Human Coccidiosis — A Possible Cause of Malabsorption

Abstract

Nineteen biopsies of the small-bowel mucosa obtained from six patients infected with coccidia (Isospora belli) revealed a spectrum of abnormalities. All the patients had coccidia in their specimens. All the forms of the endogenous life cycle of the organism were identified within the epithelium. Detection of any of these stages of development is diagnostic of coccidiosis. Oocysts were found in the intestinal contents of one patient, and schizonts in another. All the patients had diarrhea and steatorrhea. Three died, one from pulmonary embolism. The therapy given was ineffective. Coccidia may be etiologic in patients with undiagnosed and obscure diarrhea and malabsorption. By careful examination of serially sectioned suction biopsies of small-bowel mucosa and of intestinal contents, additional cases are likely to be detected.