Molecular testing for Entamoeba histolytica is used for laboratory documentation of amoebiasis in patients with signs and symptoms of amoeba infection, in combination with clinical and epidemiological risk factors.
The genus Entamoeba contains many species, six of which can be found in the human gastrointestinal tract (Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Entamoeba moshkovskii, Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba hartmanni, and Entamoeba polecki).
The World Health Organization estimates that Entamoeba histolytica infection is responsible for approximately 50 million cases of amoebiasis worldwide each year, resulting in up to 100.000 deaths. The disease is mainly transmitted through food or water contaminated with cysts, but can also be transmitted from person to person through the fecal-oral route. The clinical features of intestinal amoebiasis range from asymptomatic colonization (90% of cases) to amoebic dysentery (abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, and severe diarrhea with bloody and mucous stools, fever) and invasive extraintestinal amebiasis most commonly in the form of liver abscesses.
This pathogenic amoeba Entamoeba histolytica is morphologically indistinguishable in the cyst and trophozoite stages using a microscope of E. dispar and E. moshkovskii species, whose ability to cause disease is unclear.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
