Microsporidiosis (cont.)
How is microsporidiosis diagnosed?
There are several tests available to diagnose microsporidia infection. Microscopic examination of stained samples of body fluids, primarily fecal samples, allows for rapid diagnosis, although the exact species of microsporidia may not be identified. Urine samples can also be used to detect spores when the kidney and/or bladder are involved.
A powerful microscope, called a transmission electron microscope, is needed to identify the species of microsporidia. However, this form of testing is expensive, and it is not available for routine use in all laboratories.
Other methods, such as immunofluorescence assays and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, can also identify microsporidia infection in the research-laboratory setting.
Finally, blood tests and imaging studies can also assist in detecting microsporidiosis.
How is microsporidiosis treated?
The treatment of microsporidiosis is generally achieved with medications and supportive care. Depending on the site of infection and the microsporidia species involved, different medications are utilized. The most commonly used medications for microsporidiosis include albendazole (Albenza) and fumagillin.
For patients with diarrhea, intravenous fluid administration and electrolyte repletion may be necessary. Dietary and nutritional regimens may also assist with chronic diarrhea. Finally, improvement of immune system function with antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected individuals may also lead to improvement of symptoms.
How is microsporidiosis prevented?
For patients with immune-system deficiency, frequent hand washing and limiting exposure to animals suspected of being infected with microsporidia is recommended.
- Microsporidiosis is a disease that is caused by small parasites
called microsporidia.
- Generally, microsporidia do not cause disease in healthy people but rather in people with immune system deficiency.
- Microsporidiosis can cause chronic diarrhea, kidney
disease, and infection of the sinuses and eyes.
- Diagnosing microsporidiosis requires laboratory testing.
- Treatment of microsporidiosis requires medications and supportive care.
Last Editorial Review: 5/15/2008
- albendazole-oral, Albenza - Consumer information about the medication ALBENDAZOLE - ORAL (Albenza), includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug ALBENDAZOLE - ORAL.
- Chest X-ray - A chest x-ray is a radiology test that involves exposing the chest briefly to radiation to produce an image of the chest and the internal organs of the chest. chest x-ray can be used to define abnormalities of the lungs such as excessive fluid, pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, cysts, and cancers.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI In Adults) - Learn about urinary tract infection causes, symptoms, signs, diagnosis and treatment of UTIs in men and women. Antibiotics may be used to treat recurrent bladder infections.
Latest Medical News
Infectious Disease RSS