comparison of three different methods for the diagnosis of Blastocystis hominis

A total of 950 fresh faecal specimens from outpatients attending Central Lab in Sebha, Libya were examined for Blastocystis hominis using direct smear microscopy, concentration, and short - term in-vitro culture method [Boeck and Drobohlav medium]. Culture method was found to be more sensitive [42.31%] than the direct smear microscopy [26.21%], and faecal concentration [34.10%]. In-vitro cultivation can be used as routine diagnostic method for the detection of Blastocytosis hominis in stool specimens, especially when dealing with patients with gastrointestinal symptoms