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[Review article: occurrence, parasitism and pathogenetic potency of free-living amoeba]
1Landeshygieneinstitut Halle, Germany.
Abstract:
In areals of human life free living amoebae (FLA) are widely distributed and various possibilities to infect men as well as animals do exist under specific circumstances. While Naegleria species, respectively, Naegleria fowleri give rise to fulminant fatal processes of CNS Acanthamoeba infections mostly have a chronical course and immunodeficiency could be a favouring factor for acanthamoebiasis. Naegleria amebae may invade nasal mucosa after having contacts to warm and contaminated water, on the other hand Acanthamoeba infections develop when damaged skin come into contact with soil or slug or after inhalation of ameba cysts. From various reasons of hospital hygiene findings of FLA in water of stomatological units and physiotherapeutic centres, moreover also in dialysis fluids are of interest and give rise to considerations for specific measures of prevention.
Insights
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are widespread and can infect humans and animals. Understanding their transmission routes is crucial for preventing infections like primary amoebic meningoencephalitis and Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Context:
- Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous microorganisms with the potential to cause infections in humans and animals.
- Different FLA species, such as Naegleria and Acanthamoeba, present distinct clinical manifestations and transmission routes.
- Naegleria fowleri causes acute, often fatal, central nervous system infections, while Acanthamoeba infections typically follow a chronic course, potentially exacerbated by immunodeficiency.
Purpose:
- To highlight the distribution and infection pathways of free-living amoebae.
- To differentiate the clinical presentations and modes of infection for Naegleria and Acanthamoeba species.
- To underscore the significance of FLA detection in healthcare settings and the need for preventive measures.
Summary:
- Free-living amoebae (FLA) are found globally and can infect humans and animals through various routes.
- Naegleria species, particularly Naegleria fowleri, cause severe central nervous system infections, often fatal.
- Acanthamoeba infections are typically chronic and may be more prevalent in immunocompromised individuals, entering the body via skin or inhalation.
- FLA presence in hospital water systems (dental, physiotherapy, dialysis) necessitates specific preventive strategies.
Impact:
- Informing public health initiatives regarding safe water practices and recreational water exposure.
- Guiding clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols for amoebic infections.
- Promoting enhanced hospital hygiene and water safety measures to mitigate healthcare-associated infections.