Kerala’s Public Health Lab Develops Molecular Test Kits for Deadly Amoeba

In a major breakthrough in infectious disease diagnostics, the State Public Health Laboratory in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has successfully developed molecular diagnostic test kits to detect five species of free-living amoeba (FLA) known to cause amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare but highly fatal brain infection. For the first time, the lab identified Acanthamoeba spp. in a human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample, marking a critical step in early diagnosis and targeted treatment of this life-threatening condition.

Why in News?

The State Public Health Laboratory in Kerala has developed PCR-based molecular tests for five dangerous species of amoeba. For the first time, a confirmatory diag nosis of Acanthamoeba spp. was made in a human sample, enabling prompt and precise treatment.Kerala had earlier depended on national labs like PGI Chandigarh for such confirmation.

What Has Been Achieved?

Development of molecular diagnostic (PCR) test kits to identify.

  • Naegleria fowleri
  • Acanthamoeba spp.
  • Vermamoeba vermiformis
  • Balamuthia mandrillaris
  • Paravahlkampfia francinae
  • These are among the six known pathogenic amoeba species out of 400+ free-living types.

Importance of the Breakthrough

  • The first-ever human sample diagnosis of Acanthamoeba spp. was confirmed using the in-house kit.
  • Enables early detection, targeted drug therapy, and significantly improves survival chances.

Why It Matters for Kerala

  • Frequent reports of amoebic encephalitis prompted the State directive to test all Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) samples for amoebic pathogens.
  • Till now, samples had to be sent to labs outside Kerala, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
  • The new capability reduces turnaround time and improves treatment precision.

Clinical and Public Health Impact

  • Previously, diagnosis was only presumptive based on CSF microscopy, leading to empirical treatment.
  • With confirmatory PCR, doctors can optimize drug regimens.
  • If Naegleria fowleri is detected, environmental testing of waterbodies becomes essential to issue public warnings.

Expert Insight

  • Dr. R. Aravind, Govt. Medical College: “Now we can skip presumptive therapy and begin targeted treatment without delay.”
  • Dr. S. Sunija, Director, PH Lab: “A proud moment… we no longer rely on outside labs for confirmation.”
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Kerala’s Public Health Lab Develops Molecular Test Kits for Deadly Amoeba
Developed by State Public Health Laboratory, Kerala
Location Thiruvananthapuram
Diagnostic Tool PCR-based Molecular Diagnostic Test Kits
Pathogens Detected 5 Amoebic species incl. Naegleria fowleri and Acanthamoeba spp.
First Confirmed Human Sample Acanthamoeba spp. in CSF of AES patient

Shivam

Recent Posts

In Which State is Mouling National Park Located?

India has many beautiful national parks that help protect forests, animals and nature. These parks…

14 hours ago

Which Fort of Haryana is Known as the Threshold of Hindustan?

India is a land full of history, with many forts that tell stories of bravery,…

16 hours ago

Top-10 Countries with the Oldest Populations Based on Median Age, Check the List

As people around the world live longer and birth rates go down in many countries,…

17 hours ago

National Flag Day in India 2025: Commemorating the Adoption of the Tiranga

Every year on July 22, India observes National Flag Day, also known as Tiranga Adoption…

18 hours ago

List of Countries Starting with the Letter ‘J’, Know About Them

There are many countries in the world and each one has a unique name, culture…

18 hours ago

NABARD Celebrates 44 Years: Expanding Financial Inclusion

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) recently celebrated its 44th Foundation Day,…

18 hours ago