Balamuthia infection
Balamuthia Infection
Balamuthia infection (pronunciation: bal-uh-MOO-thee-uh in-fek-shun) is a rare but often fatal central nervous system disease caused by the free-living amoeba, Balamuthia mandrillaris.
Etymology
The term "Balamuthia" is derived from the name of the scientist, William Balamuth, who first isolated the amoeba. The term "infection" comes from the Latin word "infectio", meaning "to stain or dye".
Definition
Balamuthia infection, also known as Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE), is a rare and often fatal disease that affects the brain and other parts of the body. It is caused by the free-living amoeba, Balamuthia mandrillaris, which is found in soil and dust worldwide.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Balamuthia infection can vary greatly, but often include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, seizures, and behavioral changes. In severe cases, the infection can lead to coma and death.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Balamuthia infection is challenging due to its rarity and the nonspecific nature of its symptoms. It is often diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry.
Treatment
Treatment for Balamuthia infection typically involves a combination of antimicrobial drugs, including pentamidine, fluconazole, flucytosine, and sulfadiazine. However, the infection is often fatal despite aggressive treatment.
Prevention
Prevention of Balamuthia infection involves avoiding contact with soil and dust, particularly in areas where the amoeba is known to be present. This can be achieved through the use of protective clothing and masks.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Balamuthia infection
- Wikipedia's article - Balamuthia infection
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