Entamoeba
Entamoeba
Entamoeba (/ɛntəˈmiːbə/, from the Greek entos, "within", and amoibe, "change") is a genus of Amoebidae, one of the major groups of Amoebozoa, and a parasitic protozoan.
Etymology
The name Entamoeba is derived from the Greek words entos meaning 'within' and amoibe meaning 'change', signifying the amoeboid movement of the organism.
Description
Entamoeba is a single-celled microorganism that primarily infects humans and other primates. Although most individuals infected with Entamoeba do not show symptoms, it can cause severe disease, including amoebiasis, a type of gastroenteritis.
Species
There are several species of Entamoeba, including Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Entamoeba moshkovskii, Entamoeba coli, and Entamoeba gingivalis. Entamoeba histolytica is the most well-known due to its ability to cause serious disease in humans.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Entamoeba involves two stages: a trophozoite stage, where the amoeba feeds, grows, and multiplies, and a cyst stage, where it becomes dormant and can survive outside the host.
Pathology
Entamoeba histolytica can cause amoebic dysentery and amoebic liver abscess. It is transmitted through contaminated food and water.
Treatment
Treatment for Entamoeba infection typically involves antiprotozoal drugs such as metronidazole and paromomycin.
Prevention
Prevention of Entamoeba infection involves proper sanitation, including handwashing and safe food and water practices.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Entamoeba
- Wikipedia's article - Entamoeba
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