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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2007; 20(1): 033-037
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-970198
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Amebiasis

Karim A. Alavi1
  • 1Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, St. Paul Minnesota
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Publication History

Publication Date:
28 February 2007 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Amebiasis is an important cause of death from parasitic disease worldwide. The causative organism is Entamoeba histolytica, which has an infective cyst stage and a pathogenic and motile trophozoite stage. The clinical presentation can vary from an asymptomatic carrier state to fulminant colitis and colonic perforation. The majority of patients can be managed medically. However, a small percentage of patients require urgent exploration and resection with an associated high mortality rate. Early recognition and initiation of medical therapy including treatment of asymptomatic carriers are vital to preventing catastrophic outcomes.

KEYWORDS

Ameba - colitis - fulminant - parasite

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Karim A AlaviM.D. 

Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota

393 Dunlap Ave. North, Ste. 500, St. Paul, MN 55104

Email: alav0006@umn.edu