Lophomonas sp. infection in a patient with chronic rhinitis

Abstract

Lophomonas sp. is a multiflagellated protozoan commonly found in the intestines of cockroaches and is increasingly being recognized as a potential respiratory pathogen. We report an unusual case of a 25-year-old male patient from the Eastern Part of India with chronic rhinitis unresponsive to conventional therapy, in whom Lophomonas sp. was identified in nasal secretions. The patient lived in poor hygienic conditions with a significant cockroach infestation. Microscopic examination of nasal discharge revealed motile, multiflagellated protozoa resembling Lophomonas blattarum. This case highlights the importance of considering rare parasitic infections in individuals with chronic upper respiratory symptoms, particularly those with known environmental exposures.