Description Entamoeba histolyti...
Description
Entamoeba histolytica is an ameba causing an infection of the intestines. In a severe case, infection may spread and cause an abscess elsewhere in the body. The liver is the most common organ involved. This disorder is more common in patients living in or traveling through tropical areas. The ameba is usually acquired by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the ameba.
Symptoms
Loose stools, stomach pain, stomach cramping, bloody diarrhea, fever.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Stool cultures to isolate the Entamoeba organism. If an abscess is being considered a CT scan or MRI may be recommended.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Stool cultures
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Stool cultures to isolate the Entamoeba organism. If an abscess is being considered a CT scan or MRI may be recommended.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Stool cultures
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
Treatment
Treatment includes antibiotics and intravenous fluids. Abscesses may require percutaneous drainage or surgery.