Dysentery amoebic (often referred to as amoebic dysentery) and extraintestinal amoebiasis are both caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica, but they refer to different clinical manifestations of the infection.
Amoebic Dysentery:
- Definition: This is an intestinal infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica that leads to severe diarrheal disease, often with the passing of blood and mucus in stools.
- Symptoms: Symptoms typically include severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and tenesmus (a sensation of incomplete evacuation). The diarrhea may be bloody and may contain mucus, resembling dysentery.
- Pathophysiology: The parasite invades the intestinal mucosa, leading to ulceration and inflammation. This results in diarrhea and dysentery.
- Location: Primarily occurs in the intestines.
Extraintestinal Amoebiasis:
- Definition: This refers to complications of Entamoeba histolytica infection that occur outside the intestines, including organs such as the liver, lungs, and brain.
- Symptoms: Symptoms vary depending on the affected organ. For instance, amoebic liver abscess (the most common extraintestinal complication) may cause fever, right upper quadrant pain, and malaise. Other complications may be more severe and can include respiratory problems if the lungs are involved or neurological symptoms if the brain is affected.
- Pathophysiology: The parasite can spread through the bloodstream from the intestines to other organs, leading to abscesses or localized infections.
- Location: Involves organs and systems outside the gastrointestinal tract.
Summary:
In summary, amoebic dysentery is primarily an intestinal infection characterized by severe diarrhea and symptoms directly related to intestinal inflammation, while extraintestinal amoebiasis involves systemic spread of the parasite to other organs, causing various complications. Both conditions represent different aspects of infection by the same parasite, with their diagnosis and treatment focusing on their specific manifestations.