Related Experiment Videos
Disseminated acanthamoeba infection in patients with AIDS: case reports and review
J P Sison1, C A Kemper, M Loveless
1Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, California, USA.
Abstract:
Acanthamoeba infection has been described as an opportunistic infection in persons with AIDS. We report two cases of patients with AIDS and acanthamoeba infection and review the manifestations of this protozoan infection in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus. The diagnosis of this infection requires a high index of suspicion because the clinical and histologic manifestations may be confused with those of disseminated fungal or algal disease. Clinicians and laboratory personnel should be aware of this potentially fatal condition so that appropriate diagnostic studies can be performed and treatment can be urgently administered. Early initiation of therapy may alter the clinical outcome of the disease.
Insights
Acanthamoeba infection is an opportunistic threat for individuals with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Early diagnosis and treatment of this protozoan infection in HIV-infected patients are crucial for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) compromises the immune system, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
- Acanthamoeba is a protozoan parasite known to cause infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- This study reports two cases of Acanthamoeba infection in patients diagnosed with AIDS.
- Clinical and histological findings of Acanthamoeba infection can mimic disseminated fungal or algal diseases.
Findings:
- Acanthamoeba infection presents as an opportunistic infection in the context of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
- Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion due to overlapping clinical presentations with other opportunistic infections.
Implications:
- Awareness among clinicians and laboratory personnel is vital for prompt diagnosis and management.
- Early therapeutic intervention for Acanthamoeba infection in AIDS patients may significantly improve clinical outcomes.
- This condition represents a potentially fatal complication in advanced HIV disease.