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Journal Article Ppublish 2 citations

PubMed: 38117274 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2023065

Prevalence of Blastocystis sp. in Morocco: Comparative assessment of three diagnostic methods and characterization of parasite forms in Jones' culture medium.

Parasite 30:64

Authors: Mounia Boutahar, Mourad Belaouni, Azeddine Ibrahimi, Rachid Eljaoudi, Tarik Aanniz, Mohammed Er-Rami

Affiliations

  • Human Pathology, Biomedicine and Environment Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Technology of Fez, B.P. 2202 - Route d'Imouzzer, Fez, Morocco.
  • Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Moulay Ismaïl Military Hospital, Meknes 50007, Morocco.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Biotechnology Lab (MedBiotech), Bioinova Research Center, Rabat Medical & Pharmacy School, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10100, Morocco.
  • Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Moulay Ismaïl Military Hospital, Meknes 50007, Morocco - Human Pathology, Biomedicine and Environment Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Fez 30070, Morocco.

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.

MeSH

Infections, Parasites, Parasitic Diseases, Prevalence, Gastrointestinal Tract

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