Why Is It Called Amebic Dysentery?

Amoebic dysentery is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica

. It is transmitted in areas where poor sanitation allows contamination of drinking water and food with faeces. In these areas, up to 40% of people with diarrhoea may have amoebic dysentery.

What causes amebic dysentery?

Amebiasis is an intestinal (bowel) illness caused by a microscopic (tiny) parasite called Entamoeba histolytica, which is spread through human feces (poop). Often there are no symptoms, but, sometimes it causes diarrhea (loose stool/poop), nausea (a feeling of sickness in the stomach), and weight loss.

What is the difference between amoebic dysentery and dysentery?

Dysentery is a severe diarrhea containing blood and mucus in the feces. Dysentery results from viral, bacterial, or protozoan infections or parasitic infestations. Amebic dysentery (amebiasis) is caused by an ameba called Entamoeba histolytica.