Abstract
To the Editor: Naegleria fowleri, a free-living ameba, causes acute, fulminant, fatal primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in persons with history of recreational activities in warm freshwater (1,2). During 2008–2009, thirteen case-patients with PAM and no history of recreational water activity were reported from Karachi, Pakistan (3). Since then, PAM caused by domestic water exposure, nasal cleansing by using neti pots, and ablution has been reported globally (4–6). During 2014–2015, the Aga Khan University Hospital clinical laboratory in Karachi confirmed 19 PAM case-patients without history of recreational activities in warm freshwater.
Highlights
During 2008–2009, thirteen case-patients with primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) and no history of recreational water activity were reported from Karachi, Pakistan (3)
We investigated for presence of N. fowleri amebae in domestic water and for the patient’s possible exposure
The other 10 samples were from Plant B and its water distribution system, for which the local government had initiated additional chlorine enhancement because of previously occurring PAM cases
Summary
During 2008–2009, thirteen case-patients with PAM and no history of recreational water activity were reported from Karachi, Pakistan (3). During 2014–2015, the Aga Khan University Hospital clinical laboratory in Karachi confirmed 19 PAM case-patients without history of recreational activities in warm freshwater. In August 2014, a previously healthy 34-year-old man living in Karachi and having no recreational water exposure was admitted to the Aga Khan University Hospital with multiple episodes of vomiting, severe headache, and fever. We investigated for presence of N. fowleri amebae in domestic water and for the patient’s possible exposure.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
