ABSTRACT

We aimed to demonstrate that Pentatrichomonas hominis may also be an agent, although rare, in diarrheal episodes. Stool samples were first examined macroscopically and microscopically during routine parasitological examinations. Samples were then evaluated by Native– Lugol and formol-ethyl acetate centrifugation method. To exclude other pathogenic bacterial agents, a bacteriological culture method was applied. Samples were evaluated using a qualitative immunochromatographic test kit for rotavirus and adenovirus. We presented three cases of 77-year-old and 10-year-old male and 9-year-old female patients. Cases 1 and 2 were admitted to the hospital with complaints of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness in July 2013. Leukocytes and active P. hominis trophozoites were detected. No bacterial and other parasitic and viral agents were found in their stool specimens. Oral metronidazole treatments were administered to the patients. In Case 3, P. hominis trophozoites were detected in the cellophane band in the plastic locked bag which could survive for 48 hduring a field survey in May 2012. Case 3 was contacted and advised to visit a pediatrician. P. hominis is a rare parasitic zoonosis, and we believe that it should not be ignored among diarrheal agents.

Keywords: Pentatrichomonas hominis, diarrhea, trichomonad