<![CDATA[Blastocystis is a common intestinal parasite, previously known as Blastocystis hominis, that is found worldwide in both humans and animals. Its role as a pathogen is debated because most infected individuals are asymptomatic, though it is linked to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting in some cases. Diagnosis requires finding the organism in a stool sample and correlating it with symptoms. While some infections may resolve on their own, treatment with antibiotics like metronidazole or other antiprotozoal medications may be considered if symptoms are severe. Blastocystis hominis infection, also called blastocystosis, is an infection with a single-celled parasite that is often asymptomatic, but can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gas. Infection is spread through the fecal-oral route, which includes ingesting contaminated food or water and poor hygiene. A microscopic parasite that can be found in the intestines and is being studied for its link to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a functional gastrointestinal disorder. Research is ongoing to understand Blastocystis' role, with some studies finding it in individuals with IBS symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain, while others find it in asymptomatic individuals, indicating the pathogenic potential is still controversial. Treatment for symptomatic cases may involve antibiotics, but diagnosis and treatment can be challenging as many infections are mild and resolve on their own. The prevalence of Blastocystis hominis varies globally, being significantly higher in developing countries (often exceeding 50%) compared to developed countries (typically around 10% or less). Transmission can occur through contaminated food and water, and via animal-to-human and human-to-human contact. Factors like sanitation, socioeconomic conditions, and personal hygiene play a major role in the parasite's prevalence. Blastocystis hominis infection in females is similar to in males, though some studies show slight prevalence differences. Many individuals are asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and anal itching. Females, particularly pregnant women, can also be at risk for iron deficiency anemia from this infection]]>
