Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery) — treatment in Lahore
Also known as: Amebiasis · Amoebic Dysentery · Entamoeba Infection
Amoebiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. It is common in Pakistan, spread by contaminated food and water, and can cause anything from mild diarrhea to severe dysentery or amoebic liver abscess.
Overview
Entamoeba histolytica infection is common in Pakistan. Most cases respond well to a short course of treatment; rarely, the infection can spread to the liver (amebic liver abscess).
Signs & symptoms of Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery)
If you recognize one or more of these, it may be worth a consultation:
- Loose stools, sometimes with blood and mucus
- Lower-abdominal cramping
- Weight loss in chronic cases
- Right-upper-abdominal pain (suggests liver involvement)
Causes & risk factors
Several factors can contribute to Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery). Identifying yours guides the treatment plan.
- Contaminated water and food
- Poor sanitation
- Close contact with carriers
How Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery) is diagnosed
We order tests selectively — only what changes the plan.
- Stool microscopy for cysts/trophozoites
- Stool antigen test
- Abdominal ultrasound when liver abscess suspected
Treatment options
Treatment for Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery) is personalized — the right plan depends on your symptoms, test results, and life situation.
- 1 Metronidazole or tinidazole for invasive disease
- 2 Paromomycin or diloxanide furoate to eradicate luminal carriage
- 3 Drainage for large amoebic liver abscesses
- 4 Hospitalization in severe cases
When should you see a doctor about Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery)?
Reach out without delay if you notice any of the following.
- Bloody diarrhea
- Mucus in stool
- Right-upper-abdominal pain (possible liver abscess)
- Persistent diarrhea over 1 week
Related services
How we treat Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery) at Javaid Poly Clinic.
Dr Usman Javaid
Gastroenterology & Medicine Diplomat · DIP (Gastro) UK · DIP (Hepatology) UK · DIP (Diabetes) UK · MCPS FM-TC · MPH · FRSPH (UK) · FRCP (Colombo) · Organ Transplant Advisor · CHPE (NUMS) · Preventive Medicine Specialist · Owner of Javaid Poly Clinic.
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Usman Javaid on . Content is updated when new evidence or guidelines emerge.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical consultation. If you have symptoms of Amoebiasis (Amebic Dysentery) or any other condition, please book a consultation. In emergencies, call 1122 or visit your nearest emergency department.