infectious diseases
Overview of Intestinal Protozoan and Microsporidia Infections
Introduction
Protozoa is a loose term for certain nucleated, unicellular organisms (eukaryotes) that lack a cell wall and are neither animals, plants, nor fungi. The most important intestinal protozoan pathogens that cause enteric infections in humans include (see Cryptosporidiosis ) (see Cyclosporiasis ) —see Cyclosporiasis ) (see Amebiasis ) —see Giardiasis ) Members of the phylum Microsporidia used to be classified as protozoa but are now, based on DNA studies, thought to be fungi or closely related to them. Multiple pathogenic parasites and nonpathogenic commensal organisms may be present in the intestine at the same time. outbreak in Milwaukee in 1993). Some gastrointestinal protozoa are spread sexually, especially with practices involving oral-anal contact. Several protozoan species cause severe opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients, including those with Immune system . are discussed elsewhere and include Malaria , 