Terminology for Blastocystis subtypes – a consensus

Blastocystis is a ubiquitous enteric protistan parasite that has extensive genetic diversity and infects humans and many other animals. Distinct molecular methodologies developed to detect variation and obtain information about transmission patterns and clinical importance have resulted in a confusing array of terminologies for the identification and designation of Blastocystis subtypes. In this article, we propose a standardization of Blastocystis terminology to improve communication and correlate research results. Based primarily on published small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene analyses, we propose that all mammalian and avian isolates should be designated Blastocystis sp. and assigned to one of nine subtypes.