroparasitic disease. Compared with PCR, the sensitivity/specificity of XIVC, SAF-PST, and FECT was 89%/100%, 82%/100%, and 50%/100%, respectively. False-negative results generated by the FECT and SAF-PST appeared to be associated with Blastocystis sp. subtype 3. A comparison of results obtained by dideoxy sequencing of positive PCR products amplified from DNA extracted directly from feces and DNA extracted from 5- and 28-day-old XIVC of 10 randomly chosen Blastocystis isolates showed no disparities, indicating that XIVC has very little or no impact on subtype distribution or variation within a given specimen. It is recommended that short-term XIVC be used for cost-effective screening of fresh fecal specimens for Blastocystis infection to generate valid prevalence estimates and to identify isolates for molecular characterization in studies aiming to illuminate the molecular epidemiology of Blastocystis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Rune Stensvold
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
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Deniz K, Sökmensüer LK, Sökmensüer C, Patiroğlu TE. Significance of intraepithelial lymphocytes in appendix. Pathol Res Pract 2007; 203:731-5. [PMID: 17766055 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2007.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2007] [Revised: 06/11/2007] [Accepted: 07/06/2007] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the importance of the increase in intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) in the mucosa of the appendix. One hundred and four retrospective appendectomy specimens were examined to evaluate the IELs. Intraepithelial lymphocytosis was identified in 11.5% (12 cases) of the specimens. Of these 12 cases, 6 cases with intraepithelial lymphocytosis were associated with parasitic infection. No increase in IELs was found in the 36 appendices that were removed in other primary operations. A wide range of immunologic stimuli can raise IELs in the gastrointestinal system. However, in appendectomies with clinical signs of acute appendicitis, an increase in IELs is more likely to be related to parasitic infection. This increase should be considered for the diagnosis of parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kemal Deniz
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey.
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39
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Alarcón RSR, Amato Neto V, Gakiya E, Bezerra RC. [Observations on Blastocystis hominis and Cyclospora cayetanensis in routine parasitological examinations]. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2007; 40:253-5. [PMID: 17568902 DOI: 10.1590/s0037-86822007000200024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2006] [Accepted: 01/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We report some observations made from routine parasitological examinations on feces. The methods of Faust et al. and of spontaneous sedimentation in water are not enough to identify Blastocystis hominis. Significant percentage presence of this protozoan was found, especially when staining with iron hematoxylin was performed. Cyclospora cayetanensis was found in 0.7% of the cases, which suggests that this parasite should also routinely be investigated by appropriate techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Semira Rodriguez Alarcón
- Laboratório de Investigação Médica, Parasitologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP
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40
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Salinas JL, Vildozola Gonzales H. [Infection by Blastocystis: a review]. Rev Gastroenterol Peru 2007; 27:264-274. [PMID: 17934541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is an anaerobic unicellular micro-organism belonging to the kingdom Chromista, frequently found in the digestive tracts of humans and animals, the pathogenic role of which continues being controversial for human beings. Its genetic classification, which shows nine sub-types, some of which seem to have a role in cases with gastrointestinal symptomathology, opens a new field for research. In this article, an extensive revision is carried out which includes the historic development of the parasite, its taxonomy, epidemiology, morphology, vital cycle, as well as biochemical, cytochemical and genetic aspects, the pathogenic role in contrast with different variables which include the sub-types, quantity, response to the treatment and association with other pathogens. Finally, the clinical and therapeutic aspects are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Luis Salinas
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Perú
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41
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Su SL, Yan YM, Liao H, Chen GF, Zhang RQ, Xie QJ, Le X, Hu YQ, Zeng XY, Lan HY, Xie RL, Huang Z. [Dot enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detection of serum antibody to Blastocystis hominis in humans]. Zhongguo Ji Sheng Chong Xue Yu Ji Sheng Chong Bing Za Zhi 2007; 25:256-258. [PMID: 18038792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Serum and stool samples were collected from 322 undergraduate students in medical school. Using stool in vitro cultivation as golden standard, 178 cases were found Blastocystis hominis positive and 144 were negative. Dot-ELISA was used to examine the serum samples with a sensitivity of 92.1% (164/178) and specificity of 97.1% (141/144). This revealed that dot-ELISA can be used for antibody detection against Blastocystis hominis.
