Blastocystis hominis infection

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors Complications

Preparing for your appointment Tests and diagnosis Treatments and drugs Prevention

Definition

Blastocystis hominis (B. hominis) is a microscopic parasite sometimes found in the stools of healthy people as well as in the stool of those who have diarrhea, abdominal pain or other gastrointestinal problems. However, it's not clear whether Blastocystis hominis actually causes an infection or if it simply resides in the digestive tract without causing harm.

If you have Blastocystis hominis in your stool without signs or symptoms of an infection, you don't need treatment. Even if you have symptoms, the Blastocystis hominis infection usually clears up on its own. If you have signs and symptoms that don't improve, your doctor may prescribe medications, although the drugs used to treat Blastocystis hominis infections aren't always effective.

NEXT:

Symptoms