Amoebiasis is caused by?

Appeared in: AIIMS BBSR SNO - 2019

Explanation

Amoebiasis is explicitly defined as an infection caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
This parasite exists in two forms: a motile trophozoite that causes invasive disease and a hardy cyst that is responsible for transmission.
Infection is acquired by ingesting these cysts through contaminated food or water, leading to colonization of the large intestine.
While many infections are asymptomatic, E. histolytica is pathogenic and can cause a spectrum of illness from mild colitis to severe dysentery and life-threatening extra-intestinal abscesses (e.g., in the liver).

Option B: Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, not amoebiasis.
Option C: Leishmania donovani is the protozoan parasite that causes visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar.
Option D: Trypanosoma cruzi is the protozoan parasite responsible for causing Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agent of Amoebiasis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in preventing amoebiasis by educating patients and communities about proper hygiene, sanitation, and food safety practices, such as handwashing and drinking safe, treated water.
Early recognition of symptoms like bloody diarrhea is vital. Nurses must assess for signs of dehydration and complications, ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe outcomes like toxic megacolon or liver abscess.
What if? If a patient with undiagnosed amoebic colitis is mistakenly treated with corticosteroids for suspected inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it can trigger fulminant colitis, a life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate. This highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of medical microbiology.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'Amoebiasis'.
Recall the specific causative agent for this disease. The name 'Amoebiasis' itself is a strong clue, pointing towards an amoeba.
Evaluate the options provided. Entamoeba histolytica directly relates to the term 'amoeba'.
Mentally eliminate the other options by associating them with the diseases they cause: Toxoplasma (Toxoplasmosis), Leishmania (Leishmaniasis), and Trypanosoma (Chagas disease/Trypanosomiasis).
Confirm your choice. Entamoeba histolytica is the classic cause of amoebic dysentery.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QXVJcvLipFtxPe6_JZX1JN

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 2153-2155

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 281-283

Practise the full AIIMS BBSR SNO - 2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.