Entamoeba histolytica is an anaerobic parasitic protozoan, part of the genus Entamoeba.Predominantly infecting humans and other primates, E. histolytica is estimated to infect about 50 million people worldwide. Previously, it was thought that 10% of the world population was infected, but these figures predate the recognition that at least 90% of these infections were due to a second species, E. dispar.Mammals such as dogs and cats can become infected transiently, but are not thought to contribute significantly to transmission. E histolytica is capable of causing a spectrum of illnesses (see Presentation). Intestinal conditions resulting from E histolytica infection include the following: Asymptomatic infection Symptomatic noninvasive infection Acute proctocolitis (dysentery) Fulminant colitis with perforation Toxic megacolon Chronic nondysenteric colitis Ameboma Perianal ulceration Extraintestinal conditions resulting from E histolytica infection include the following: Liver abscess Pleuropulmonary disease Peritonitis Pericarditis Brain abscess Genitourinary disease
Posted on: Mon, 02 Sep 2013 08:35:54 +0000
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