Amebiasis

Abstract

Infection with the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica has a cosmopolitan distribution, with the prevalence varying between 5% in temperate areas to 80% in some tropical communities. The primary habitat of E. histolytica is the gastrointestinal tract, where in the majority of cases the protozoa appear to be largely confined to the lumen. Under as yet unknown circumstances, which may involve either host or parasite factors, E. histolytica invades the intestinal mucosa, often leading to diarrhea and dysentery. From the intestines the organisms may also pass to other organs, particularly the liver, where they can initiate abscess formation.