Amebiasis is a parasitic infection affecting the intestines. This condition is caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica. The indications of amebiasis include abdominal cramping, loose stool and stomach pain. In some cases, an individual with the infection will not experience any significant symptoms.
Potential risk factors
Amebiasis is quite prevalent in tropical countries with poor or underdeveloped sanitation. The risk factors for the condition include the following:
- Individuals who have visited tropical areas with poor hygiene
- Individuals who have compromised immune systems and other health issues
- Those who live in institutions with poor sanitary conditions
- Migrants from tropical countries with poor hygienic practices
What are the causes of amebiasis?
E. histolytica is a protozoan that typically enters the body if an individual ingests the cysts via water or food. They can also enter the body via direct contact with fecal matter. These cysts are a relatively inactive form of the parasite that can thrive for several months in the soil or environment where they were deposited in feces.
Once the cysts enter the body, they lodge into the digestive tract where they release an invasive form of the parasite which is called trophozite. These parasites multiply in the digestive tract and travel to the large intestines. It is there where they burrow into the intestinal wall or the colon. This results to colitis, blood-streaked diarrhea and tissue damage. An infected individual can spread the disease by releasing the new cysts into the environment via the infected feces.
What are the indications?
Once the symptoms manifest, they appear 1-4 weeks after the ingestion of the cysts. The symptoms at this phase are usually mild and include loose stools and stomach cramps.
In case the parasite occupies the lining of the intestines, it can lead to amebic dysentery. This is a hazardous form of the disease characterized by frequent episodes of blood-streaked and watery stools and intense stomach cramps.
If the parasite enters the bloodstream, it can end up in the heart, liver, lungs, brain or other organs where it causes tissue damage and abscesses. Take note that the liver is the usual site for the parasite. The indications of amebic liver disease include tenderness in the upper-right region of the torso and fever.
Treatment
The treatment for minor cases of amebiasis involves a 10-day course of metronidazole given orally. The doctor might also prescribe medications to control nausea if needed.
In case the parasite exists in the intestinal tissues, the management is aimed not only on the organism but also any injury to the diseased organs. Surgery might be needed if the peritoneal tissues or colon have perforations.