Cystoisosporiasis

Cystoisosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the coccidian parasite Cystoisospora belli (formerly Isospora). Infection is transmitted faeco-orally and symptoms are typically of profuse watery diarrhoea with or without systemic upset. Acalculous cholecystitis is also associated with infection.

Detection of Cystoisospora belli oocysts by microscopy

• Sample type: Standard stool sample – Oocysts may be identified in stool samples, by modified Zn staining. Up to three samples may be necessary due to the intermittent excretion of this parasite.

Detection of Cystoisospora belli oocysts by PCR:

• PCR is not available for the detection of this parasite.

Detection of Cystoisospora belli oocysts by serology

• Serology is not available for the detection of this parasite.