List of Protozoan Diseases in Humans & Their Signs/Symptoms

There are millions of microorganisms in the world that are invisible to the naked eye. These organisms can easily enter the human body and cause severe health issues.

One such group of multicellular microorganisms is called protozoa that can infect the organs and cause organ failure, fever, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, abdominal pain, and cough.

Keep reading to learn about the diseases caused by protozoa and their treatment methods.

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What are Protozoa Diseases?
Causes of Protozoa Diseases
List of Protozoa Diseases
Signs and Symptoms
Damages Caused by Protozoa
Associated Risk Factors
Diagnostic Tests
Treatment Methods
Preventive Measures
Does Health Insurance Cover Protozoan Diseases?
Frequently Asked Questions

What are Protozoa Diseases?

Protozoa diseases refer to an aggregate of diseases caused by protozoa, single-celled organisms that cannot be readily seen with the naked eye. These microorganisms usually enter bodies via contaminated foods, water, or insect bites. The popular protozoa illnesses involve malaria transmitted by mosquitoes and amoebiasis associated with the intake of unclean water.

Although these ailments can make you sick, the severity depends mainly on the type of protozoa and overall health. The good news is that they can be cured with specific drugs.

What are the Causes of Protozoa Diseases?

Most protozoal disorders in humans can be caused by microscopic protozoa entering the body through water pollutants or mosquito bites. The protozoa infect various organs, causing complicated health issues.

Protozoa exist either symbiotically or independently with other living things. Protozoans often form cysts, which enable them to survive harsh conditions like drought. A lot of protozoa can lead to diseases among people, particularly by way of water-borne routes.

Toxoplasma gondii, Isospora belli, Blastocystis hominis, Balantidium coli, Naegleria species, and Acanthamoeba species are some examples of critical pathogenic protozoans. Various diseases emanating from the above organisms may profoundly impact the overall condition of the patient's health.

What Are the Types of Diseases Caused by Protozoa in Humans?

Here is a list of 10 diseases caused by Protozoa commonly found in humans.

1. Malaria

Malaria is a mosquito-borne infection that can cause seizures, yellow skin, coma and death. It occurs when a female Anopheles mosquito carries the protozoa and infects a human being by biting. This serious disease requires immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications and ensure effective treatment.

2. Amoebiasis

Poor hygiene and living conditions can lead to this gastrointestinal infection. Amoebiasis is caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica and can result in symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and, in severe cases, liver abscesses. Proper sanitation is crucial for preventing Amoebiasis.

3. Chagas disease

The Trypanosoma cruzi parasite causes this disease, leading to redness and swelling in the infected area. Other symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, nausea, diarrhoea, and extreme fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of chronic complications and ensure effective disease management.

4. Babesiosis

Parasite Babesia microti infects the red blood cells and damages an individual's immune system. This disease, transmitted by ticks, can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue. It is essential to seek prompt treatment to manage the condition and mitigate potential complications effectively.

5. Giardiasis

The parasite giardia causes this infection in the intestinal tract. Giardiasis is spread through contaminated water or food, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and nausea. Access to clean drinking water and good hygiene are crucial for preventing giardiasis. Treatment involves prescription medications like metronidazole or tinidazole.

6. Lambliasis

Giardia lamblia, a parasite of the small intestine, causes lambliasis. The protozoa are transmitted through contaminated drinking water or food. This infection can cause gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Good hygiene and safe food practices help in preventing it. Antibiotic treatments like metronidazole or tinidazole eliminate Giardia lamblia.

7. Cryptosporidiosis

Apicomplexan protozoan, a member of the Cryptosporidium genus, causes this disease. It can infect the lungs and stomach. Symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Maintaining good hygiene practices and avoiding contaminated water are essential for preventing this infection.

8. Trichomoniasis

It is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Trichomoniasis Vaginalis. Both men and women may experience burning and itching in the affected areas. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to effectively manage the symptoms and prevent further transmission of the infection. Regular screening and practising safe sex can help reduce the risk.

9. Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis infects the eye, brain and lymph nodes causing significant infections.Toxoplasmosis infects the eye, brain, and lymph nodes, causing significant infections. The parasite Toxoplasma gondii can lead to serious health issues, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the infection effectively and preventing severe complications.

