Journal of Bacteriology & Parasitology

Assessment of Etiology and Treatment of Amebiasis

Fahriye Tatliparmak^* Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
^*Correspondence: Fahriye Tatliparmak, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey, Email:

Received: 21-Jul-2023, Manuscript No. JBP-23-23149; Editor assigned: 24-Jul-2023, Pre QC No. JBP-23-23149 (PQ); Reviewed: 07-Aug-2023, QC No. JBP-23-23149; Revised: 14-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. JBP-23-23149 (R); Published: 21-Aug-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2155-9597.23.S23.066

Description

Amebiasis, also known as amoebic dysentery or amoebiasis, is a common parasitic infection caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica. This disease has a global presence and affects millions of people each year, particularly in regions with inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene practices. Amebiasis can range from mild, asymptomatic infections to severe, lifethreatening cases, making it a significant public health concern.

Etiology of amebiasis

Amebiasis is primarily caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica. This single-celled organism is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food, water, or fecal matter containing the parasite's cysts. Once inside the host's digestive tract, the cysts release trophozoites, which are the active, invasive form of the parasite. These trophozoites can then colonize the large intestine, leading to the development of amebic colitis, or they can penetrate the intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream, causing extraintestinal or invasive amebiasis.

Epidemiology of amebiasis

Amebiasis is a widespread parasitic infection, with the highest prevalence in developing countries with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. It is estimated that over 50 million people worldwide are infected with E. histolytica annually. The transmission of amebiasis is closely linked to poor hygiene practices, overcrowding, and unsanitary living conditions.

Diagnosis of amebiasis

Accurate diagnosis of amebiasis is crucial for appropriate treatment. Diagnostic methods include:

Stool examination: Microscopic examination of stool samples for the presence of E. histolytica cysts or trophozoites.

Serologic tests: Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and indirect Hemagglutination Assay (IHA) can detect antibodies against E. histolytica in the blood.

Imaging: Ultrasonography and Computed Tomography (CT) scans may reveal liver abscesses or other extraintestinal complications.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Molecular methods like PCR can detect E. histolytica DNA in stool samples with high sensitivity and specificity.

Treatment of amebiasis

The choice of treatment for amebiasis depends on the severity of the infection and whether it is intestinal or extraintestinal. Commonly used medications include:

Metronidazole: Effective against intestinal and extraintestinal amebiasis; Metronidazole is the drug of choice for most cases of amebiasis.

Tinidazole: An alternative to metronidazole, particularly for those who cannot tolerate the former.

Paromomycin: Used in combination with metronidazole or tinidazole for the treatment of asymptomatic cyst passers and to prevent relapse.

Surgery: In cases of complications such as a large liver abscess or perforation of the intestinal wall, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Amebiasis is a common parasitic infection with a global presence, affecting millions of individuals each year. The disease's diverse clinical manifestations, ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening complications, make it a significant public health concern. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to manage amebiasis effectively. However, the most effective strategy for controlling the disease lies in prevention, through improved sanitation, hygiene practices, and public education, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of the parasite. By addressing these factors, we can work toward reducing the burden of amebiasis and improving the overall health and well-being of affected populations.