A recent three-year surveillance study conducted by the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (ICMR-NICED) brings to light the emerging prominence of Entamoeba moshkovskii (E. Moshkovskii) as a primary pathogen causing diarrhoea outbreaks in the Kolkata region. The previously non-pathogenic amoeba has now surpassed E. histolytica, which was once the principal cause of amoebic infections.
Key Findings of the Study
The research delved into several vital aspects, including the prevalence of E. moshkovskii, the decline of E. histolytica, unique seasonal patterns, age predominance, pathogenic potential and molecular identification.
The study revealed that more than 3% of patients with diarrhoea were infected with E. moshkovskii, making it the main cause of amoebic infections in humans in Kolkata. In contrast, infections caused by E. histolytica were decreasing, paving the way for E. moshkovskii’s dominance.
Unlike E. histolytica, which usually peaked during the wet season and decreased during the dry season, E. moshkovskii portrayed a unique seasonal pattern with two distinct infection peaks corresponding with the summer and post-fall seasons.
E. moshkovskii infections were most prevalent among children aged between 5 and 12 years. Furthermore, the study pointed out that E. moshkovskii has the potential of becoming a primary pathogen, causing diarrhoea and gastrointestinal disorders, rather than just being an inhabitant of the human gut.
Molecular Identification Challenges
Due to morphological similarities between E. histolytica and E. moshkovskii, PCR-based molecular identification was needed to distinguish between the two. Remarkably, E. moshkovskii was identified in over 50% of diarrhoea cases caused by amoebic parasites.
About Entamoeba moshkovskii
E. moshkovskii belongs to the same genus as E. histolytica but has distinctive genetic and biochemical traits. It was initially isolated from sewage in Moscow in 1941. This amoeba is commonly found in soil, water, and animals, and causes symptoms like diarrhoea, tummy pain, fever, and dehydration. In severe cases, it could damage the intestines leading to ulcers, bleeding or even grievous conditions like liver infections.
Transmission Mechanisms and Diagnosis Challenges
People can contract an infection by consuming contaminated food or water. Direct contact with feces also poses a risk of spreading the infection. Diagnosing this parasitic infection can be challenging as E. moshkovskii resembles E. histolytica under a microscope. Special tests like PCR or DNA sequencing are necessary for accurate identification.
Treatment Hurdles for E. moshkovskii Infections
Treating infections caused by E. moshkovskii can be complex. The usual drugs used for amoebic infections may not work effectively against this pathogen. Therefore, more research is required to discover the most effective treatment options.