10. Blastocystis

It is an asymptomatic disease caused by protozoan Blastocystis hominis that infects the digestive tract. While often asymptomatic, it can sometimes cause gastrointestinal disturbances. Good hygiene and medical consultation can assist in managing this condition. Treatment is recommended if symptoms are present or if the infection is causing significant discomfort.

Other diseases caused by Protozoa include -

African Trypanosomiasis

Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense cause African Trypanosomiasis in humans. The protozoa spread through the Tsetse fly bites.

Amoebic dysentery

Entamoeba histolytica leads to diarrhoea and gut problems. This Amoeba can pass through the intestine walls and reach an individual’s bloodstream and infect his/her liver.

Once the types of protozoa-borne diseases are clear, let’s check the symptoms of protozoa infection to keep a tab over the bodily changes.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Diseases Caused by Protozoa?

The signs of protozoan infections vary across the types of single-celled parasites causing infections and the organ they attack and manifest in.

However, some of the common symptoms include -

Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Cough
Diarrhoea
Swollen lymph nodes
Weight loss
Nausea and extreme fatigue.

Certain parasitic infections can be asymptomatic, which can cause major issues in future. Hence, it is essential to consult a doctor and practice regular body checkups.

What Are the Damages Caused by Protozoa in Humans?

Ignoring protozoa-borne diseases can cause significant damage to the body. Some of the harmful effects of Protozoa infections are as follows -

Patients with African sleeping disease can develop severe skin rash and neurological problems.
Ignoring symptoms of Malaria or treatment procedures can lead to significant harm. A patient can suffer convulsions, organ failure and issues in the circulatory system.
Babesiosis can be life-threatening for patients with weak immune systems.
The parasites can infect the brain, lungs and stomach.
Sexually transmitted parasites can lead to smelly and white discharge from the reproductive organs.

Besides, it is also essential to know the risk factor linked with the said disease. This way, individuals prone to protozoa-borne disease can consult a doctor beforehand for prevention and treatment.

What Are the Risk Factors Associated With Diseases Caused by Protozoa?

Individuals should know that multiple factors can lead to protozoa infections in humans. For instance, food choices or environmental conditions can lead to protozoan diseases.

The common risk factors include-

Aged individuals are prone to protozoan infection due to poor immunity
Unprotected intercourse
Poor sanitation
Unclean water consumption
Lack of hygiene
Eating uncooked or raw food
Poor immunity system
Contact with animals
Individuals who live in tropical or subtropical or regularly travels to these regions
Seasonal changes

An earlier diagnosis can help individuals understand the causes of protozoa-borne and receive appropriate treatment.

How is Protozoa Disease Diagnosed?

Protozoa are quite challenging to identify with samples and culture. Pathologists can see them under a microscope by taking a sample of red blood cells or stool.

There are specific tests for the parasite that has infected the body. Some of the diagnostic procedures are -

Diagnostic Test	Description
Antibody Blood Tests	Used to detect the presence of antibodies in the blood, indicating past exposure to an infection or immune response to a pathogen.
PCR Test	Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test identifies the genetic material of a virus or pathogen, making it highly accurate for detecting infections.
Stains of Tissue	Special stains are applied to tissue samples to highlight specific structures, cells, or organisms, aiding in the diagnosis of diseases.
Direct Isolation of a Pathogen	Involves culturing a sample to isolate and identify the specific pathogen causing an infection.
Multiple Stool Samples	Collecting and analysing multiple stool samples helps detect gastrointestinal infections, parasites, or other digestive disorders.
Antibody Test of the Blood	Similar to antibody blood tests, this checks for the presence of specific antibodies that indicate a current or past infection.
Biopsy of a Lymph Node	A sample of lymph node tissue is taken and examined under a microscope to diagnose conditions like cancer or infections affecting the lymphatic system.
Blood Tests	General blood tests assess various parameters like red and white blood cell counts, electrolytes, and markers of infection or inflammation.
Endoscopy or Colonoscopy	These procedures involve inserting a camera into the digestive tract to inspect for abnormalities, inflammation, or tumours visually.

Let’s check the treatment methods healthcare professionals suggest for the disease.

What Are the Treatment Methods for Protozoa Disease?

he treatment procedure depends on the type of protozoa that has caused the infection.

However, here are some standard treatment processes that doctors suggest to treat protozoa-borne diseases.

A doctor would recommend antimalarial drugs like quinine, chloroquine and mefloquine to fight Malaria.
They can prescribe metronidazole or tinidazole for amoebiasis. They suggest taking suramin, pentamidine and nifurtimox to cure African sleeping diseases.
Treatment also depends on the drug resistance of protozoa and its impact.

The recovery period of most protozoan diseases depends on the patient's immunity. It can take up to two weeks to recover entirely without medications in some instances.

Individuals can also opt for preventive measures to avoid protozoa infection.

What Are the Preventive Measures to Control Diseases Caused by Protozoa?

There are several steps to lower risk of contracting a parasitic infection. Some of these are as follows -

Individuals should avoid touching cat litter and faeces during pregnancy.
Avoid drinking water from ponds, streams or lakes.
Eat only cooked food.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming.
Boil and filter water before drinking.
Use a condom during intercourse.
Wash hands regularly.
Clean car handles and public properties before touching them.

Does Health Insurance Cover Protozoan Diseases?

Most health insurance plans cover Protozoa Diseases. These conditions, like Malaria and Amoebiasis, are handled like any other illness. Usually, a health policy covers doctor visits, lab studies, drugs, and hospitalisation charges associated with treating protozoa-related diseases.

However, it is essential to look over your plan’s details, as they may differ depending on your policy.

The above discussion on diseases caused by protozoa and their treatment procedure will help you understand this concept. Individuals should consult a doctor when symptoms of protozoa infection occur. They can check the list of protozoan diseases and consult a doctor for detailed information on their infection.

FAQs about Diseases Caused by Protozoa

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Do protozoan diseases spread from the soil?

Yes, protozoa live in the soil and can infect human beings and cause significant harm to organs.

Name some diseases caused by protozoa in the human intestine?

Diseases caused by protozoa in individuals’ intestines include Giardiasis, amoebiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and cyclosporiasis.

What are protozoa?

Protozoa are microscopic, single-celled organisms that can live in various environments, including water, soil, and inside other organisms. They can cause diseases in humans and animals.

What are the types of protozoa?

Protozoa are classified into four main types based on their movement: Amoeboids (e.g., Amoeba), Flagellates (e.g., Giardia), Ciliates (e.g., Paramecium), and Sporozoans (e.g., Plasmodium).

What are diseases caused by protozoa?

Diseases caused by protozoa include malaria, amoebiasis, giardiasis, leishmaniasis, and sleeping sickness.

What are some water-borne protozoan diseases?

Water-borne protozoan diseases include giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and amoebiasis, typically contracted through contaminated water.

What causes encephalitis?

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by viral infections, but it can also be caused by bacterial, fungal, or protozoan infections and autoimmune reactions.

What are fungal and bacterial diseases?

Fungal diseases are infections caused by fungi, such as athlete's foot and candidiasis. Bacteria cause bacterial diseases, including tuberculosis, strep throat, and urinary tract infections.

What kind of protozoa causes sleeping sickness?

Sleeping sickness, or African trypanosomiasis, is caused by protozoa of the species Trypanosoma brucei, transmitted through the bite of the tsetse fly.

What are the symptoms of a protozoan disease?

Symptoms of protozoan diseases vary but can include fever, diarrhoea, fatigue, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, organ damage.

What is the immune response to protozoans?

The immune response to protozoans involves activating white blood cells that recognise and attack the protozoa and produce antibodies to help fight the infection.

How do protozoa affect the body?

Protozoa can infect various organs, causing symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe disease. They can multiply within the host, damaging tissues and disrupting normal bodily functions.

Do protozoa cause dengue?

No, dengue is caused by the dengue virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, not by protozoa.

What does protozoa do to the human body?

Protozoa can invade and multiply within human cells, leading to infections that can damage tissues and organs, cause inflammation, and disrupt normal bodily functions.

What are protozoan diseases, and how are they caused?

Protozoan diseases are illnesses caused by protozoa entering the body through contaminated food, water, insect bites, or direct contact with infected individuals or animals.

Is malaria exclusively caused by protozoa?

Yes, malaria is exclusively caused by protozoa of the Plasmodium genus, transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.

What are the 5 examples of protozoa?

Five examples of protozoa include Amoeba, Giardia, Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, and Paramecium.