Amoebiasis: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Sateesh Pydi , General Medicine

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Amoebiasis, also known as amoebic dysentery, is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite E. histolytica. It mainly spreads through contaminated food and water.

The parasite can live in the intestines and, in some cases, spread to other organs like the liver, lungs, or bloodstream, causing serious complications.

These parasites, known as entamoeba, can infect both humans and some animals. However, out of the six different entamoeba species that can infect the human intestine, only E. histolytica can cause disease.
Amoebae are single-celled organisms that can be found in moist environments like dirt, water, and other places. They have flowing extensions of their bodies called pseudopodia, which they use to move and feed.
Amoebae belongs to a group of germs called protozoa, which are microscopic, single-celled organisms.
E. histolytica resides in the intestines of infected individuals and can be passed out through their stools.
These parasites can survive for weeks or even months in soil, fertilizers, or water that has been contaminated with infected faeces.
If someone consumes contaminated food or drinks contaminated water, they can become sick and spread the disease to others.
In certain individuals, E. histolytica can enter the bloodstream from the gut and travel to other organs such as the liver, lungs, and possibly others.

What Are The Different Types Of Amoebiasis?

Amoebiasis can present in different forms depending on the severity and spread of the infection. It may remain limited to the intestines or affect other organs.

The classification helps in determining the severity and guiding appropriate treatment.

Intestinal amoebiasis affecting the colon and causing diarrhea
Extraintestinal amoebiasis involving organs like the liver and lungs
Amoebic liver abscess as a common severe complication

What Are the Symptoms of Amoebiasis Disease?

The majority of people who have this parasite will not exhibit any symptoms. Those who do get ill might have minor or major signs. The mild kind of amoebiasis includes:

Nausea,
Diarrhea,
Unexpected Weight loss,
Stomach tenderness,
Occasional fever

Sometimes, the parasite will spread from the intestines, resulting in a more severe infection, such as a liver abscess. After exposure, symptoms may appear from a few days to a few months, but often between two to four weeks.

What Are The Common Causes of Amoebiasis?

Amoebiasis occurs when a person ingests cysts of E. histolytica through contaminated food, water, or direct contact. Poor hygiene plays a major role in transmission.

The infection spreads easily in areas with inadequate sanitation and unsafe food handling practices.

Consuming food or water contaminated with E. histolytica cysts.
Direct contact with infected feces.
Poor hygiene and sanitation practices.
Raw or undercooked meats and unwashed produce.
Close contact with infected individuals.
High-risk behaviors such as oral-anal contact.

When Should You See A Doctor For Amoebiasis?

You should consult a doctor if symptoms of amoebiasis persist or worsen. Early medical care helps prevent complications and spread of infection.

Prompt consultation is especially important in children, elderly individuals, or those with weakened immunity.

Diarrhea with blood or mucus
Diarrhea lasting more than two weeks
Abdominal pain
Fever and persistent weakness
Pain below the right ribs indicating possible liver involvement
Symptoms of dehydration such as dizziness or reduced urination
Consult specialists such as Gastroenterology Medical, Internal Medicine, or Pediatrics

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How Is Amoebiasis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of amoebiasis involves identifying the parasite or its effects on the body. Doctors use laboratory tests and imaging to confirm the condition.

Early diagnosis is important to prevent complications and start timely treatment.

To confirm diagnosis of amoebiasis, your doctor may:

Conduct stool tests to detect E. histolytica cysts or antigens.
Perform blood tests to check for organ involvement.
Use imaging ultrasound or CT scan to look for liver abscesses.
Recommend colonoscopy for intestinal examination.

What Are The Treatment Options For Amoebiasis?

Treatment of amoebiasis focuses on eliminating the parasite and relieving symptoms. The approach depends on the severity and spread of infection.

Medications are the primary treatment, while severe cases may require additional interventions.

If you experience symptoms, you should take a 10-day course of the antiamoebic medication metronidazole in tablet form.
If you need it, your doctor might recommend a nausea-controlling medication.
Antibiotics may be used to treat you if you don't display any symptoms.
The treatment must target the parasite and infected organs.
If the peritoneal tissues or colon have perforations, surgery might be required.

Amoebiasis treatment focuses on eliminating the parasite and managing symptoms:

Medications

Metronidazole: 750-800 mg thrice daily for 5-10 days.
Tinidazole: 2 g daily for 3-5 days.
Paromomycin: 25-35 mg/kg daily in three doses for 7 days.
Diloxanide Furoate: 500 mg thrice a daily for 10 days.
Severe cases may require surgery for complications like perforations.
Follow your doctor's instructions for all prescribed treatments.

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What Are The Complications Of Amoebiasis?

Amoebiasis can lead to serious complications if left untreated. These may affect multiple organs beyond the intestines.

Severe cases require immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening outcomes.

Liver Abscesses:

Fever
Pain in the right uppermost part of the abdomen
Jaundice.

Amoebiasis can, in rare circumstances, impact the respiratory system, leading to a collapsed lung. Empyema or a hepato-bronchial fistula can develop due to ruptured amoebic liver abscesses. Their typical symptoms include:

Respiratory Issues:

Coughing
Fever
Difficulty breathing

Although possible, amoebiasis can induce cardiac issues, which is often rare. Amoebiasis can, in very rare cases, lead to amoebic brain abscesses. These can cause the following symptoms:

Rare Complications:

Headache
Vomiting
Changes in mental status

How Can Amoebiasis Be Prevented?

Prevention of amoebiasis by practising good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing food and after using the restroom. If you're visiting places where the infection is common, prepare and eat your food according to the following schedule:

Fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating.
Use sealed bottles for soft drinks and bottled water.
To drink tap water, boil it for at least one minute before drinking.
Avoid using ice cubes or fountain drinks.
Avoid drinking unpasteurized milk, cheese, or other dairy products.
Avoid unhygienic food sold by street vendors.

What Is The Recovery Process Like For Amoebiasis?

Recovery from amoebiasis depends on timely diagnosis and proper treatment. Most individuals recover completely with appropriate medication.

Follow-up care and hygiene practices are essential to prevent recurrence and complications.

Completion of full medication course
Gradual improvement in digestive symptoms
Regular follow-up if complications occur
Maintaining hygiene to prevent reinfection

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is amoebiasis?

Amoebiasis, also known as amoebic dysentery, is an infectious disease caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. It primarily affects the intestines but can also spread to other organs like the liver.

2. How is amoebiasis transmitted?

Amoebiasis is typically transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the cysts of the Entamoeba histolytica parasite. Additionally, it can spread by coming into contact with faeces directly.

3. What are the symptoms of amoebiasis?

Diarrhea, stomach pains, bloody stools, exhaustion, weight loss, and fever are just a few of the symptoms that can vary in severity from minor to severe. The infection may, in extreme circumstances, result in liver abscesses.

4. How is amoebiasis diagnosed?

Diagnosis often involves analyzing stool samples for the presence of the parasite or its cysts. In some cases, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans may be used to detect complications like liver abscesses.

5. Is amoebiasis a common disease?

Amoebiasis is common in areas with poor sanitation and contaminated water supplies. Travellers to such regions are also at risk. Not every parasite patient experiences symptoms, though.