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Boorom KF. Is this recently characterized gastrointestinal pathogen responsible for rising rates of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and IBD associated autism in Europe and the United States in the 1990s? Med Hypotheses 2007; 69:652-9. [PMID: 17382484 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2007.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2006] [Accepted: 01/02/2007] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In 2006, a pathogenic variant of the common intestinal organism Blastocystis was discovered in patients who were experiencing chronic gastrointestinal symptoms. Most species of Blastocystis inhabit humans with no symptoms. The discovery of a pathogenic variant of Blastocystis is significant, because Blastocystis is related to Entamoeba, a similar organism with pathogenic variants that kill over 100,000 people each year. Recent research has shown that Blastocystis infections may be undetectable using existing clinical methods. Medical case reports from the Middle East, Europe, and United States suggest that infection with this variant may already be widespread and misdiagnosed as one of several functional disorders. HYPOTHESIS A more virulent or transmissible type of Blastocystis emerged in the Middle East in the 1980's, and was transmitted to Europe and the United States by military and more significantly vacation and business travel. The lack of adequate tests made it impossible to detect the infection. Transmission to the larger population resulted in rising inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) rates in Europe in the 1990's. The relationship between IBD and autism is explored, along with the possibility that the same pathogen causes both conditions. SUPPORTING DATA Serological and epidemiological findings are presented supporting the hypothesis. Blastocystis survives sewage treatment, shows low host specificity, and can be spread by many animals. Several communities which have been studied due to high autism rates are located close to rivers which receive large quantities of sewage effluent, such as South Thames (England), Olmsted County (Minnesota, USA) and many communities in Oregon (USA). CONCLUSIONS Scientists from other countries represent the first line of defense against emerging infectious diseases, but their publications on Blastocystis are not well known in the United States and Europe. With the publication of corroborating research by Western scientists in core scientific journals, it is hoped that an appropriate response from the public health system will be forthcoming. Investigation into the existence of infection in the groups mentioned with sensitive and specific tests should be performed. Such tests could include a serum antibody test and a Polymerase Chain Reaction test specific to the pathogenic variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Fiske Boorom
- Blastocystis Research Foundation, 5060 SW Philomath Blvd, #202 Corvallis, OR 97333-1044, USA.
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43
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Weitzel T. 2 children with acute abdominal pain and diarrhea. J Pediatr Surg 2007; 42:440; author reply 440-1. [PMID: 17270567 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2006.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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44
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Ozyurt M, Kurt O, Yaman O, Ardiç N, Haznedaroğlu T. [Evaluation of intestinal parasites in a period of four years in the coprology laboratory of a training hospital]. Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2007; 31:306-308. [PMID: 18224623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Parasitological examination of stool samples of 9867 individuals, submitted from both inpatient and outpatient departments to the Microbiology Department of an 800-bed Training Hospital between 1.1.2003 and 31.12.2006, revealed that 582 individuals (5.9%) were infected with intestinal parasites. Different diagnostic methods were employed in two different periods, and Blastocystis hominis, Giardia intestinalis and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar were found to be the most common parasites, respectively. Patients were predominantly male (67% (n=336) male vs. 33% (n=165) female) and aged between 15-25 years (36%). In addition, 14% (81/582) patients had multiple parasitoses. Despite being labor-intensive, parasitological examination of stool samples with necessary staining methods by experienced staff will surely help determine both the diagnosis and exact prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ozyurt
- GATA Haydarpaşa Eğitim Hastanesi, Mikrobiyoloji Servisi, Istanbul, Turkey.
