From the Guidelines
The true statement regarding Entamoeba histolytica is that Diloxanide Furoate is an effective luminal agent. This is based on the understanding that Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan parasite that causes amebiasis, an intestinal infection characterized by dysentery and potential extraintestinal complications.
- Entamoeba histolytica possesses cytolytic enzymes that allow it to break down host tissues and invade beyond the intestinal lumen into the colonic wall, causing ulcerations and, in some cases, spreading to other organs like the liver where it can form abscesses.
- Infection typically occurs through ingestion of cysts in contaminated food or water, with symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to severe dysentery with bloody stools.
- Treatment for invasive amebiasis usually involves metronidazole (500-750 mg three times daily for 7-10 days) followed by a luminal agent like paromomycin (25-35 mg/kg/day in three divided doses for 7 days) or Diloxanide Furoate to eliminate cyst passage and prevent transmission, as supported by 1.
- The use of Diloxanide Furoate as a luminal agent is specifically highlighted for its effectiveness in treating the luminal phase of the infection, making option A the correct statement regarding Entamoeba histolytica. Key points to consider in the management of Entamoeba histolytica infection include:
- Accurate diagnosis through stool examination or serological tests to distinguish it from non-pathogenic amoebas.
- Prompt treatment with metronidazole for invasive disease, followed by a luminal agent.
- Prevention of transmission through improved sanitation and hygiene practices. Given the potential for severe complications, including extraintestinal disease, it is crucial to prioritize effective treatment and prevention strategies, as outlined in guidelines such as those provided by 1.
From the Research
Entamoeba histolytica Statements
- The following statements are given regarding Entamoeba histolytica:
- A. Diloxanide Furoate is an effective luminal agent
- B. It is a common cause of traveler’s diarrhea
- C. It may cause pyogenic liver abscess
- D. It usually cause abscess in the left lobe of the liver
- E. Metronidazole is ineffective in treating invasive disease
Analysis of Statements
- Statement A: Diloxanide Furoate is an effective luminal agent. This statement is supported by studies 2, 3, 4, 5, which show that diloxanide furoate is used for treating asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic persons who are passing cysts of Entamoeba histolytica and is effective in treating luminal infections.
- Statement B: It is a common cause of traveler’s diarrhea. There is no evidence in the provided studies to support this statement.
- Statement C: It may cause pyogenic liver abscess. While Entamoeba histolytica can cause liver abscess, the provided studies 3, 4 do not specify that it is pyogenic.
- Statement D: It usually cause abscess in the left lobe of the liver. The provided studies do not specify the location of the liver abscess.
- Statement E: Metronidazole is ineffective in treating invasive disease. This statement is not supported by the studies 3, 4, 5, which show that metronidazole is effective in treating invasive amebiasis, including amebic liver abscess.