Amoebic Meningoencephalitis- A Review in the Context of Aggravating Case Incidences in Kerala, India
Abstract
Amoebic meningoencephalitis (AME), a rare yet deadly infection of the central nervous system, is caused by free-living amoebae found in soil and warmer freshwater bodies such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and swimming pools. The infection manifests in two forms: primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE). PAM is typically caused by Naegleria fowleri, and GAE is primarily caused by Acanthamoeba species and Balamuthia mandrillaris, and occasionally by Sappinia pedate. Since 1962, a total of 488 PAM cases have been reported globally. Between 2016 and April 2026, about 345 cases of AME were reported in Kerala, resulting in 82 deaths. The data reveal an alarming recent spike; 2025 alone accounted for over 58 % of all cases and 57% of the fatalities reported during the period under review. The unique agent, environmental, host and medical factors contributing to the near-epidemic rise in AME infection in Kerala have been discussed. Necessary primary and secondary measures essential for prevention and control of AME have also been dealt with in this brief review.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202638
How to cite this article: Rajendran R, Regu K, Sasi M S, Sharma S N. Amoebic Meningoencephalitis - A Review in the Context of Aggravating Case Incidences in Kerala, India. J Commun Dis. 2026;58(2):129-136.
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