Balamuthia mandrillaris

Balamuthia mandrillaris is a free-living amoeba that is pathogenic and can cause serious infections in humans and animals. It was first identified in 1986 and is the causative agent of Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE), a rare and often fatal disease of the central nervous system.

Taxonomy

Balamuthia mandrillaris belongs to the Balamuthiidae family and the Balamuthia genus. It is the only species in its genus. The organism was named after William Balamuth, a distinguished parasitologist, and the mandrill baboon, from which it was first isolated.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Balamuthia mandrillaris consists of two stages: the trophozoite stage and the cyst stage. In the trophozoite stage, the amoeba is active and feeds on bacteria and other food sources. In the cyst stage, the amoeba forms a protective wall around itself and becomes dormant.

Pathogenesis

Balamuthia mandrillaris can cause Balamuthia amoebic encephalitis (BAE), a severe and often fatal brain infection. The amoeba can enter the body through the nasal passages or through open wounds. Once inside the body, it can travel to the brain and cause severe damage.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Balamuthia mandrillaris infection is challenging due to its rarity and the nonspecific symptoms it causes. It is often diagnosed post-mortem. Treatment typically involves a combination of several drugs, including antifungal medications, antibiotics, and antiprotozoal drugs. However, the effectiveness of these treatments is limited, and the mortality rate remains high.

Prevention

Prevention of Balamuthia mandrillaris infection involves avoiding contact with soil and dust, particularly for individuals with open wounds or who are immunocompromised.

See Also

• Acanthamoeba
• Naegleria fowleri
• Amoebic encephalitis