TỈ LỆ NHIỄM BLASTOCYSTIS HOMINIS VÀ MỘT SỐ ĐẶC TÍNH LÂM SÀNG Ở NGƯỜI KHÁM NGOẠI TRÚ TẠI BỆNH VIỆN ĐẠI HỌC Y DƯỢC THÀNH PHỐ HỒ CHÍ MINH

Abstract

Background: Blastocystis hominis (B.hominis) is a protozoan commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract, and its epidemiological characteristics are common in developing countries. Some studies have suggested that this parasite is associated with colonic diseases, especially colorectal cancer. However, data on the infection rate and characteristics of B.hominis are still limited. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 499 individuals aged 18 and over who underwent microscopy and outpatient examination at the Gastroenterology Clinic - University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City from December 2023 to April 2024. B. hominis was assessed through microscopy of stool samples. Data on demographics, clinical symptoms, and microscopy results were collected. Results: The prevalence of B.hominis infection in the study group was 20.4% (102/499). The prevalence was higher in those with positive stool microscopy results for occult blood (29.6% vs. 16.8%, p=0.001) and other intestinal parasites (92.0% vs. 16.7%, p<0.001). In contrast, the prevalence of B. hominis infection was lower in the group with the presence of fungi in the stool (12.9% vs. 22.7%, p = 0.02). Conclusion: The prevalence of B.hominis infection in gastroenterology outpatients in this study is consistent with previous publications on the distribution of this parasite in developing countries. However, further studies using molecular biology techniques are needed to identify the subtype and clarify the role of B.hominis in colonic diseases.