DOI: 10.36347/sajb.2014.v02i11.005

Pages: 762-767

This study emphasised the importance of distinguishing the two species of amoebiasis for accurate treatment and management. Molecular techniques for differentiation of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar is significant in the management and treatment of amoebiasis. Many studies have claimed that the two species are morphologically identical, but genetically different. This study, therefore, was carried out to test whether these two species are different using a molecular technique. In the study, 169 faecal specimens were collected from patients seeking medical services, and showing symptoms of amoebiasis in Naivasha District (County Referral) Hospital Kenya. The results showed that out of 169 stool samples, 36 (21.3%) had E. histolytica/ dispar complex by microscopic examination. Consequently, multiplex-PCR detected 6 (16.7%) samples positive for E. histolytica and 27 (75%) samples for E. dispar. Two (1.5%) of the E. histolytica positive samples and seven (5.3%) of the E. dispar positive samples were among negative samples not detected by microscopic examination. The results show that Multiplex PCR is more sensitive that microscopy and therefore can adequately be used to identify and distinguish between the two species. The study recommends that the ministry of health adopt the use of multiplex PCR for detecting amoebiasis and differentiating the species before any treatment is prescribed for patients.