Diseases
amebiasis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Amebiasis, or amoebic dysentery, is an infection caused by a parasite that your body sheds through stool. When the parasite gets into your intestine, it can cause symptoms like cramping and diarrhea. Healthcare providers treat amebiasis with antibiotics. Left untreated, amoebic dysentery can lead to complications or death.
Symptoms
- nausea
- fever.
- cramping (abdominal pain).
- diarrhea (sometimes with rectal bleeding).
- loose stools (amebiasis stool color may not change, but stools may be watery).
Causes
- the parasite e. histolytica causes amebiasis. a parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism, known as its host. the parasite gets its nutrition from the host.
Risk factors
- older or younger age.
- recent travel to a tropical region.
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- medical history
- signs and symptoms.
- blood tests to check the liver function.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is amebiasis?
Amebiasis, or amoebic dysentery, is an infection caused by a parasite that your body sheds through stool. When the parasite gets into your intestine, it can cause symptoms like cramping and diarrhea. Healthcare providers treat amebiasis with antibiotics. Left untreated, amoebic dysentery can lead to complications or death.
What are the symptoms of amebiasis?
nausea, fever., cramping (abdominal pain)., diarrhea (sometimes with rectal bleeding)., loose stools (amebiasis stool color may not change, but stools may be watery).
What causes amebiasis?
the parasite e. histolytica causes amebiasis. a parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism, known as its host. the parasite gets its nutrition from the host.
Which medicines are used for amebiasis?
chloroquine, diiodohydroxyquinoline, erythromycin, metronidazole, ornidazole, tinidazole
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