Amebiasis as the Cause of Pediatric Fever of Unknown Origin

Elda Skenderi,Admir Sulovari,Myrvete Jaku,Irena Dautaj,Gjeorgjina Kuli-Lito,Briseida Doga

doi:10.4236/jbm.2022.102007

Abstract

Amebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoa Entamoeba histolytica. It is capable of causing a spectrum of illnesses from asymptomatic infection, to dysentery and invasive extra-intestinal conditions, the most common of which is liver abscess. Here is presented the case of a 14-month old boy presented with Fever of Unknown Origin, which after work-up was diagnosed as amebic liver abscess. Although amebiasis is more prevalent in developing countries the increasing phenomena of migration and tourism has transformed it into a global health issue. It is recommended to maintain a high index of suspicion while valuating a child with Fever of Unknown Origin.

Highlights

IntroductionAmebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoa Entamoeba histolytica, which can inflict both intestinal and extra-intestinal disease, the most common of those is liver abscess
Is presented the case of a 14-month old boy presented with Fever of Unknown Origin, which after work-up was diagnosed as amebic liver abscess
Amebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoa Entamoeba histolytica, which can inflict both intestinal and extra-intestinal disease, the most common of those is liver abscess

Summary

Introduction

Amebiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoa Entamoeba histolytica, which can inflict both intestinal and extra-intestinal disease, the most common of those is liver abscess. E. histolytica is a pseudopod-forming, non-fllagelated protozoal parasite that causes proteolysis and tissue lysis, and can induce host-cell apoptosis (Figure 1) [1] It is transmitted through the fecal-oral route. The clinical spectrum of amebiasis ranges from asymptomatic infection to fulminant colitis and peritonitis to extra-intestinal amebiasis, the most common form of which is amebic liver abscess. Amebic liver abscess is the most common form of extras-intestinal amebiasis. In non-endemic areas, asymptomatic infection should be treated because invasive disease may develop and shedding of E. histolytica cysts in the environment is a public health concern [4]. Amebic liver abscess of up to 10 cm can be cured with metronidazole without drainage [7]

Case Report

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Conclusion