Doctor's Notes on Cyclospora Infection (Cyclosporiasis)
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a single cell microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, an infection of human intestinal tract cells. It mainly occurs in semitropical and tropical regions. Signs and symptoms of a Cyclospora infection include
- watery diarrhea (sometimes termed explosive diarrhea),
- gas production,
- bloating,
- cramping,
- abdominal discomfort and/or pain,
- nausea,
- loss of appetite and weight,
- fatigue, and
- flu-like symptoms.
Some individuals develop low fevers and vomiting. If not treated, the symptoms and signs may last for weeks to months.
C. cayetanensis is the cause of cyclosporiasis. The parasite has a complicated life cycle that needs to develop (oocysts) in human intestinal cells; after development, the non-sporulated oocysts are shed in human feces into the environment where they mature (sporulate) and contaminate food and water sources where they can start their life cycle again by infecting humans.
What Is the Treatment for Cyclospora Infections?
People with a healthy immune system may recover without treatments. It may last a few days to a month (or more) as the disease may relapse. However, Cyclospora treatment is simple. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is the most used and effective antibiotic to treat this infection. No alternative antibiotics or antiparasitic drugs are as effective.
Stomach Pain : Nausea & Other Causes Quiz

Bowel regularity means a bowel movement every day.
See AnswerMust Read Articles:
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Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, parasites, intestinal diseases or conditions, reactions to medications, and food intolerance or allergies. Symptoms of diarrhea include watery stools, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration. Most cases of diarrhea can be treated at home. In some cases (in the elderly, small children, or those with severe or chronic medical conditions) may need to be hospitalized due to dehydration. -
Vomiting and Nausea
Vomiting and nausea are common complaints that accompany many conditions and diseases. A few common causes of vomiting and nausea include food poisoning, viruses, vertigo, head injuries, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, migraine, brain tumors, and infections. Treatment of vomiting and nausea depend on the cause of the symptoms.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.