Dysentery Caused by Balantidium coli in China

Korean J Parasitol. 2020 Feb;58(1):47-49. doi: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.1.47. Epub 2020 Feb 29.

Abstract

Balantidium coli human infection predominantly occurs in tropical and subtropical regions in the world. Human case is extremely rare in China. This report details a case of B. coli infection in a 68-year-old man in China, who presented with history of abdominal pain, tenesmus, diarrhea with blood and was diagnosed as B. coli-caused dysentery. Our case indicates possible occurrence of Balantidium coli-related disease in cooler climates. This case is presented not only because of its rarity but also for future references.

Keywords: Balantidium coli; China; dysentery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Balantidiasis / complications*
  • Balantidiasis / parasitology*
  • Balantidium*
  • China
  • Climate
  • Dysentery / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male