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Coprological Characteristics of Blastocystis Spp. Infection: a Comparative Study From the Russian Federation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Intestinal parasitic diseases, particularly blastocystosis caused by Blastocystis spp., represent a global health concern, affecting up to 80% of populations in developing countries. Understanding the functional digestive disturbances associated with this infection is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the structural and chemical changes in the gastrointestinal tract during Blastocystis spp. infection using comprehensive coprogram characteristics and to evaluate the diagnostic value of its indicators. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 503 individuals with gastrointestinal diseases and confirmed Blastocystis spp. infection, compared with 150 healthy controls matched by sex and age. Fecal samples were analyzed without prior dietary standardization, using four preparations: native, Lugol's solution, Sudan solution, and glycerin. Analysis included evaluation of detritus, muscle and plant fibers, starch, and protozoa identification. Results: Infected individuals showed significant digestive disturbances compared to controls. Reduced detritus content was observed in over 50% of infected individuals, indicating impaired digestion. Over 80% exhibited poorly digested cylindrical muscle fibers. Digestible plant fiber was significantly elevated, varying with stool consistency (p < 0.05). Complete absence of starch digestion was observed in 100% of infected individuals, with 56.85% showing significant amounts (++) and 43.15% very large amounts (+++), contrasting with 98% of controls with no detectable starch (p < 0.001). Discussion: The findings indicate that Blastocystis spp. infection causes profound alterations in digestive processes, characterized by fermentation and incomplete digestion of carbohydrates and proteins. Coprological examination proved to be a simple, highly valuable diagnostic tool for detecting these functional disorders. Conclusions: Coprogram indicators serve as effective laboratory instruments for diagnosing parasitic diseases like blastocystosis and can guide therapeutic strategies in clinical practice.

Source: PERIÓDICO TCHÊ QUÍMICA

DOI: 10.52571/ptq.v23.n52.2026_03_bugero_pgs_25_41.pdf

Authors: Nina Vladimirovna Bugero, Svetlana Mikhailovna Aleksandrova, Anna Alexandrovna Titova, Alena Alekseevna Krainova, Daria Vyacheslavovna Yakimova

Institution: Pskov State University

Language: Portuguese

Topic: Parasitic Infections and Diagnostics

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation