Intestinal infections: how is Dientamoeba fragilis infection contracted?

By Cristiano Antonino On Feb 28, 2022

Dientamoeba fragilis is a parasite commonly found in the human intestine. The way in which this parasite causes infection is not yet clear

As Dientamoeba fragilis develops in the intestine, it is very likely that transmission of the parasite occurs via the faecal-oral route

This means that infection can occur if you bring something to your mouth after touching the faeces of an infected person or if you ingest water and/or food contaminated with the parasite.

Some basic hygiene rules help prevent infection, including:

washing your hands after using the toilet and after handling nappies and, in any case, before eating;
avoiding eating food or water that may be contaminated by sewage;
wash and peel fruit and vegetables if consumed raw
avoid drinking unboiled tap water when travelling in countries where the water supply may be dangerous.

Symptoms and diseases associated with Dientamoeba fragilis

Many people harbour Dientamoeba fragilis in their intestines without experiencing any symptoms. Where symptoms do occur, the most common are

loss of stools
diarrhoea
abdominal pain

Other symptoms reported are

weight loss
loss of appetite
nausea
tiredness

What is Dientamoeba fragilis infection?

Dientamoeba fragilis is a parasite commonly found in the human intestine.

It is increasingly recognised as a parasite capable of causing disease in humans (although many people have their intestines colonised by this parasite without showing any symptoms).

Of the amoebae known today, it is one of the smallest, is not very mobile and does not produce cysts.