Modification of the clinical course of intestinal microsporidiosis in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients by immune status and anti-human immunodeficiency virus therapy

The clinical course of 37 Enterocytozoon bieneusi-infected acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients with diarrhea was studied. Parasite clearance was seen in 15 patients (40.5%). Clearance of E. bieneusi resulted in a 25-100% reduction in episodes of diarrhea, suggesting that microsporidia are true pathogens. Univariate and multivariate proportional hazards analyses revealed that peripheral blood CD4 cell counts greater than or equal to 100/mm(3), the use of two or more antiretroviral medications, and use of a protease inhibitor were statistically associated with decreased time to clearance of E. bieneusi. Specific anti-microsporidial therapy (albendazole) was not associated with parasite eradication. Factors related to immunocompetence and human immunodeficiency virus suppression appeared to be important in the clearance of E. bieneusi.