Incidence of Cryptosporidium: A Neglected Parasite in Immunocompetent Adults in Swabi

Objective: To highlight the increasing incidence of Cryptosporidium in immunocompetent adults and the resultant altered epidemiology. Methodology: This study was conducted over a period of one year, from 1st January 2023 to 1st of January, 2024 at Microbiology Laboratory MTI- GKMC/BKMC, Swabi. Modified Ziehl Neelsen staining was performed on the received stool samples from patients presenting with wide range of symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Abdominal pain, recurrent episodes of diarrhea and weight loss were the main symptoms. Modified ZN stain being one of the most reliable, quick and cost effective methods for the detection of cysts of Cryptosporidium using 40X and oil immersion lens was used for diagnosis. Results: A total of 62 samples were received from immunocompetent patients in the said period out of which 34% were positive for the oocysts of Cryptosporidium species. Out of a total of 21 positive samples 62% were males and 38% were females. The age range of the patients spanned between 20 to 60 years. Conclusion: Knowing this high incidence 34% of Cryptosporidium spp. in the healthy adults, necessitates to prioritize steps for the prevention of this infection by implementation of public health measures.