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45
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Stark D, van Hal S, Marriott D, Ellis J, Harkness J. Irritable bowel syndrome: a review on the role of intestinal protozoa and the importance of their detection and diagnosis. Int J Parasitol 2006; 37:11-20. [PMID: 17070814 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2006.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2006] [Revised: 09/06/2006] [Accepted: 09/19/2006] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder in which abdominal pain is associated with a defect or a change in bowel habits. Gut inflammation is one of the proposed mechanisms of pathogenesis. Recent studies have described a possible role for protozoan parasites, such as Blastocystis hominis and Dientamoeba fragilis, in the etiology of IBS. Dientamoeba fragilis is known to cause IBS-like symptoms and has a propensity to cause chronic infections but its diagnosis relies on microscopy of stained smears, which many laboratories do not perform, thereby leading to the misdiagnosis of dientamoebiasis as IBS. The role of B. hominis as an etiological agent of IBS is inconclusive, due to contradictory reports and the controversial nature of B. hominis as a human pathogen. Although Entamoeba histolytica infections occur predominately in developing regions of the world, clinical diagnosis of amebiasis is often difficult because symptoms of patients with IBS may closely mimic those patients with non-dysenteric amoebic colitis. Clinical manifestations of Giardia intestinalis infection also vary from asymptomatic carriage to acute and chronic diarrhoea with abdominal pain. These IBS-like symptoms can be continuous, intermittent, sporadic or recurrent, sometimes lasting years without correct diagnosis. It is essential that all patients with IBS undergo routine parasitological investigations in order to rule out the presence of protozoan parasites as the causative agents of the clinical signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Stark
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Department of Microbiology, Victoria St., Darlinghurst, NSW2010, Sydney, Australia.
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46
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Stensvold R, Brillowska-Dabrowska A, Nielsen HV, Arendrup MC. DETECTION OF BLASTOCYSTIS HOMINIS IN UNPRESERVED STOOL SPECIMENS BY USING POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION. J Parasitol 2006; 92:1081-7. [PMID: 17152954 DOI: 10.1645/ge-840r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis hominis is a common enteric parasite of worldwide distribution. Its pathogenetic potential has not yet been established, although numerous case reports suggest that B. hominis may cause the development of various gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders. The detection of the parasite in stool specimens is conventionally done by microscopy of direct smears, fecal concentrates, or permanently stained smears; however, morphology-based diagnosis is problematic. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique for the direct detection of B. hominis in human stool samples. Primers were based on small subunit ribosomal DNA and able to detect > or =32 parasites/200 mg stool artificially spiked with cultured B. hominis. In the evaluation of 43 clinical specimens, the PCR was tested against the formol ethyl acetate concentration technique (FECT) and a culture technique, proving 100% test specificity and a significantly higher sensitivity than the FECT. The PCR method is recommended for screening clinical specimens for B. hominis infection and for use in prevalence studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rune Stensvold
- Unit of Mycology and Parasitology, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
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Abstract
Two children aged 12 and 11 years with a similar history of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever with abdominal tenderness, and muscle guarding at the right lower quadrant for few days were admitted to our hospital. They subsequently developed diarrhea but without clinical relief. Just before the decision of laparotomy, both patients were diagnosed as having Blastocystis hominis infection with light microscopic examination of the stools and were treated uneventfully with the appropriate antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesibe Andiran
- Department of Pediatrics, Fatih University Hospital, 06540 Ankara, Turkey.
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48
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Garavelli PL. [Blastocystosis or Zierdt-Garavelli disease: a clinical pathway]. Recenti Prog Med 2006; 97:397-400. [PMID: 16913176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The author presents the clinical pathway of blastocystosis, a disease due to Blastocystis hominis, an intestinal parasite that has long been enigmatic, which can occasionally be the cause of clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Luigi Garavelli
- Struttura Complessa a Direzione Ospedaliera Malattie Infettive, Azienda Sanitaria Ospedaliera Maggiore della Carità, Novara
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Hayashi M, Inamori M, Goto K, Akiyama T, Fujita K, Ikeda I, Fujisawa T, Takahashi H, Yoneda M, Hara K, Abe Y, Kirikoshi H, Kubota K, Saito S, Ueno N, Nakajima A, Hamada Y, Fukutomi H, Satsuta H. Blastocystis hominis infection in patient with regular dialysis. J Gastroenterol 2006; 41:605-6. [PMID: 16868812 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-006-1817-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2006] [Accepted: 03/22/2006] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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50
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Abstract
A 24-year-old woman had a 9-week history of second to third daily urticaria that began after an episode of contact urticaria to topical bufexamac. She was found to have an underlying gastrointestinal infection with Blastocystis hominis. This was thought to be clinically relevant as she had a history of mild chronic diarrhoea. After treatment of the Blastocystis hominis, her urticaria ceased. This could indicate the importance of performing stool microscopy and culture on all patients with chronic urticaria of unknown aetiology. The relationship of urticaria to intestinal parasites and the possibility that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications could act as cofactors that help precipitate an urticarial reaction is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Gupta
- Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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