Acanthamoeba spp.: Neglected Protists in Veterinary Medicine.

PROPOSE: Acanthamoebaspp. are widespread free-living protists found in various natural and man-made habitats. At times, they can become parasitic, leading to conditions such as Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE), and systemic infections in humans and animals. In veterinary medicine, infections caused by Acanthamoeba spp. are frequently underdiagnosed, necessitating a high degree of clinical vigilance and laboratory technical skill for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS

This review aimed to provide an overview of documented natural infections in animals with Acanthamoeba spp. to enhance veterinary professionals' awareness of these organisms' potential risks.

RESULTS

This review records natural infections of animals with Acanthamoeba and its interaction with pathogenic bacteria, highlighting the importance of Acanthamoeba spp. in veterinary medicine.

CONCLUSION

Acanthamebiasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of systemic diseases, especially with neurologic involvement. Since this neglected infection can impact the lives and livelihoods of many animals, informing veterinarians and animal owners is necessary.