On Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis Caused by Naegleria fowleri

A Scoping Literature Review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56226/66

Keywords:

primary amoebic encephalitis, Naegleria fowleri, brain-eating amoeba, Public Health, Epidemiology

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba (FLA) ubiquitous to the environment. Although harmless when ingested, it can access a person's brain through the nasal cavities and cause an acute infection known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).

METHODS: A scoping literature review presenting valuable information to healthcare providers about the critical features and pathogenesis of N. fowleri by synthesizing the existing literature databases accessible on the National Library of Medicine (NCBI) platform.

RESULTS: The prodromal stage of PAM is vague and often misdiagnosed as viral or bacterial meningitis, and regardless of treatments and supportive care, patients rapidly succumb once symptoms appear. Delayed and ineffective care, along with unnecessary tests and procedures, can cause irreversible brain damage and ultimately lead to death. Additionally, the exact mechanism of action for treatment remains unclear, and the standard therapeutic protocol recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consists of an aggressive but unreliable combination of antibiotics.

CONTRIBUTION TO EVIDENCE-BASED CARE: PAM is a rare disease with a high fatality rate, so prioritizing prevention and early detection highlights the importance of preparedness in healthcare settings. A postmortem brain tissue examination is typically required to confirm the diagnosis. Overall, raising awareness about the risks of N. fowleri and the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment is crucial to reducing the incidence and impact of this deadly disease.

Author Biography

Ediane Gallo, University of Florida, USA

Masters in Public Health

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01-06-2024

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Gallo, E. (2024). On Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis Caused by Naegleria fowleri: A Scoping Literature Review. International Healthcare Review (online). https://doi.org/10.56226/66

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