free-living ameba (microscopic unicellular eukaryotic, organisms) most common in soil and water, that can cause rare, but severe infections of the eye, skin, and central nervous system. It can enter the eyes through contact lens use, cuts, or skin wounds or by being inhaled into the lungs. The three diseases caused by Acanthamoeba are:
Acanthamoeba keratitis – An infection of the eye that typically occurs in healthy persons and can result in permanent visual impairment or blindness.
Granulomatous Amebic Encephalitis (GAE) – A serious infection of the brain and spinal cord that typically occurs in persons with a compromised immune system.
Disseminated infection – An infection where the germ enters the body through a single entry point (a cut, wound, or through the nostrils) and then disperses throughout the body. This widespread infection that can affect the skin, sinuses, lungs, and other organs independently or in combination. It is also more common in persons with a compromised immune system.
Acanthamoeba keratitis – An infection of the eye that typically occurs in healthy persons and can result in permanent visual impairment or blindness.
Granulomatous Amebic Encephalitis (GAE) – A serious infection of the brain and spinal cord that typically occurs in persons with a compromised immune system.
Disseminated infection – An infection where the germ enters the body through a single entry point (a cut, wound, or through the nostrils) and then disperses throughout the body. This widespread infection that can affect the skin, sinuses, lungs, and other organs independently or in combination. It is also more common in persons with a compromised immune system.
