Naegleria fowleri is a thermophilic (heat-loving) protozoan that is commonly found in warm freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It's a free-living amoeba that goes through three stages in its life cycle: trophozoite, flagellate, and cyst. The trophozoite stage is the vegetative and reproductive phase of the life cycle, in which the amoeba undergoes binary fission. The flagellate stage is a temporary, non-feeding and non-reproductive stage that lasts for about 24 hours and is more mobile than the trophozoite. The cyst stage is an environmentally resistant form that can survive harsh conditions, such as nutrient depletion, cold or dryness. The cyst is also more resistant to higher temperatures and can survive at around 45.8°C.
Naegleria fowleri is able to reproduce in temperatures up to 45.8°C. While the amoebae may not be able to grow, it is still able to survive at higher temperatures (50-65°C) for short periods of time. Naegleria is relatively sensitive to environmental changes and external environmental factors such as extreme pH, aridity, and salinity, which is why it is absent in seawater. The cysts are more environmentally hardy and are resistant to higher temperatures as well as to cold conditions, although they seem to be sensitive to freezing. The heat tolerance of this protozoan is advantageous in adapting to mammalian body temperature. In general, N. fowleri survives in freshwater environments by feeding on bacteria. However, on rare occasions, cysts and trophozoites can enter the nasal cavity of a human during water activities such as swimming and soaking in thermal springs.
N. fowleri is the only known species of Naegleria that infects humans. The cysts and trophozoites can enter the nasal cavity and travel to the central nervous system (CNS) via the olfactory nerves, where it causes a deadly infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). Symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, changes in smell and taste, and death often occurs within one week after the first symptoms occurred. There are only a few known survivors of this fast-developing infection. To protect yourself from Naegleria fowleri infection, it is important to have your water systems tested by a professional and conduct regular testing to detect and prevent potential health hazards.
At our lab, we offer Naegleria testing services to detect the presence of the thermophilic protozoan in water systems. Our team of experts use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to accurately and reliably identify the presence of N. fowleri in water samples. We understand the potential health hazards that this amoeba can cause and are committed to providing our clients with the necessary information to ensure the safety of their water supply. Our testing services can help identify any potential risk factors and assist in preventing the spread of this deadly infection. Contact us today to schedule a Naegleria test for your water system and ensure the safety and well-being of those who rely on it.
