Amebic infection in humans.

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Amebiasis remains a significant global health concern, with Entamoeba histolytica causing millions of infections and substantial annual deaths.
• Distinguishing invasive Entamoeba histolytica from non-invasive Entamoeba dispar requires specialized diagnostics.
• Amebic liver abscess, a severe manifestation, complicates 1% of infections, posing a potentially fatal threat.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar infections.
• To elucidate parasite and host factors influencing disease manifestation and severity.
• To update on modern diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for amebiasis, particularly amebic liver abscess.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of amebiasis, focusing on parasite biology, host-pathogen interactions, and clinical management.
• Analysis of the role of modern imaging and image-guided therapies in diagnosing and managing amebic liver abscess.
• Synthesis of current scientific developments and clinical practice guidelines.

Main Results:

• Invasive amebiasis, especially amebic liver abscess, requires accurate diagnosis using molecular or enzymatic methods.
• Modern imaging techniques and image-guided therapies are increasingly vital for managing amebic liver abscess.
• Despite challenges, in-hospital mortality for amebic liver abscess appears to be decreasing.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis and management of amebiasis, particularly invasive forms, are crucial despite declining awareness.
• Advances in imaging and interventional therapies are improving outcomes for amebic liver abscess.
• Continued research and updated clinical practices are essential to combat the global burden of amebiasis.