Abstract :
Blastocystis hominis is a common intestinal parasite causing diarrhea in Blastocystis human and animals in developing countries. The present cross-sectional study was carried out during the period from October to December, 2021 in Wasit province of Iraq. A total 60 stool samples from both gender and different ages (two years to the 60 years) suffering from primary gastro-intestinal disorders. All stool samples were examined microscopically by the direct method for identification of B. hominis and for the presence of other intestinal parasites. The number and percent of infection rate with B. hominis among the examined samples 60 was 20 (40%) in both of adults and children groups, the age group (14 – 35) year showed the highest rate of infection 8(40 %) and the lowest rate 3 (15%) was in (1-60) years old. The number and percent of infection among children were 4 (20 %) and among age group of (36 – 50 years) were 5(25%). The number and percent of the infection among males were 12 (60%) while among females were 8 (40%). According to the residence, urban areas were reported 13(65%) and rural areas were 7(35%). The vacuolated type was more recorded from all examined stool samples during this study. Out of 60 stool samples examined 20 (40%) were positive with other intestinal protozoa. The most prevalent pathogenic intestinal parasites were Entameba histolytica and Giardia lamblia. The abdominal pain and distention were the most frequent symptoms associated with B. hominis infection followed by diarrhea.
