Acanthamoeba is a type of parasite that can rarely cause serious infections of the eye, skin, and central nervous system. The amoeba is found worldwide in water and soil. Most people are exposed to this organism during their lifetime, but very few people actually develop symptoms of an infection. A widespread infection is rare but can occur in people with weakened immune systems.
Signs and symptoms, when they occur, depend on the site of infection. Associated symptoms and signs of Acanthamoeba keratitis can include
- eye pain,
- eye redness,
- blurred vision,
- sensitivity to light,
- a sensation of something in the eye, or
- excessive tearing.
Infections of the brain may lead to
- headaches,
- stiff neck,
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- tiredness,
- confusion,
- lack of attention to people and surroundings,
- loss of balance and bodily control,
- seizures, or
- hallucinations.
Cause of an Acanthamoeba Infection
The Acanthamoeba parasite causes this infection.
Other acanthamoeba infection symptoms and signs
- Blurred Vision
- Confusion
- Excessive Tearing
- Eye Pain
- Eye Redness
- Hallucinations
- Headaches
- Lack of Attention to People and Surroundings
- Loss of Balance and Bodily Control
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Sensation of Something in the Eye
- Sensitivity to Light
- Stiff Neck
- Tiredness
- Vomiting
Main Article on Acanthamoeba Infection Symptoms and Signs
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