Amoebic colitis: A case series of a recurring missed diagnosis.

Abstract

Entamoeba histolytica, a pathogenic protozoan that causes amoebiasis, remains the second leading cause of death from parasitic infections worldwide. We present a case series of patients presenting to metropolitan tertiary gastroenterology units in Melbourne, Australia, highlighting the complexities of diagnosing amoebic colitis and the potential for misdiagnosis. These cases illustrate four key lessons in the identification of amoebic colitis: (i) obtaining a thorough travel and exposure history, (ii) having a high index of suspicion, (iii) understanding the limitations of available investigations, and (iv) being aware that amoebic colitis may masquerade as other common conditions.Copyright © 2020 The Authors. JGH Open: An open access journal of gastroenterology and hepatology published by Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.