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Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, also known as PAM, is a fatal disease caused by Naegleria fowleri – a microscopic amoeba – also known as brain-eating amoeba. The brain-eating amoeba is currently rampant in the state of Kerala. Usually, it enters the body and severely affects the brain. Freshwater environments like lakes, hot springs and rivers make comfortable places for such amoeba to thrive. Recently a 14-year-old teenager from Kozhikode district – Afnan Jasim – survived PAM – he is one of the eleven people in the world who have fought this deadly disease.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sheetal Goyal, neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, spoke about the survival rate of PAM – “The survival rate for the infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, is extremely low. The condition caused by the infection, primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), has a mortality rate of over 97%. Most cases are diagnosed when the disease is quite advanced, and early symptoms often mimic those of more common illnesses, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.”
Also read: What is the brain-eating amoeba that killed a teenager in Kerala? Know how to stay safe, early signs and preventive measures
Early diagnosis:
Early identification of PAM is very important. The sooner the disease is detected, the greater the chances of survival, as treatment can begin sooner.
Early treatment:
Immediate administration of a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone, may improve the chances of survival. Although the efficacy of these treatments remains uncertain, they have shown some success in previous cases.
Also read: Brain-eating amoeba: Know about the rare disease that took the life of a Kerala boy
Access to medical care:
Access to advanced medical facilities and intensive care units can significantly impact survival rates. Patients require close monitoring and supportive care to manage the severe inflammation and brain damage caused by the amoeba.
Age and health of the patient:
While PAM primarily affects children and young adults, the patient’s overall health and immune response can also play a role in determining outcomes. A strong immune system can help fight infections more effectively.
Also read: ‘Brain-eating amoeba’ Naegleria fowleri kills South Korean man. Check the symptoms
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