The recent tragic incident of a 12-year-old boy in Ferok, Kerala, has highlighted a rare and deadly brain infection called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This is the third case of PAM in Kerala in just a few months, raising concerns about this little-known disease. Let’s take a closer look at what this “brain-eating amoeba” is and the dangers it poses.
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What is primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)?
PAM is a devastating infection of the central nervous system caused by a free-living amoeba called Naegleria fowleri, which is commonly found in warm freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers and poorly maintained swimming pools.
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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states: “Naegleria fowleri lives in soil and warm freshwater lakes, rivers, ponds and hot springs throughout the world.”
“In rare cases, Naegleria fowleri has been found in poorly maintained swimming pools, paddling pools, and other recreational areas. The amoeba can also be found in tap water. If water containing the amoeba enters the nasal cavity and brain, it can cause an infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM),” It added.
How does infection occur?
Infection with Naegleria fowleri occurs when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, which usually occurs in freshwater recreational activities such as lakes and rivers where the water is warmer in the summer.
The amoeba travels along the olfactory nerves into the brain, destroying brain tissue and causing severe inflammation and swelling.
The CDC mentioned that the reason is, “Naegleria fowleri is an amoeba that naturally lives in the environment and thrives in high temperatures. It can be found in:
- Warm fresh water, such as lakes, rivers, and ponds
- Soil, including sediments at the bottom of lakes, rivers, and ponds
- Natural hot (geothermal) water, such as hot springs or hot drinking water sources
- Swimming pools, paddling pools, surf parks and other recreational areas are poorly maintained or have insufficient chlorine levels
- Hot water discharge from industry or power plants
“If Naegleria fowleri enters the brain through the nasal cavity, it can damage brain tissue and cause a fatal brain infection called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). PAM usually occurs when people swim or dive in warm freshwater lakes, rivers or hot springs,” It added.
What are the symptoms of primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)?
Symptoms of PAM may appear within 1 to 2 weeks of exposure and develop rapidly. According to the CDC, symptoms of PAM are as follows:
- Changes in your sense of smell or taste
- Headache
- fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- stiff neck
As the infection progresses, people may experience:
What is the treatment for primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) infection?
While there is no cure for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which is caused by the “brain-eating amoeba” Naegleria fowleri, there are treatment options. The Cleveland Clinic mentions the following treatments:
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The main drug used is the antifungal drug amphotericin B. However, recent success stories in North America have highlighted the importance of a multi-pronged approach. These cases have involved combining amphotericin B with other drugs such as rifampicin, fluconazole and miltefosine (a drug used to treat leishmaniasis).
The most important factors for survival appear to be early diagnosis and prompt treatment with these drugs. In addition, lowering body temperature to reduce brain swelling has been shown to be beneficial in some cases.
How can primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) infection be prevented?
There is no specific treatment for PAM, so prevention is crucial. Here are some key steps to reduce your risk:
- Avoid swimming or diving in warm freshwater sources, especially those with a history of contamination.
- Use a nose clip when swimming in potentially contaminated water.
- Properly chlorinate and maintain your swimming pool.
Although rare, PAM is a serious and potentially fatal condition. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, we can keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.
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Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion