Dientamoeba fragilis

What is dientamoeba fragilis?

Dientamoeba fragilis is a parasite that lives in the large intestine of humans. Infection occurs worldwide.

What are the symptoms of infection with dientamoeba fragilis?

Loose stools, diarrhea and abdominal cramping are the most common symptoms. Weight loss, loss of appetite, abdominal tenderness, and fatigue have also been reported among people who have D. fragilis. Many people have no symptoms at all.

What should I do if I think I have the parasite dientamoeba fragilis?

See your health care provider.

How is infection with dientamoeba fragilis diagnosed?

Your health care provider will ask you to provide stool samples for testing. Diagnosis may be difficult, so you may be asked to submit more than one sample. You may also be tested for pinworm eggs, which are commonly (but not always) found in persons infected with D. fragilis.

Is medication available to treat infection with dientamoeba fragilis?

Yes. Safe and effective drugs are available.

I have been sick and have recently been diagnosed with dientamoeba fragilis. Should I be treated?

Yes.

Who is at greater risk for infection?

Anyone can become infected with this parasite; however, the risk for infection might be higher for people who live in or travel to settings with poor sanitary conditions or who have weak immune systems.

How did I get dientamoeba fragilis?

The parasite is fragile and cannot live very long in the environment outside of the human intestines. The infection might be acquired by:

1. By touching and bringing to your mouth anything (ie. fingers) that has touched the stool of a person infected with D. fragilis.
    

2. By swallowing something, such as water or food, contaminated with D. fragilis.
    

3. By touching and bringing to your mouth D. fragilis cysts (eggs) picked up from contaminated surfaces.
    

4. Accidentally swallowing pinworm eggs, which might protect this fragile parasite, and the eggs of other parasites.

How can I prevent dientamoeba fragilis?

• Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers and before preparing foods.
   

• Teach children the importance of washing hands to prevent infection.

Source: Centre for Disease Control (CDC), Department of Health & Human Services, 1998.