Journal of Parasitic Diseases: Diagnosis and Therapy

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Perspective - Journal of Parasitic Diseases: Diagnosis and Therapy (2025) Volume 10, Issue 3

Clinical Parasitology: A Re-emerging Frontier in Infectious Disease Diagnosis and Therapy

Maria Silva*

Department of Infectious Diseases, University of São Paulo, Brazil

Corresponding Author:
Maria Silva
Department of Infectious Diseases,
University of São Paulo,
Brazil
E-mail: maria.silva@usp.br

Received: 02-Aug-2025, Manuscript No. AAPDDT-25-166522; Editor assigned: 03-Aug-2025, AAPDDT-25-166522 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-Aug-2025, QC No. AAPDDT-25-166522; Revised: 22-Aug-2025, Manuscript No. AAPDDT-25-166522 (R); Published: 30-Aug-2025, DOI:10.35841/2591-7846.10.3.228

Citation: Silva M. Clinical parasitology: a re-emerging frontier in infectious disease diagnosis and therapy, J Parasit Dis Diagn Ther. 2025;10(3):228

Introduction

Parasitic diseases affect over a billion people worldwide, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income countries. Clinical parasitology—the study of parasites that cause disease in humans and the clinical implications of such infections—has re-emerged as a critical focus within global health due to increased international travel, migration, climate change, and the expansion of vector-borne diseases. This field bridges parasitological research and clinical application, aiming to refine diagnosis, optimize treatment, and support prevention strategies for a broad spectrum of parasitic infections [1, 2, 3, 4].

Clinical parasitology remains an essential and evolving field within infectious disease medicine. Despite advances in diagnostics and therapeutics, parasitic diseases continue to impose a significant global health burden, especially in tropical and developing regions. This perspective article outlines current trends, diagnostic innovations, therapeutic challenges, and the growing importance of clinical parasitology in the modern medical landscape. The integration of molecular tools, epidemiological surveillance, and personalized medicine holds promise for improving parasitic disease outcomes worldwide [5, 6].

Therapeutic Challenges and Emerging Solutions The management of parasitic diseases often depends on a limited range of antiparasitic agents. Drug resistance, particularly in malaria and leishmaniasis, poses a major obstacle. Emerging therapies aim to address this gap through drug repurposing, combination therapies, and the discovery of novel bioactive compounds from natural sources. Personalized medicine and pharmacogenomics are also being explored to improve treatment efficacy and reduce adverse drug reactions. The Role of Clinical Parasitology in Global Health Clinical parasitologists play a vital role not only in hospital settings but also in public health surveillance and outbreak management. The integration of clinical parasitology with epidemiology and environmental monitoring can help predict outbreaks, trace transmission pathways, and implement control measures. The recent rise in zoonotic parasitic infections underscores the importance of a One Health approach, connecting human, animal, and environmental health disciplines. Future Directions Digital Diagnostics and AI Integration: Artificial intelligence and digital microscopy are expected to enhance diagnostic accuracy and speed, especially in remote or underserved areas. Vaccine Development: Although largely underdeveloped for parasitic diseases, vaccines represent a long-term solution, particularly for malaria, toxoplasmosis, and schistosomiasis. Telemedicine and e-Parasitology: Virtual diagnostic platforms can extend clinical parasitology services to geographically isolated populations. Current Landscape in Clinical Diagnosis Traditional diagnostic tools such as microscopy and stool examination continue to serve as frontline approaches, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, these methods often lack sensitivity and specificity. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics, including PCR-based assays, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and next-generation sequencing (NGS), have revolutionized parasite detection. Serological techniques, such as ELISA and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), have further enhanced the ability to diagnose parasitic infections in both endemic and non-endemic regions [7, 8, 9, 10].

Conclusion

Clinical parasitology stands at the intersection of infectious disease control, diagnostics innovation, and therapeutic development. As global patterns of disease transmission evolve, the role of clinical parasitologists becomes increasingly indispensable. Continued investment in research, training, and technology will be crucial to combat the persistent and emerging challenges posed by parasitic diseases.

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