$Unique_ID{BRK00122}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites}
$Title{Do Amoeba Really Cause Disease?}
$Subject{amoeba travel tropical dysentery}
$Volume{A-12}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Do Amoeba Really Cause Disease?


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QUESTION:  I am aware that bacteria and other types of germs cause serious
infections in humans.  However my daughter reports that her teacher said those
little amoeba she looks at under the microscope can also infect people.  Do
amoeba really cause disease?

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ANSWER:  Your daughter's school teacher is absolutely correct, amoeba can
indeed cause infection and disease.
     Amebiasis is the name of the disease caused by amoeba.  It comes from a
one-celled parasite Entamoeba histolytica, and often be without symptoms, but
usually proves symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to dysentery.  It is found
throughout the world but traditionally and most frequently in countries or
areas that have poor sanitation.
     It is found so frequently in the tropics that amebiasis has come to be
considered a tropical disease.  But such is not the case as it can occur
wherever water supplies are contaminated.
     In certain places, plumbing problems can contaminate water that otherwise
would be pure.  That situation most often happens in seasonal establishments
such as parks, lodges, or resorts.
     Anyone traveling to developing countries must take safety measures to
guard against amebiasis.  Among them are drinking only boiled or bottled
water, never brushing your teeth with water from the tap, avoiding ice cubes
that could have been made with unsafe water, and eating only thoroughly cooked
food.
     The good news is that medications (such as metronidazole, iodoquinol or
diloxabide furoate) exist to successfully treat this intenstinal disease.
     Amebiasis can be caused by certain sexual practices as well as colonic
irrigations.  Also, it can be spread easily by dirty hands.  Everyone,
particularly food handlers, should wash their hands carefully after defecating
to avoid spreading disease.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
