Microsporidia have been primarily implicated in human disease in which type of patients?

Microsporidia are a group of spore-forming unicellular parasites that are known to cause opportunistic infections primarily in immunocompromised individuals. This association is primarily due to the weakened immune system found in these patients, which makes it difficult for their bodies to fight off infections that would typically be overcome by a healthy immune response.

In healthy individuals, microsporidial infections are uncommon and usually asymptomatic. However, in those whose immune systems are compromised—such as individuals with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those undergoing chemotherapy—the risk of microsporidial infections increases significantly. These infections can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, respiratory issues, and other systemic effects, making them clinically significant in this specific population.

While pediatric patients under 5 years, adults with congenital immunodeficiencies, and travelers to tropical regions may also face certain health concerns, microsporidia are specifically noted for their prevalence and significant impact in individuals with compromised immune systems. This underscores the importance of recognizing at-risk populations for effective prevention and treatment strategies in dealing with infections caused by microsporidia.