Parasitological and molecular identification and subtype-specific clinical correlates of Blastocystis sp. in HIV-positive patients: Diagnostic and epidemiological insights from Northwest Iran.

OBJECTIVES

Blastocystis sp. is a commonly detected intestinal protozoan in immunocompromised individuals, including people living with HIV, yet its clinical relevance remains uncertain. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, molecular subtypes, and clinical associations of Blastocystis sp. infection among HIV-positive patients in Northwest Iran.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, stool samples from 70 HIV-positive patients referred to the Urmia Central Health Centre (2022-2023) were examined using direct microscopy, formalin-ether concentration, and culture. Molecular detection and subtyping were performed via PCR amplification and sequencing of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Associations between infection, gastrointestinal symptoms, and CD4⁺ T-cell counts were statistically analysed.

RESULTS

Blastocystis sp. was identified in 25 (35.7%) of the 70 patients by microscopy and culture. PCR amplification succeeded in 23 (92%) of these 25 isolates. Sequencing revealed three subtypes: ST3 (52.2%), ST2 (30.4%), and ST1 (17.4%). Infection was significantly associated with gastrointestinal manifestations (p < 0.001). Mean CD4⁺ T-cell counts were markedly lower in Blastocystis-positive patients than in uninfected individuals, with the lowest values observed in those infected with ST1 (187.3 ± 156.2 cells/µL).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates a considerable prevalence of Blastocystis sp. among HIV-positive patients in Northwest Iran and a significant association between infection and gastrointestinal symptoms. Reduced CD4⁺ counts may increase susceptibility to Blastocystis infection. Routine laboratory detection of Blastocystis sp. in HIV-infected populations may improve understanding of its clinical relevance in immunocompromised patients.