Enterocytozoon bieneusi Infection after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in Child, Argentina

Abstract

We report a case of Enterocytozoon bieneusi infection in a pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipient in Argentina. Spores were visualized in feces using Calcofluor White and modified trichrome stainings. PCR and sequencing identified E. bieneusi genotype D in fecal samples and liver samples, confirming extraintestinal dissemination of the parasite.

Keywords: Argentina; Enterocytozoon bieneusi; Enterocytozoon bieneusi-genotype D; hematopoietic stem cell transplant; microsporidia; parasites; pediatric.

Figure

Enterocytozoon bieneusi detection in fecal sample and liver aspiration biopsy sample from a child with hematopoietic stem cell transplant, Argentina. A) Light microscopy of fecal samples after Weber’s modified trichome staining showing ovoid shaped-spores with a pinkish-red stained wall (arrows). Original magnification × 1,000; scale bars = 5 µm. B) Closer view of boxed area in panel A, showing spores (arrows). C) Agarose gel electrophoresis (2%) showing amplification products (≈390 pb) from nested PCR with inner primers EBITS1 and EBITS2 from patient fecal sample. Lane L, molecular weight ladder; lane 1, negative control (water); lanes 2 and 3, fecal samples from healthy donors; lane 4, positive feces control for E. bieneusi; lanes 5 and 6, fecal samples from patient. D) Nested PCR products from liver aspiration biopsy sample. Lane L, molecular weight ladder; lane 1, fecal sample from healthy donor; lane 2, fecal sample from patient; lane 3, liver aspiration biopsy sample from patient.