Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)

Topic: Diseases

Why in the news?

• A four-year-old child has recovered from primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in Kerala.
• The boy was admitted to hospital with severe fever, headache, and other symptoms. 
• Initial tests showed symptoms of encephalitis and the examination of his cerebrospinal fluid primarily confirmed the presence of Naegleria fowleri, the infection-causing amoeba. 

Source: The Hindu 

About Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM):

• It is caused by Naegleria fowleri, free-living amoebae in warm, stagnant freshwater and has a high mortality rate (>97%).
• It is known as the brain-eating amoeba as it infects the brain through the nasal passages, leading to severe brain tissue destruction.
• Children are particularly vulnerable, though PAM does not spread from person to person or through swallowing contaminated water.
• Its symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. 
• Its diagnosis is challenging and often mistaken for bacterial meningitis.
• It is an infection of the meninges, which is the protective covering for the brain and spinal cord resulting in inflammation. 

• It is a serious and life-threatening condition.
• Early diagnosis and timely initiation of an antimicrobial cocktail are crucial. The optimal drug regimen is still uncertain, and treatment involves a multidisciplinary team.
• Its preventive measures include avoiding exposure to stagnant freshwater, using nose plugs, and ensuring proper chlorination and maintenance of swimming pools.