Brain Eating Amoeba: A Critical Analysis

• Published in: International journal for research in applied science and engineering technology 2023-09, Vol.11 (9), p.76-79
• Main Authors: Singh, Ravikant, Singh, Preeti, Singh, Sanskriti, Shukla, Bhavya, Singh, Devraj, Dubey, Aniket, Kaushal, Ritika, Kushwaha, Priya
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2321-9653; 2321-9653
• DOI: 10.22214/ijraset.2023.55610

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is an uncommon yet deadly brain infection caused by a eukaryotic organism known as Naegleria fowleri (N. fowleri). The objective of this review is to consolidate recently published case reports of N. fowleri infections by detailing its epidemiology and clinical features, with the aim of disseminating this information to healthcare professionals. A critical analysis was done by using different available databases until August 31, 2023. All studies from 2013 onwards were extracted, and rigorous quality assessments were performed prior to their inclusion in the final analysis. The cases were geographically diverse, with 72.7% of cases resulting in mortality. The youngest case involved an 11- day-old infant, while the oldest was a 75-year-old individual. Substantial exposure to brackish water, either through recreational activities or the habit of nasal flushing, preceded the onset of symptoms. Early symptoms included fever, headache, and vomiting, while later stages exhibited neurological manifestations. Accurate diagnosis remains challenging due to symptom overlap with bacterial meningitis. Confirmatory tests involve visualizing the amoeba directly or using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. Infection with N. fowleri is rare but leads to PAM, a condition with global presence and significant fatality risk. A suggested clinical case profile, based on the findings, involves the sudden onset of fever, headache, vomiting, and meningeal symptoms after exposure to freshwater within the past 14 days. Continuous health promotion and public education about freshwater activities can enhance awareness and knowledge before engaging in such activities involving brackish water.