Summary
Isosporiasis is an exclusively human tropical parasitosis caused by the protozoa Isospora belli. The prevalence in tropical zones ranges from 1% in immunocompetent individuals to 10% in immunocompromised individuals. Infection occurs through ingestion of contaminated food. In immunocompetent individuals, the parasitosis leads to febrile diarrhoea associated with alterations in blood composition (increase in the number of polynuclear eosinophiles). In immunocompromised individuals, in particular those infected with HIV, the diarrhoea is chronic and may lead to severe weight loss. Diagnosis is made following parasitological examination of the stools. Treatment relies on cotrimoxazole administration but relapse usually occurs after cessation of treatment in immunosuppressed patients. *Author: Dr L. Paris (December 2006)*.
