What do newer findings suggest about the pathogenicity of Blastocystis hominis?

Newer findings regarding the pathogenicity of Blastocystis hominis highlight the complexity and variability of this organism. Research has shown that Blastocystis comprises numerous strains and species, which can exhibit different effects on human health. Some strains have been associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and can be considered pathogenic, while others appear to exist without causing disease and may be nonpathogenic. This variation suggests that the pathogenic potential of Blastocystis hominis is not uniform across all strains, making it crucial to consider the specific strain when assessing the risk of infection. This nuanced understanding contrasts with older views that often regarded all instances of Blastocystis as benign or uniformly pathogenic.