Human microsporidial infections

Omalu, I.C.J.; Duhlinska, D.D.; Anyanwu, G.I.; Pam, V.A. and Inyama, P.U. (2006) Human microsporidial infections. Online Journal Of Health And Allied Sciences, 5 (3). ISSN 0972-5997

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Official URL: http://www.ojhas.org/issue19/2006-3-2.htm

Abstract

Microsporidia are eukaryotic, spore forming obligate intracellular parasites, first recognised over 100 years ago. Microsporidia are becoming increasingly recognised as infectious pathogens causing intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases in both immuno-competent and immuno-suppressed patients. They are characterised by the production of resistant spores that vary in size depending on the species; and poses a unique organelle, the polar tubule (polar filament), which is coiled inside the spore as demonstrated by its ultra structure. Other unusual characteristics are the lack of mitochondria and the prokaryotic-like ribosomes, which indicate the primitive nature of the group. Presently there are seven genera, Enterocytozoon, Encephalitozoon, Nosema, Pleistophora, Trachi pleistophora , Brachiola, vittaforma species which have been reported from human hosts as agents of systemic, ocular, intestinal and muscular infections, are described and the diagnosis, treatment, and source of infections discussed.

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