Amoebic Dysentery vs. Bacillary Dysentery — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 1, 2023
Amoebic Dysentery is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, leading to intestinal inflammation. Bacillary Dysentery is caused by bacteria, primarily Shigella species, resulting in a similar condition.
Difference Between Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery
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Key Differences
Amoebic Dysentery is an infectious disease primarily affecting the large intestine, caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica. Bacillary Dysentery, on the other hand, is caused by bacteria, predominantly the Shigella species. Both lead to inflammation of the intestines and severe diarrhea.
The mode of transmission for Amoebic Dysentery is usually through ingestion of contaminated water or food with the cyst stage of the amoeba. Bacillary Dysentery is typically spread via direct person-to-person contact or ingestion of food and water contaminated with fecal matter carrying the pathogenic bacteria.
The symptoms of Amoebic Dysentery include abdominal pain, diarrhea with or without blood, and fever. With Bacillary Dysentery, symptoms can be more acute, with sudden onset of high fever, abdominal cramps, and bloody diarrhea.
Treatment approaches differ. Amoebic Dysentery is often treated with antiprotozoal medications like metronidazole. Bacillary Dysentery, being bacterial in origin, is treated with antibiotics, depending on the sensitivity of the causative bacteria.
Prevention for both Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery involves maintaining proper sanitation and hygiene, boiling or treating drinking water, and being cautious with food and water sources in endemic areas.
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Comparison Chart
Causative Agent
Protozoan parasite (Entamoeba histolytica)
Bacteria (Shigella species)
Mode of Transmission
Contaminated water or food
Contaminated food, water, or person-to-person
Primary Symptoms
Bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever
Bloody diarrhea, high fever, abdominal cramps
Treatment
Antiprotozoal medications (e.g., metronidazole)
Antibiotics
Prevention
Sanitation, safe water, and food precautions
Sanitation, safe water, food, and hygiene
Compare with Definitions
Amoebic Dysentery
An inflammatory bowel disease resulting from the protozoan parasite.
The outbreak of Amoebic Dysentery in the region has led to heightened health concerns.
Bacillary Dysentery
Diarrheal disease resulting from pathogenic bacteria.
Proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce the spread of Bacillary Dysentery.
Amoebic Dysentery
A parasitic intestinal infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica.
She contracted Amoebic Dysentery after drinking contaminated water during her trip.
Bacillary Dysentery
Bowel disturbance marked by frequent bloody stools due to bacteria.
The school was temporarily closed due to an outbreak of Bacillary Dysentery among students.
Amoebic Dysentery
A condition marked by frequent bloody stools due to a specific amoeba.
One of the major health challenges in the region is the prevalence of Amoebic Dysentery.
Bacillary Dysentery
An acute intestinal infection leading to bloody diarrhea due to specific bacteria.
The sudden spike in Bacillary Dysentery cases prompted a health advisory in the city.
Amoebic Dysentery
Intestinal disturbance caused by amoebic infestation.
Healthcare professionals are on high alert due to multiple cases of Amoebic Dysentery.
Bacillary Dysentery
Condition characterized by abdominal cramps and severe dysentery from bacterial origin.
Travelers are advised to be cautious as there's a risk of Bacillary Dysentery in certain areas.
Amoebic Dysentery
Diarrheal illness triggered by a microscopic amoeba.
The doctor diagnosed her condition as Amoebic Dysentery based on her symptoms and travel history.
Bacillary Dysentery
A bacterial infection of the intestines primarily caused by Shigella species.
He fell ill with Bacillary Dysentery after consuming spoiled food.
Common Curiosities
How is Bacillary Dysentery transmitted?
Bacillary Dysentery is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water or direct person-to-person contact.
Are both Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery contagious?
Yes, both can spread from one person to another, especially in unsanitary conditions.
What is the main cause of Amoebic Dysentery?
Amoebic Dysentery is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
How is Amoebic Dysentery treated?
Amoebic Dysentery is usually treated with antiprotozoal medications like metronidazole.
Can Bacillary Dysentery recur after treatment?
Yes, if re-exposed to the causative bacteria, Bacillary Dysentery can recur.
Which is more common, Amoebic Dysentery or Bacillary Dysentery?
The prevalence varies by region, but Bacillary Dysentery tends to be more common in many areas.
Which type of dysentery has blood in stools, Amoebic Dysentery or Bacillary Dysentery?
Both Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery can result in bloody stools.
Are there vaccines for Bacillary Dysentery?
Currently, there isn't a widely available vaccine for Bacillary Dysentery, but research is ongoing.
Are Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery fatal?
If untreated, both can be severe and potentially fatal, especially in vulnerable populations.
How can I prevent Amoebic Dysentery during travel?
Avoid drinking untreated water, ensure food is cooked properly, and maintain personal hygiene to prevent Amoebic Dysentery.
What type of antibiotics are used for Bacillary Dysentery?
The specific antibiotic for Bacillary Dysentery depends on the bacterial strain, but some common ones include ciprofloxacin and azithromycin.
How long does it take to recover from Amoebic Dysentery?
With proper treatment, most individuals recover from Amoebic Dysentery within a few weeks.
Can animals get Amoebic Dysentery or Bacillary Dysentery?
While similar conditions exist in animals, the specific strains that cause human Amoebic and Bacillary Dysentery typically don't infect animals in the same way.
Is it necessary to see a doctor for both Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery?
Yes, if you suspect you have either Amoebic Dysentery or Bacillary Dysentery, it's essential to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Do both Amoebic Dysentery and Bacillary Dysentery cause dehydration?
Yes, both can lead to dehydration due to severe diarrhea.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
