Researchers studying patients from several large University hospitals in Iran report that Blastocystis infection is found more frequently in individuals with higher serum iron counts, and is also associated with higher levels of C-reactive protein, occult blood, and erythrocyte sedimentation levels. Overall, 97600 stool examinations were done in 4 university hospitals. Parasites were observed in 46,200 specimens. Of these cases, 6851 cases had complete blood work information along with only B. hominis infection. In the control group, 3615 subjects without parasite infestation were included. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate level was significantly higher in cases with B. hominis infection (p < 0.05). C-reactive protein level was positive in 1.46% of cases and 0.5% of controls, which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Frequency of serum iron < 120 was significantly higher in cases with B. hominis infection compared to controls. Occult blood was positive in 0.93% of cases and in none of the controls (p < 0.05). For more information, refer to the paper from Pzgelad Gastroenterology.
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Jul 2015