Amebiasis is a parasitic-based intestinal infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica, transmitted through contaminated food or water and poor personal hygiene. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and cramps. Treatment involves antibiotics, and those traveling to areas with inadequate sanitation should take precautionary measures.
Amebiasis, also known as Entamoeba histolytica infection or amoebiasis, is a parasitic-based intestinal infection associated with unsanitary conditions. Originating from exposure to Entamoeba histolytica (E. histolytica), ingestion is the most common method of transmission of the infection. Treatment usually involves the administration of antibiotics to clear the infection. Individuals traveling to areas where exposure to E. histolytica is likely are encouraged to take precautionary measures, such as consuming only bottled or properly filtered tap water.
A diagnosis of amoebiasis is usually made only in those individuals who have symptoms. It is important to note that not all E. histolytica exposures progress to infection. Laboratory testing of a sample of your own stool is the only way to identify amoebiasis infection. In some cases, blood work may be done if your condition is indicative of the infection spreading beyond the confines of the intestine.
Individuals who travel to places with inadequate sanitation are more likely to come into contact with E. histolytica. Among the known infectious intestinal diseases, amoebiasis occurs when E. histolytica is ingested directly, through contaminated liquids or food, or indirectly, such as when practicing poor personal hygiene. Water resources and food can be contaminated when human waste is improperly disposed of or used as compost. Those who touch objects contaminated with E. histolytica may unknowingly carry the parasite on their hands until they are washed. The infection can also be transmitted between homosexual men who have unprotected sex.
Whereas not everyone exposed to E. histolytica develops amebiasis, not everyone who develops amebiasis has symptoms. If symptoms develop, it can take up to a month before you start showing signs. Individuals who become symptomatic often experience diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and cramps.
Depending on the severity of your diarrhea, dehydration can be a risk. In some cases, a severe amoebiasis infection can become invasive to tissues outside the intestines, namely the liver. Infection lodged in the liver can cause an abscess, which is the localized accumulation of pus. Individuals with an amoebic liver abscess may develop additional symptoms, including profuse sweating, widespread joint discomfort, and jaundice.
Treatment for amoebiasis requires the administration of antibiotics. Often, the severity of the infection determines whether one or more antibiotics are used and the dose. The goal of treatment is to eliminate all traces of infection from one’s system, which requires completion of all antibiotics as directed. If an amoebic liver abscess is found, a catheter may be placed to help clear the pus and relieve pressure.
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