Entamoeba histolytica: parasitt som gir alvorlig tarminfeksjon – smitte, symptomer, behandling

Entamoeba histolytica is a single-celled parasite found worldwide in soil and water, especially in crowded, unhygienic areas. Most healthy adults resist infection, but the very young, old, or immunocompromised can develop severe gastrointestinal illness. Transmission: contaminated water, vegetables grown in contaminated soil, or direct contact with infected feces.

Symptoms appear 2-4 weeks post-infection: diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, abdominal cramps. Untreated: severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, risk of liver abscesses and life-threatening complications. Diagnosis: stool sample analysis, possibly blood tests and imaging.

Mild cases: oral antibiotics (iodoquinol, paromomycin) for ≥2 weeks, rest, fluids. Severe cases: hospitalization, IV antibiotics/fluids for ≥1 week. Surgery only if permanent organ damage. Early treatment usually cures even severe infections.