DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000001236 ISSN: 0951-7375

A review into the recent advances in the world of amoebiasis

Louis Egerton, Gauri Godbole
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Purpose of review

Amoebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica , affecting 10% of the global population. It is a well recognized cause of morbidity and mortality in low–middle-income countries where it is endemic. However, with increased migration and global travel, amoebiasis is now more common in high-income countries, although diagnosis is often delayed or even missed due to lack of awareness of the latest epidemiology and optimal diagnostic testing. This review discusses the evolving prevalence, and the current international guidelines for the investigation and treatment of amoebiasis, focusing on recent advances.

Recent findings

The recent literature shows that the primary investigations for amoebiasis remain the same, though newer modalities such as artificial intelligence-powered microscopy and metagenomics have been developed recently, which aids the accuracy and speed of diagnosis. Treatment remains the same, though current research has found potential new drugs and drug targets which show promise.

Summary

This review reinforces the importance of early clinical suspicion, diagnosis and treatment for amoebiasis. What was once a disease only seen in endemic countries or travel-associated imported cases is now more common and must not be missed.

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