Blastocystis hominis is a tiny parasite. Symptoms of blastocystis hominis infection varies. Severe cases have symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal distension, loss of appetite, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and even fever and chills. The symptoms are persistent or recurrent, which can last for several days, months or even years. It can be intermittent for a few days or months. For most patients who have normal immune function, the disease is self-limiting. It usually lasts for 1-3 days. Mild cases do not need treatment. Severe cases can use metronidazole or quinine iodide. For metronidazole resistant strains, co-trimoxazole can be used.
How is Blastocystis hominis infection treated in practice?