Blastocystis sp. subtype 2 detection during recurrence of gastrointestinal and urticarial symptoms

Research output: Contribution to journalCase reportContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Christian Vogelberg - , Department of Paediatrics (Author)
  • Christen Rune Stensvold - , Statens Serum Institut (Author)
  • Stefan Monecke - , TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)
  • Anette Ditzen - , Kiel University (Author)
  • Konrad Stopsack - , Karolinska Institutet (Author)
  • Uta Heinrich-Gräfe - , TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)
  • Christoph Pöhlmann - , TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)

Abstract

Blastocystis is a common unicellular intestinal parasite in humans. Its clinical relevance is still subject to discussion with numerous conflicting reports on its ability to cause disease. A remarkable genetic heterogeneity among isolates suggests an association between distinct subtypes (STs) and pathogenicity, although a clear correlation between symptoms and subtype is lacking. Here, we report on a clinical case which possibly links Blastocystis sp. ST2 infection with the simultaneous occurrence of gastrointestinal illness and generalized chronic urticaria. Despite repeated chemotherapy with different antimicrobial drugs, both the gastrointestinal and cutaneous disorders reoccurred after short symptom-free intervals. Eradication of the parasite and permanent resolution of the patient's medical condition was finally achieved with the combined application of metronidazole and paromomycin.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)469-471
Number of pages3
JournalParasitology International
Volume59
Issue number3
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2010
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

researchoutputwizard legacy.publication#36150
Scopus 77955320724
PubMed 20363362

Keywords

Keywords

  • Blastocystis, PCR, Subtype 2, Urticaria