Brain-Eating Amoeba: The Hidden Killer
What is Naegleria fowleri?
Naegleria fowleri is a microscopic amoeba that can cause a deadly infection of the brain called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). It is found in warm, freshwater environments, such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs.
How does N. fowleri infect humans?
N. fowleri typically infects humans through the nose. When someone swims in contaminated water, the amoeba can enter the nose and travel up the olfactory nerve to the brain. Once in the brain, the amoeba begins to destroy brain tissue.
Symptoms of N. fowleri infection
The first symptoms of N. fowleri infection are often mild and nonspecific, such as headache, nausea, and fever. However, as the infection progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including:
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion
- Coma
How does N. fowleri kill?
Traditionally, it was thought that N. fowleri killed by directly destroying brain tissue. However, recent research suggests that the amoeba may actually be killed by the body’s own immune response.
When N. fowleri enters the brain, it triggers an inflammatory response. This inflammation leads to brain swelling, which can disrupt the blood-brain barrier and allow toxins from the amoeba to enter the brain. These toxins can cause further brain damage and ultimately lead to death.
Treatment for N. fowleri infection
There is no specific cure for N. fowleri infection. Treatment is supportive and focuses on reducing brain swelling and controlling seizures. In some cases, doctors may also use antifungal medications to kill the amoeba.
Prevention of N. fowleri infection
The best way to prevent N. fowleri infection is to avoid swimming in warm, freshwater environments where the amoeba is known to be present. If you do swim in these areas, be sure to wear a nose clip to prevent water from entering your nose.
Case study: The first survivor of N. fowleri infection
In 2013, a 12-year-old girl became the first survivor of N. fowleri infection in decades. Doctors approached her case with a focus on reducing brain swelling, and this may have contributed to her survival.
Ongoing research
Researchers are continuing to study N. fowleri infection in order to better understand how it kills and how to prevent and treat it. This research may lead to new treatments and strategies for preventing this deadly disease.