Amoebiasis : Causes and Treatment

Amoebiasis, also known as amoebic dysentery, is an infection that affects the intestines. It is caused by a parasite called E. histolytica.

These parasites, known as entamoeba, can infect both humans and some animals. However, out of the six different entamoeba species that can infect the human intestine, only E. histolytica can cause disease.
Amoebae are single-celled organisms that can be found in moist environments like dirt, water, and other places. They have flowing extensions of their bodies called pseudopodia, which they use to move and feed.
Amoebae belongs to a group of germs called protozoa, which are microscopic, single-celled organisms.
E. histolytica resides in the intestines of infected individuals and can be passed out through their stools.
These parasites can survive for weeks or even months in soil, fertilizers, or water that has been contaminated with infected faeces.
If someone consumes contaminated food or drinks contaminated water, they can become sick and spread the disease to others.
In certain individuals, E. histolytica can enter the bloodstream from the gut and travel to other organs such as the liver, lungs, and possibly others.

What are the Symptoms of Amoebiasis Disease?

The majority of people who have this parasite will not exhibit any symptoms. Those who do get ill might have minor or major signs. The mild kind of amoebiasis includes:

Nausea,
Diarrhea,
Unexpected Weight loss,,
Stomach tenderness,
Occasional fever

Sometimes, the parasite will spread from the intestines, resulting in a more severe infection, such as a liver abscess. After exposure, symptoms may appear from a few days to a few months, but often between two to four weeks.

When To See Doctor?

Consult the doctor immediately if anyone in your family has symptoms of amoebiasis, such as:

Diarrhea with blood or mucus,
Diarrhea that lasts longer than two weeks,
Abdominal pain,
fever,
Pain or tenderness below the ribs on the right side

Tell your doctor if you visited a part of the world where amoebiasis is common. Also, suppose your kid has diarrhoea and dehydration symptoms, including dry or sticky lips, less frequent urination, no tears while crying, dizziness, or sleepiness. In that case, you should get in touch with your doctor immediately.

Causes of Amoebiasis Disease

Amoebiasis causes of a single-celled protozoan called E. histolytica often enters a person’s system when they ingest cysts via food or water. It can also enter the body by coming in touch with faeces directly.

Consuming food or water contaminated with E. histolytica cysts.
Direct contact with infected feces.
Poor hygiene and sanitation practices.
Raw or undercooked meats and unwashed produce.
Close contact with infected individuals.
High-risk behaviors such as oral-anal contact.

Risk Factors of Amoebiasis

The risk factors usually include:

Traveling to or living in an area with a high incidence of amoebiasis, such as developing countries.
Poor sanitation
Lack of clean drinking water.
Eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Close contact with an infected person.
Lack of personal hygiene.
Poor handwashing practices.
Having a weakened immune system.
Having a chronic disease such as diabetes or HIV.
Using antibiotics which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, particularly pork.
Consuming raw fruits and vegetables that have been washed in contaminated water.
Consuming unbottled or tap water in high-risk areas
Working or living in crowded conditions.
Eating unhygienic street foods
Having a history of diarrhea or other intestinal infections
Consuming raw shellfish or other seafood
Consuming fermented or pickled foods
Working as a food handler or in a food-processing facility
Using recreational drugs that are taken orally
Having a history of poor nutrition

Complications of Amoebic Dysentery

Amoebic liver abscesses are the most common complications of amoebiasis, which is non-intestinal. These may result in symptoms like-

Liver Abscesses:

Fever
Pain in the right uppermost part of the abdomen
Jaundice.

Amoebiasis can, in rare circumstances, impact the respiratory system, leading to a collapsed lung. Empyema or a hepato-bronchial fistula can develop due to ruptured amoebic liver abscesses. Their typical symptoms include:

Respiratory Issues:

Coughing
Fever
Difficulty breathing

Although possible, amoebiasis can induce cardiac issues, which is often rare. Amoebiasis can, in very rare cases, lead to amoebic brain abscesses. These can cause the following symptoms:

Rare Complications:

Headache
Vomiting
Changes in mental status

Prevention of Amoebic Dysentery

Prevention of amoebiasis by practising good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing food and after using the restroom. If you’re visiting places where the infection is common, prepare and eat your food according to the following schedule:

Fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating.
Use sealed bottles for soft drinks and bottled water.
To drink tap water, boil it for at least one minute before drinking.
Avoid using ice cubes or fountain drinks.
Avoid drinking unpasteurized milk, cheese, or other dairy products.
Avoid unhygienic food sold by street vendors.

Diagnosis of Amoebiasis

To confirm diagnosis of amoebiasis, your doctor may:

Conduct stool tests to detect E. histolytica cysts or antigens.
Perform blood tests to check for organ involvement.
Use imaging ultrasound or CT scan to look for liver abscesses.
Recommend colonoscopy for intestinal examination.

Treatment for Amoebic Dysentery

The treatment generally consists of the following:

If you experience symptoms, you should take a 10-day course of the antiamoebic medication metronidazole in tablet form.
If you need it, your doctor might recommend a nausea-controlling medication.
Antibiotics may be used to treat you if you don’t display any symptoms.
The treatment must target the parasite and infected organs.
If the peritoneal tissues or colon have perforations, surgery might be required.

Amoebiasis treatment focuses on eliminating the parasite and managing symptoms:

Medications

Metronidazole: 750–800 mg thrice daily for 5–10 days.
Tinidazole: 2 g daily for 3–5 days.
Paromomycin: 25–35 mg/kg daily in three doses for 7 days.
Diloxanide Furoate: 500 mg thrice a daily for 10 days.
Severe cases may require surgery for complications like perforations.
Follow your doctor’s instructions for all prescribed treatments.

Do’s And Don’ts of Amoebiasis Disease?

Amoebiasis can also affect other organs, resulting in life-threatening consequences, including liver abscesses. To avoid problems and the spread of the illness, prompt identification, and treatment are essential. The following are many dos and don’ts that one might adhere to to prevent the harmful effects of amoebiasis.

Do’s	Don’ts
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet.	Consume food or water that may be contaminated with faecal matter.
Cook food thoroughly and consume it while it is still hot.	Consume raw or undercooked meats.
Wash fruits and vegetables properly before eating them.	Share personal items such as towels or toothbrushes with others.
Seek medical help if you have symptoms of amoebiasis.	Self-medicate with over-the-counter medications or antibiotics.
Take all prescribed medications as directed by the doctor.	Have sexual contact with someone with amoebiasis.

Care at ONUS Hospitals

At ONUS Hospitals, we work with the greatest, most well-renowned General physicians & medical staff members to provide our patients with the best possible treatment while being compassionate and caring. With the active participation of healthcare professionals from several departments, each with their area of speciality, we treat amoebiasis holistically to provide complete care, improve recovery, and promote overall health. Our world-class medical professionals accurately identify the condition and provide therapeutic interventions.

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