Opinion Article - International Journal of Pure and Applied Zoology (2023) Volume 11, Issue 5

PROTOZOAN PARASITES: FROM MALARIA TO AMOEBIC DYSENTERY

Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China

*Corresponding Author:

Junqiang Li
Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences
Henan University of Chinese Medicine
Zhengzhou, China
E-mail: Junqiangli@gmail.com

Received: 29-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. IJPAZ-23-112815; Editor assigned: 31-Aug-2023, PreQC No. IJPAZ-23-112815 (PQ); Reviewed: 08-Sep-2023, QC No. IJPAZ-23-112815; Revised: 20-Sep-2023, Manuscript No. IJPAZ-23-112815 (R); Published: 26-Sep-2023, DOI: 10.35841/2320-9585-11.5.198

Introduction

Protozoan parasites are a diverse group of single-celled microorganisms that can cause a wide range of diseases in humans and animals. These tiny organisms are incredibly adaptable and have evolved various strategies to survive and thrive within their hosts. We will delve into their life cycles, transmission, symptoms, treatment, and the ongoing efforts to combat these diseases. Protozoan parasites: An overview- Protozoan parasite belongs to the phylum protozoa, a group of eukaryotic microorganisms characterized by their singlecelled structure and diverse modes of locomotion. While many protozoans are free-living and harmless, some have evolved to be parasitic, causing various diseases in their host organisms, including humans. These parasites can infect a wide range of host species, including humans, animals, and even other microorganisms. They have developed intricate life cycles that often involve multiple stages and hosts, allowing them to adapt to different environmental conditions and host immune responses [1].

Malaria: the deadly mosquito-borne disease- One of the most infamous protozoan parasites is plasmodium, the causative agent of malaria. Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease that has plagued humanity for centuries and continues to be a major global health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. There are several species of plasmodium that can infect humans, with plasmodium falciparum being the most deadly. Transmission: Malaria is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female anopheles mosquitoes. When an infected mosquito bites a person, it injects sporozoites (a stage of the plasmodium parasite) into the bloodstream. These sporozoites then travel to the liver, where they multiply and mature into merozoites. Life cycle: Once matured, merozoites are released from the liver and enter the bloodstream, where they invade red blood cells. Inside the red blood cells, they multiply, causing the cells to rupture and release more merozoites. This cycle of invasion, multiplication, and rupture leads to the characteristic symptoms of malaria, including fever, anemia, and organ damage [2].

Symptoms: Malaria symptoms can range from mild to severe, with severe cases often leading to death. Symptoms include high fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, muscle aches, and vomiting. Treatment- The treatment of malaria typically involves antimalarial medications, such as chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapies (acts), and others, depending on the type and drug resistance patterns of the plasmodium species in a particular region. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and death. Prevention: Preventing malaria includes measures like using insecticidetreated bed nets, wearing protective clothing, and using insect repellents to reduce mosquito bites. Additionally, efforts to control mosquito populations and develop a malaria vaccine are ongoing. Amoebic dysentery: an intestinal menace- Amoebic dysentery, also known as amoebiasis, is caused by the protozoan parasite entamoeba histolytica. This disease primarily affects the intestine and can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms [3].

Transmission: Amoebic dysentery is typically transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water containing cysts of the parasite. These cysts can survive outside the host for extended periods and are resistant to environmental stressors. Life cycle- Once ingested, the cysts of entamoeba histolytica excyst in the host's intestine, releasing trophozoites. These trophozoites can invade the intestinal mucosa, causing tissue damage and inflammation. Some trophozoites can also form cysts, which are excreted in the host's feces, contributing to the spread of the disease. Symptoms: The symptoms of amoebic dysentery can range from mild diarrhea to severe, bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. In some cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestines to other organs, such as the liver and lungs, leading to more serious complications [4].

Treatment- Amoebic dysentery is typically treated with medications such as metronidazole or tinidazole to eliminate the parasite. In severe cases, additional treatments may be necessary, and complications like liver abscesses may require drainage or surgery. Prevention: Preventing amoebic dysentery involves practicing good hygiene, including washing hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, and avoiding the consumption of untreated water or uncooked food in regions where the disease is prevalent. Challenges in parasite control- Controlling protozoan parasites like those responsible for malaria and amoebic dysentery presents several challenges: Drug resistance: protozoan parasites can develop resistance to antiparasitic drugs over time, making treatment less effective. Continuous research is required to develop new drugs and treatment strategies. Vector control: in the case of malaria, controlling the mosquito vector is essential for reducing transmission. This involves the use of insecticides, mosquito nets, and environmental management [5].

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