Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan parasite responsible for amoebiasis, an infection that can range from mild or asymptomatic to severe forms, including dysentery and liver abscesses. It is a major public health concern in regions with poor sanitation, particularly in tropical and subtropical countries.
Entamoeba histolytica is an amoeba that primarily infects the human colon, but can also invade the liver and other organs. Infection can lead to amoebic dysentery, characterized by severe diarrhea, or to amoebic liver abscesses. Many infected individuals, however, remain asymptomatic carriers, which contributes to its spread.
Entamoeba histolytica is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, commonly through ingestion of food or water contaminated with fecal matter containing the cysts of the parasite. Poor sanitation and hygiene practices are major contributors to its spread. The cysts can survive outside the body in a moist environment and are responsible for the transmission of the infection.