A Fatal Case of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis from Recreational Waters.
Publication/Presentation Date
1-1-2020
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Naegleria Fowleri is a single-cell, thermophilic amphizoid amoeba, and a rare known causative agent for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis with >97% mortality rate. The amoeba resides in freshwater lakes and ponds but can also survive in inadequately chlorinated pools and recreational waters. The mode of infection includes activities such as diving or jumping into freshwater or submerging the head under the water. Although most commonly seen in the southern United States, it is essential to keep this clinical suspicion in mind regardless of geography, as presenting symptoms can be very similar to classic bacterial meningitis.
CONCLUSION: As per the CDC, only four people out of 143 known infected individuals in the United States from 1962 to 2017 have survived. Symptoms start with a median of 5 days after exposure to contaminated water. Given the rarity of this case and its very high mortality rate, it is crucial to diagnose primary amoebic meningoencephalitis accurately as its presentation can mimic bacterial meningitis. It is vital to obtain a careful and thorough history, as it can aid in prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Volume
2020
First Page
9235794
Last Page
9235794
ISSN
2090-6420
Published In/Presented At
Hamaty, E., Jr, Faiek, S., Nandi, M., Stidd, D., Trivedi, M., & Kandukuri, H. (2020). A Fatal Case of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis from Recreational Waters. Case reports in critical care, 2020, 9235794. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/9235794
Disciplines
Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
PubMedID
32550028
Department(s)
Administration and Leadership
Document Type
Article