Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis by <i>Naegleria fowleri</i>: Pathogenesis and Treatments

<i>Naegleria fowleri</i> is a free-living amoeba (FLA) that is commonly known as the “brain-eating amoeba.” This parasite can invade the central nervous system (CNS), causing an acute and fulminating infection known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). Even though PAM is charact...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Andrea Güémez, Elisa García
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2021-09-01
Series:Biomolecules
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/11/9/1320
Description
Summary:<i>Naegleria fowleri</i> is a free-living amoeba (FLA) that is commonly known as the “brain-eating amoeba.” This parasite can invade the central nervous system (CNS), causing an acute and fulminating infection known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). Even though PAM is characterized by low morbidity, it has shown a mortality rate of 98%, usually causing death in less than two weeks after the initial exposure. This review summarizes the most recent information about <i>N. fowleri</i>, its pathogenic molecular mechanisms, and the neuropathological processes implicated. Additionally, this review includes the main therapeutic strategies described in case reports and preclinical studies, including the possible use of immunomodulatory agents to decrease neurological damage.
ISSN:2218-273X