Frequency of Intestinal Protozoa in Patients Receiving Treatment at Van Special Physioactive Special Education and Rehabilitation Center.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of intestinal protozoa in disabled patients attending a rehabilitation center, thereby highlighting the significance of intestinal protozoa in individuals with disabilities.

METHODS

The study included a total of 300 individuals, comprising 200 disabled patients and 100 non-disabled individuals. Stool samples were collected from all participants and examined using the native-Lugol and modified acid-fast methods.

RESULTS

In the study, intestinal protozoa were detected in 41% of disabled individuals and in 9% of individuals in the control group (p=0.001). Blastocystis was detected in 18% of patients, Cryptosporidium spp. in 15%, Giardia intestinalis in 9%, Cyclospora cayetanensis in 5%, and Entamoeba coli in 4%. Among the subgroups, spina bifida patients had a protozoan infection rate of 83.3%, while the rates in other groups were lower. A significant relationship was detected between the presence of parasites and diarrhea, constipation, and loss of appetite (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Disabled individuals, especially those with spina bifida, are at risk for intestinal protozoa, and regular screening for opportunistic protozoa is essential for these patients.