Balamuthia mandrillaris is a free-living amoeba that can cause a rare and often fatal brain infection called granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE). It is commonly found in soil, dust, and water, particularly in warm, freshwater environments.
This amoeba can enter the human body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through inhalation of dust particles containing the organism. Once it enters the body, Balamuthia travels through the bloodstream to the brain, where it causes severe inflammation and damage to brain tissue. Symptoms of GAE can include headaches, fever, nausea, and neurological issues, and if left untreated, the infection can be fatal.
Naegleria fowleri, another type of free-living amoeba, is also a cause of serious brain infections, most notably primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). It is typically found in warm freshwater environments, such as hot springs, lakes, and poorly maintained swimming pools.
Unlike Balamuthia, Naegleria fowleri generally enters the body through the nose when water containing the amoeba is forced into the nasal passages, often during water activities like swimming. The amoeba then migrates to the brain, causing inflammation and rapid destruction of brain tissue. PAM is a rapidly progressive infection with symptoms like headache, fever, nausea, and loss of smell, usually leading to death within a week.
Both Balamuthia mandrillaris and Naegleria fowleri are rare, but extremely dangerous pathogens that affect the central nervous system. While infections are uncommon, they are almost always fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.
Because these amoebas thrive in warm environments, they are more commonly found in certain geographic areas during the summer months – especially warmer climates of the USA. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial, though even with intervention, survival rates are low due to the severity of the infections.
Over 300 cases have been documented while it is believed that numerous cases have gone undocumented as symptoms are similar to meningitis.
These amoebas are 100% treatable with various antifungal and antibiotic treatments, but they must be detected early or the likelihood of patient mortality is 99%. This makes the necessity for awareness paramount, as the proper treatment can only be administered if medical professionals and patients alike are aware of these amoebas and pursue their detection.
Please explore our site to learn more about how you can help prevent this avoidable tragedy from impacting you, your family, and your community.
Koral’s Story – Understanding Amoebas – Safety & Prevention
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