Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
 CDC Home Search Health Topics A-Z

Division of Parasitic Diseases
Parasitic Disease Information

Alphabetical Listing | Travel
DPD Logo

Home
Professional Info
Public Info

About DPD
Announcements
Recent Publications
DPD Search

 

Back Fact Sheet

Entamoeba polecki

What is Entamoeba polecki?

Entamoeba polecki (ENT-a-ME-ba po-leh-key) is a single-celled intestinal parasite. It is best known as a parasite of pigs and monkeys. It sometimes is found in the intestines or stool of other animals and people.

to top

In what parts of the world has Entamoeba polecki been found in people?

Two of the most common areas have been in Papua New Guinea and Southeast Asia. Occasional cases in other parts of the world have been reported.

to top

How do people get Entamoeba polecki?

By swallowing the parasite. This could happen in various ways. But we don’t know which ways are the most common. For example, some people who have E. polecki had direct contact with animals, such as pigs, whereas other people did not. In general, we think people can get E. polecki by either:

  • ingesting food/water contaminated (tainted) with stool from an animal/person shedding E. polecki; or
  • bringing to their mouths something, such as a finger, that touched contaminated stool (or touched an object/surface that was contaminated with stool).

to top

How common is Entamoeba polecki in people?

We don’t know. But we think it’s rare.

to top

Where is Entamoeba polecki found in the human body?

Only in the intestines (bowels). It does not spread to other parts of the body.

to top

How is Entamoeba polecki detected in people?

By looking at stool samples under a microscope. Sometimes it’s a good idea to have an expert confirm the diagnosis. Other types of parasites, cells, and even debris may be mistaken for E. polecki.

to top

Can Entamoeba polecki cause intestinal (bowel) symptoms?

We’re not sure.

In most people, E. polecki probably is a harmless intestinal parasite. People who have E. polecki typically either feel fine — or — have some symptoms (such as loose stools or stomach cramps) that are caused by something else.

But we don’t know enough about E. polecki (or about related parasites/strains) to exclude the possibility that its presence in the intestines might make some people feel sick. Even so, it’s always a good idea to make sure that other possible causes of the symptoms aren’t missed.

to top

What should I do if I have Entamoeba polecki and no other cause for my intestinal symptoms has been found?

You should discuss your situation with your health care provider. People who have E. polecki usually do not need treatment. However — depending on your circumstances — your health care provider might decide to prescribe medication, to see if your symptoms go away.

to top

This fact sheet is for information only and is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a health care provider. If you have any questions about the parasite described above or think that you may have a parasitic infection, consult a health care provider.

Back

 

Top

Home | Professional Info | Public Info  
  About DPD | Recent Publications | DPD Search

CDC Home | CDC Search | CDC Health Topics A-Z

This page last reviewed September 14, 2008

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne, and Enteric Diseases
Division of Parasitic Diseases