Amoebiasis
May 09, 2023, 16:45 IST
Bacteria are the most abundant microorganisms on Earth that are found in water bodies, soil, and atmosphere and can survive in unfavourable conditions including extremely high temperatures, salinity, and pH. Many of the bacterial species are parasitic and infect humans and other animals causing severe diseases and symptoms. In this article, we will discuss one such Bacterial infection called Amoebiasis which is caused by Entamoeba histolytica. This bacteria can gain entry into the body through infested water and food. Let us discuss the disease, its causes, symptoms, and treatment in detail.
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Definition
The term Amoebiasis is used to define a common bacterial infection of the colon caused by Entamoeba histolytica that gains entry into the body through consumption of infected food items or drinking infected water. The bacteria is discharged in the stool of an infected individual which contaminates water bodies. Flies may also transfer the bacteria to exposed food items that have not been appropriately covered. The disease affects more than 35 million people throughout the world and has an annual death rate of 40,000-100,000 people per year.
Causes
The predominant cause of Amoebiasis is infection with the bacteria Entamoeba histolytica. This bacteria exists freely in the soil and moist surfaces but requires a host like a human to complete its life cycle. Once the bacteria is inside the body, it colonizes the digestive tract particularly the colon of the large intestine. In the open environment, these bacteria exist as inactive cysts but once they gain entry into the host, they become active trophozoites. These trophozoites use their hook like a mouth to attach to the digestive tract and utilize the digested food from the host to grow and reproduce. Cysts are again discharged through the stool of an infected individual which can contaminate fresh water, and food and the cycle continues.
Symptoms
Under normal circumstances, Amoebiasis does not cause major illness and the affected individuals are asymptomatic. About 10-15% of the individuals infected with Entamoeba histolytic may develop the following symptoms-
- Diarrhoea,
- Loose motions,
- Severe pain and swelling in the digestive lining leading to colitis,
- Discharge of blood in the stool,
- Amoebic dysentery.
If left untreated, the bacteria may cross the intestinal barrier and gain entry into the blood causing severe infections. They may gain entry into vital organs like the lungs and heart leading to a much more severe case of Amoebiasis. This condition results in high fever, and organ failure and can cause the death of the individual.
Diagnosis
The causative agent Entamoeba histolytica is microscopic and cannot be detected with the eyes. Microscopic analysis along with blood and stool tests are needed to confirm a positive infection. The presence of cysts in the stool and blood sample is a positive indicator that the person is suffering from Amoebiasis. An endoscopy of the digestive tract showing inflammation in the tissue lining of the intestine can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
All bacterial infections can be treated with the help of antibiotics. Metronidazole is most commonly used to provide relief from inflammation and kill the bacteria but Ornidazole and Nitazoxanide can also be used. Due to frequent dysentery and diarrhoea, the patients often lose body fluids and may require saline infusion to prevent dehydration. Preventing infection should be the priority which can be aided with early diagnosis and treatment. Broad-range antibiotics may be needed if the infection spreads to other parts of the body.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the causative agent of Amoebiasis?
Ans. Amoebiasis is caused by the bacteria Entamoeba histolytica which affects the digestive tract by attaching to the colon and causing swelling and infection.
Q2. Which treatment is commonly used for Amoebiasis?
Ans. Antibiotics like Metronidazole are primarily used to kill the bacteria and remove the swelling but secondary treatments like Intravenous saline infusion may also be needed to prevent dehydration.
Q3. What is the period of infection for Amoebiasis?
Ans. The symptoms gradually reduce and completely disappear within 2-3 weeks of infection with the bacteria but if they persist for a longer duration, it may indicate a more severe condition where the infection spreads into the blood.
Q4. How to prevent getting infected by this bacteria?
Ans. The inactive cysts are usually found in soil and moist surfaces and washing hands after contact will prevent the bacteria from entering the mouth. Food and water should be kept covered and tap water should always be boiled before drinking.
