Saint Louis University Baguio City School of Nursing

Content Outline:

Amoebiasis

Definition of amoebiasis Causative agent of amoebiasis Causes and risk factors of amoebiasis Signs and symptoms of amoebiasis Treatment of amoebiasis Prevention of amoebiasis Complications of amoebiasis
References: www.health-disease.com www.wikipedia.com

Prepared by: Aristotel C. Cabais BSN-IV D1

Amoebiasis Definition Amoebiasis (also known as spelt amebiasis) is an infection caused by the parasite entamoeba histolytica. It is usually contracted by ingesting water or food contaminated with amoebic cysts. Amoebiasis is an intestinal infection that may or may not be symptomatic. When symptoms are present it is generally known as invasive amoebiasis. Common causes and risk factors Drinking water contaminated by feces. Eating contaminated food. Anal or directly from person to person contact. Eating Non-Veg foods. Unhygienic conditions and Poor sanitation areas. Eating vegetables and fruits which have been contaminated by the harmful bacteria. Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal cramps. Nausea. Painful passage of stools. Loss of Weight. Severe stomach pain. Loss of Appetite. Profuse diarrhea.

Avoid sharing towels or face washers.

To help prevent infection:

Treatment for Amoebiasis

Metronidazole, or a related drug such a tinidazole, is used to destroy amebae that have invaded tissue. Metronidazole can produce a metallic taste in the mouth and may give rise to nausea. An anti-diarrheal medication may also be prescribed.

Avoid raw vegetables when in endemic areas, as they may have been fertilized using human feces. Boil water or treat with iodine tablets. Avoid eating Street Foods especially in public places where others are sharing sauces in one container.

Complications In the majority of cases, amoebas remain in the gastrointestinal tract of the hosts. Severe ulceration of the gastrointestinal mucosal surfaces occurs in less than 16% of cases. In fewer cases, the parasite invades the soft tissues, most commonly the liver. Only rarely are masses formed (amoebomas) that lead to intestinal obstruction. Other local complications include bloody diarrhea, pericolic and pericaecal abscess.

Prevention To help prevent the spread of amoebiasis around the home:

Fever.

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot running water for at least 10 seconds after using the toilet or changing a baby's diaper, and before handling food. Clean bathrooms and toilets often; pay particular attention to toilet seats and taps.