A PARASITIC GUT INFECTION THAT CAN SPREAD TO THE LIVER
Amoebiasis
A parasitic gut infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica, leading to diarrhoea, abdominal pain and blood in stool, with risk of liver abscess if untreated. Treated effectively with anti-parasitic therapy.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Amoebiasis
Amoebiasis is a parasitic infection of the intestines caused by Entamoeba histolytica, a single-celled organism spread through contaminated food, water or close contact in unhygienic conditions. Many infected people have no symptoms and may unknowingly pass the parasite in their stools, while others develop intestinal amoebiasis with diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramping and blood or mucus in the stool. In some cases, the parasite invades the bowel wall and travels to the liver, forming an amoebic liver abscess that causes high fever, right upper abdominal pain and weight loss. Effective targeted medication and supportive care lead to full recovery in the vast majority of patients. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate diagnosis and complete amoebiasis care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Drinking water contaminated with Entamoeba histolytica
- Eating food prepared with contaminated water or by infected handlers
- Poor sanitation and inadequate hygiene
- Travel to areas where amoebiasis is common
- Close contact within households of infected individuals
- Weakened immunity in some patients
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Stool examination, blood tests and ultrasound or scans for liver abscess
Asymptomatic carrier · Intestinal amoebiasis · Amoebic liver abscess
Targeted anti-parasitic therapy followed by luminal therapy
Most respond to medical therapy; some need drainage
Safe drinking water, hand hygiene and proper food preparation
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Two-Step Anti-Parasitic Therapy
The most effective approach is a structured two-step treatment — first a targeted anti-parasitic medication to clear the invading parasites, followed by a luminal agent to eliminate any parasites remaining in the bowel. This reduces the risk of relapse and onward transmission.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms and exposure history, examines the patient and orders stool tests, blood tests and imaging where indicated.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan based on the type of amoebiasis — asymptomatic carrier, intestinal disease or liver abscess.
- 3
Medical Management
Targeted anti-parasitic therapy followed by luminal therapy, with supportive care and monitoring of liver function.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up review and repeat testing where indicated, with counselling on prevention through hygiene and safe food and water practices.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Targeted Anti-Parasitic Therapy
Effective medication is used to clear the invading amoebic parasites from tissues, particularly in intestinal amoebiasis and liver abscess.
Adjunct Luminal Therapy
A second medication is given to eliminate any parasites remaining in the bowel, preventing relapse and onward transmission.
Supportive Care
Symptom relief, rest and treatment of associated complications support recovery during the illness.
Hydration
Adequate oral or intravenous fluids prevent and correct dehydration caused by diarrhoea.
Hygiene and Sanitation Advice
Counselling on safe water, food preparation and personal hygiene reduces the risk of re-infection and household spread.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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