Amoebic encephalitis

Amoebic encephalitis

Amoebic encephalitis is a form of encephalitis caused by various genera of acanthamoeba. It is a progressive form of acanthamoebiasis. Mostly immunocompromised persons are affected.


  • What is the route of infection and what symptoms do I get?

    Acanthamoebae have been detected worldwide in water, soil and air. Infection usually occurs through inhalation or contact (of a wound) with contaminated air or water. The amoebae then spread throughout the organism via the bloodstream and finally reach the brain. The incubation period is several weeks to months.

    Amoebic encephalitis can cause the following symptoms:

    • Headache
    • Fatigue
    • Confusion
    • Nausea (sickness)
    • Vomiting
    • Somnolence (drowsiness)
    • Seizures
    • Neurological deficits, e.g. hemiparesis