Balamuthia mandrillaris

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Balamuthia mandrillaris

Balamuthia mandrillaris (pronunciation: bal-uh-MOO-thee-uh man-drill-AIR-is) is a free-living amoeba that can cause a rare and usually fatal infection of the brain and spinal cord, known as Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE).

Etymology

The organism was first identified in 1986 and named after William Balamuth, a prominent parasitologist, and the mandrill, the type of primate from which it was first isolated.

Description

Balamuthia mandrillaris is a single-celled organism that is found in soil and dust worldwide. It can enter the body through the nose or through wounds in the skin, and then travel to the brain and spinal cord, causing severe inflammation and damage.

Related Terms

  • Amoeba: A type of single-celled organism, many of which are free-living, but some of which can cause disease in humans.
  • Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE): A rare and usually fatal infection of the brain and spinal cord caused by Balamuthia mandrillaris.
  • Parasitologist: A scientist who studies parasites and their biology and pathology.
  • Primate: The group of mammals that includes humans, apes, monkeys, and others.
  • Inflammation: A response of body tissues to injury or irritation, characterized by pain, swelling, redness, and heat.

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