Amoebiasis

Context:

A team of researchers from the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has developed new drug molecules against the protozoa that cause amoebiasis.

About:

• Amoebiasis or amoebic dysentery is a common parasitic enteral infection. It is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
• Amoebiasis is present all over the world. Each year, about 40000 to 110000 people die from amoebiasis infection.
• Amoebiasis may present with no symptoms or mild to severe symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea, or bloody diarrhea.
• Severe complications may include inflammation and perforation resulting in peritonitis. People affected may develop anemia.
• Types
  • Acute amoebiasis can present as diarrhea or dysentery with frequent, small, and often bloody stools.
  • Chronic amoebiasis can present with gastrointestinal symptoms plus fatigue, weight loss, and occasional fever.
  • Extraintestinal amoebiasis can occur if the parasite spreads to other organs, most commonly the liver where it causes an amoebic liver abscess.
  • Amoebic liver abscess presents with fever and right upper quadrant abdominal pain.

What is Entamoeba histolytica?

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Entamoeba histolytica is the third- leading cause of morbidity and mortality due to parasitic disease in humans.
• E. histolytic is classified as a category B biodefense organism because of its environmental stability, ease of dissemination, resistance to chlorine, and it is easily spread through contaminated products.
• Besides the GI tract, E. histolytica can affect many organ systems.