A new diarrhoea bug : Entamoeba Moshkovskii

Source: The Hindu

Context:

The recent three-year surveillance study by the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (ICMR-NICED) reveals the emergence of Entamoeba moshkovskii (E. Moshkovskii) as a leading pathogen causing diarrhoea outbreaks in the Kolkata region.

Key Findings of the Study on E. moshkovskii Infections in Kolkata:

1. E. moshkovskii has emerged as the leading cause of amoebic infections in humans in Kolkata, surpassing E. histolytica.
2. Over 3% of patients with diarrhoea were infected with E. moshkovskii.
3. Infections caused by E. histolytica were decreasing, while E. moshkovskii infections were increasing.
4. E. moshkovskii infections exhibited two distinct peaks during the summer and post-fall seasons, unlike E. histolytica which followed a wet-dry season pattern.
5. Children aged 5-12 years were most affected by E. moshkovskii infections.
6. The study suggests that E. moshkovskii may act as a potential pathogen causing diarrhoea and gastrointestinal disorders, rather than being solely a commensal organism.
7. PCR-based molecular identification was used to differentiate between E. histolytica and E. moshkovskii due to their morphological similarities.
8. E. moshkovskii was identified in more than 50% of diarrhoea cases caused by amoebic parasites.

Entamoeba moshkovskii

Belongs to the same genus as E. histolytica but has distinct genetic and biochemical traits.

Initially isolated from sewage in Moscow in 1941.

Found in soil, water, and animals.

Health Implications of Entamoeba moshkovskii Infections

Can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration.

Has the potential to damage the intestines, leading to ulcers, bleeding, or serious conditions like liver infections.

Modes of Transmission

Infection can occur through the consumption of contaminated food or water.

Direct contact with feces can also result in the spread of the infection.

Challenges in Identification and Treatment

Similar appearance to Entamoeba histolytica under a microscope makes it difficult to differentiate them.

Specialized tests like PCR or DNA sequencing are required for accurate identification.

Treatment of E. moshkovskii infections can be challenging, as the standard drugs used for amoebic infections may not be effective.

Further research is needed to identify optimal treatment options.