Clinical approach to diarrheal disorders in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

Blastocystis sp.-An emerging cause of diarrhea post stem cell transplantation

Key Clinical Message

Protozoans are endemic in the Middle East and diarrhea workup post stem cell transplant should always include stool examination for ova and parasites.

Abstract

We present a case of Blastocystis sp. infection in a multiple myeloma patient who developed diarrhea on day five of post-autologous stem cell transplantation. Diarrhea is a major complication and a potential cause of mortality in this population. Testing for endemic protozoan is recommended.

Infectious Gastroenteritis in Transplant Patients

Infectious gastroenteritis is common after transplantation and can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. A wide range of organisms can lead to gastroenteritis in this patient population. Clostridioides difficile, cytomegalovirus, and norovirus are the most common pathogens. Newer diagnostic methods, especially multiplex polymerase chain reaction, have increased the diagnostic yield of infectious etiologies. In this review, we describe the epidemiology and risk factors for common infectious pathogens leading to gastroenteritis.