Molecular diagnosis and identification of Blastocystis hominis at Wasit Province

Abstract

Blastocystis hominis is an enteric protozoan. It is frequently found in children and may cause chronic diarrhea. The present cross-sectional study was carried out during the period from October to December, 2021 in Wasit Province of Iraq. A total 100 stool samples from both gender and different ages (two years to the 60 years) suffering from primary gastro-intestinal disorders. All stool samples were examined microscopically by the direct method for identification of B. hominis and for the presence of other intestinal parasites. The number and percent of infection rate with B. hominis was 34(34%) in both of adults and children groups, the age group (14 – 35) years showed the highest rate of infection 12 (35.29 %) and the lowest rate was in ages ( 51-60 years) 3 (15%). The number and percent of infection among children were 4(11.76 %) and among age group of ( 36 – 50 year) were 10( 29.41%). The number and percent of the infection among males were 24 (70.58%) while among females were 10 (29.41%).. According to the residence, urban areas were reported 24(70.58%) and rural areas were 10 (29.41% ).