Cystoisosporiasis
Cystoisospora belli, formerly Isospora belli
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis:
detection of oocysts by UV fluorescence or microscopy of stools, duodenal aspirates or intestinal tissue biopsy in persons with chronic, mostly watery diarrhea. If the diarrhea lasts > 4 weeks, the diagnosis of cystoisosporiasis is an AIDS defining illness
Notes on treatment:
besides antiprotozoal treatment, additional measures are symptomatic treatment, rehydration and electrolyte management. see also Anti-infective/ART interaction table for treatment optimization
Drug / Dose | Comments | |
---|---|---|
Preferred therapy |
TMP-SMX |
Treat minimally 10 days, increase duration to 3-4 weeks if symptoms worsen or persist. Treat minimally 10 days, Increase dose to 2 x 2 tablet/day, if symptoms worsen or persist |
Alternative therapy, if TMP-SMX is not tolerated |
pyrimethamine |
10 days |
OR ciprofloxacin 500 mg bid po |
7 days |
Secondary Prophylaxis / Maintenance Therapy
Stop: if CD4 count > 200 cells/μL and HIV-VL undetectable over 6 months and no signs of persistent cystoisosporiasis
Drug / Dose | Comments | |
---|---|---|
Preferred therapy |
TMP-SMX |
|
Alternative therapy, if TMP-SMX is not tolerated |
pyrimethamine |
Monitor for myelotoxicity, mostly neutropenia, for pyrimethamine |