Entamoeba gingivalis
Entamoeba gingivalis
Entamoeba gingivalis (pronunciation: en-ta-mee-ba gin-ji-va-lis) is a species of amoeba that is commonly found in the human mouth and is associated with periodontal diseases.
Etymology
The term "Entamoeba" is derived from the Greek words "entos" meaning "within" and "amoibe" meaning "change", referring to the amoeba's ability to change shape. "Gingivalis" is derived from the Latin word "gingiva" meaning "gum", indicating the organism's location in the human body.
Description
Entamoeba gingivalis is a protozoan that resides in the oral cavity, particularly in the gingival pockets of the gums. It is a non-pathogenic amoeba, meaning it does not typically cause disease. However, it is often associated with periodontal disease and other oral health problems.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Entamoeba gingivalis involves two stages: the trophozoite stage and the cyst stage. The trophozoite stage is the active, feeding, and dividing stage, while the cyst stage is the dormant, non-feeding stage that allows the amoeba to survive in harsh conditions.
Pathogenicity
While Entamoeba gingivalis is not typically pathogenic, it is often found in higher numbers in individuals with periodontal disease. It is thought that the amoeba may contribute to the disease by damaging the gum tissue and promoting inflammation.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Entamoeba gingivalis
- Wikipedia's article - Entamoeba gingivalis
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