Gastrointestinal Amebiasis, caused by the parasitic amoebas (scientifically known as Entamoeba histolytica), infects the large intestine. Treatment typically hinges on the severity of the infection and commonly involves a 10-day course of orally administered metronidazole.
Luminal drugs target parasites and cysts within the large intestine. These drugs include iodoquinol (Diquinol and others), paromomycin (Humatin), and diloxanide furoate (Furamide). Combining one of these drugs with metronidazole (Flagyl) may address gastrointestinal symptoms. Asymptomatic individuals shedding parasites in their stools may be treated solely with luminal drugs.
Nitroimidazole drugs combat amoebas in the bloodstream, intestinal wall, and in cases of liver abscess. Common nitroimidazole drugs are metronidazole (Flagyl) and tinidazole (Tindamax, Fasigyn), typically prescribed for a ten-day period, either orally or intravenously.
Post-treatment, stool samples are examined to confirm clearance of the infection.
Prognosis:
Drug treatments effectively manage gastrointestinal amebiasis and can resolve the infection within a few weeks. However, without preventive measures, reinfection is possible. Gastrointestinal amebiasis poses a significant risk, particularly for children under five, being the third leading cause of death from parasitic infections.
Amoebic dysentery can persist for several weeks without thorough treatment, increasing the likelihood of recurrent episodes until treatment is completed.