Amebiasis
Abstract
Amebiasis is invasion of human tissues by the protozoon Entamoeba histolytica. Infection begins when trophozoites of E. histolytica invade the colonic mucosa. The infection may remain localized and be minimal for years, or it may extend to the liver and other organs. What was once thought to be a single species based on morphology is now known to be three genetically distinct species: Entamoeba histolytica (pathogen), Entamoeba dispar (commensal),1 and Entamoeba moshkovskii (commensal).2 The free-living amebas that cause meningoencephalitis are discussed in Chapter 9, those infecting other sites are included in this chapter.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA547766
Entities
People
- Douglas J. Wear
- Mary K. Klassen-fischer
- Ronald C. Neafie