Taxonomy: Class Blastocystea
Animal: Blastocystis hominis (pathology) 10 18.jpg
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Comment:
Chemotherapy of Blastocystis. There is still much to know about Blastocystis hominis, it has been implicated as the cause of acute and chronic gastro enteritis but also has been found in people who are asymptomatic. There are at least 2 discrete groups which differ in their protein and DNA contents. This may explain differences in pathogenicity and response to chemotherapy. It is ubiquitous world wide. (see Bibliography for reference details). There is no consensus on treatment. Keystone JS (Clin Inf Dis 1995. 21: 102-103) recommends symptomatic relief with a lactose free diet or high fibre diet for chronic diarrhoea in travellers. If symptoms persist and no other cause is found, Metronidazole is often recommended : 200-750 mg TDS for 10 days(children 35-50 mg/kg/day TDS for 10 days).

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