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Discovery of New Intracellular Pathogens by Amoebal Coculture and Amoebal Enrichment Approaches
09:04

Discovery of New Intracellular Pathogens by Amoebal Coculture and Amoebal Enrichment Approaches

Published on: October 27, 2013

The history of the discovery of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis

Robert Cooter

    Australian Family Physician
    |June 5, 2002
    PubMed
    Abstract

    Insights

    Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, caused by Naegleria fowleri, was transmitted through heated tap water in South Australia. This discovery corrected misinformation and identified a public health hazard.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Microbiology
    • Neurology
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) was first identified in South Australia.
    • The pathogen, Naegleria fowleri, was known to enter the central nervous system via the nasal cavity.
    • The transmission route of Naegleria fowleri remained undetermined.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To detail the discovery of PAM pathogenesis.
    • To rectify inaccuracies regarding the discovery process and involved individuals.
    • To investigate the role of pipeline water in Naegleria fowleri transmission.

    Main Methods:

    • Investigated domestic water pipelines for Naegleria fowleri presence.
    • Correlated patient histories of nasal cavity flushing with tap water use.
    • Monitored water temperatures in pipelines during summer months.
    • Recovered Naegleria fowleri from domestic tap water supplies.

    Main Results:

    • Sunlight heated domestic water pipelines to 35-45°C in summer, promoting amoebae growth.
    • Patients reported using tap water for nasal cavity irrigation.
    • Naegleria fowleri was successfully isolated from domestic tap water.

    Conclusions:

    • The study elucidated the transmission route of Naegleria fowleri through heated tap water.
    • This finding identified a significant public health hazard in South Australia.
    • Collaboration between clinicians and scientists was crucial for understanding PAM pathogenesis.

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