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Amoebiasis

Introduction:

Amoebiasis (also spelled Amebiasis) is a parasitic infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica, primarily affecting the intestines. It is a significant public health issue in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.


Causes and Transmission:

  • Causative Agent:

    1. Entamoeba histolytica, a single-celled protozoan parasite.

  • Mode of Transmission:

    1. Ingestion of cysts: Through contaminated food or water.

    2. Fecal-oral route: Poor hygiene practices.

    3. Person-to-person contact: Less common but possible, especially in sexual transmission.


Life Cycle of Entamoeba histolytica:

  1. Cyst ingestion → travels to the small intestine.

  2. Excystation (release of trophozoites) occurs in the large intestine.

  3. Trophozoites multiply, invading the intestinal wall, causing symptoms.

  4. Encystation → formation of cysts, excreted in feces, completing the cycle.


Types of Amoebiasis:

  1. Intestinal Amoebiasis:

    • Affects the intestines, leading to dysentery (bloody diarrhea).

  2. Extra-intestinal Amoebiasis:

    • Parasite spreads to other organs, commonly the liver (causing liver abscess).


Symptoms:

Intestinal Amoebiasis:

  • Abdominal pain

  • Diarrhea (can be bloody or mucus-filled)

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Weight loss

Extra-intestinal Amoebiasis:

  • Liver abscess:

    • Fever

    • Right upper abdominal pain

    • Jaundice (rare)


Diagnosis:

  1. Stool Examination:

    • Detection of trophozoites or cysts in feces.

  2. Serological Tests:

    • Blood tests to detect antibodies.

  3. Imaging:

    • Ultrasound or CT scan to detect liver abscesses.


Treatment:

  • Medications:

    • Metronidazole or Tinidazole: Treats the active infection.

    • Paromomycin or Iodoquinol: Eliminates cysts in asymptomatic carriers.

  • For liver abscess:

    • Drainage may be necessary in some cases.


Prevention:

  1. Improve sanitation:

    • Proper disposal of human feces.

  2. Safe drinking water:

    • Boil or purify water before drinking.

  3. Good hygiene practices:

    • Wash hands thoroughly, especially after using the toilet or before handling food.

  4. Food safety:

    • Avoid consuming raw or unwashed vegetables.


Risk Factors:

  • Living or traveling in endemic areas (e.g., tropical regions).

  • Poor sanitation and crowded living conditions.

  • Weakened immune system.


Global Impact:

  • Amoebiasis is one of the leading causes of parasitic deaths worldwide.

  • High prevalence in developing countries with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities.


Conclusion:

Amoebiasis is a potentially serious intestinal infection that can lead to severe complications, such as liver abscess, if left untreated. Early diagnosis, proper treatment, and preventive measures, especially improved sanitation and hygiene, are crucial for controlling its spread

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