What is primary amebic meningoencephalitis ?
The periodic law in chemistry states that the physical and chemical properties of elements are periodic functions of their atomic numbers. This means that when elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number, elements with similar properties recur at regular intervals or periods. The lawRead more
The periodic law in chemistry states that the physical and chemical properties of elements are periodic functions of their atomic numbers. This means that when elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number, elements with similar properties recur at regular intervals or periods.
The law forms the basis of the modern periodic table, where elements are organized into rows (periods) and columns (groups) based on their atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. Elements within the same group typically share similar chemical behaviors due to having the same number of valence electrons.
The periodic law was first proposed by Dmitri Mendeleev, who initially arranged elements by atomic mass, but later modifications to use atomic number by Henry Moseley solidified the law’s foundation. This organization allows scientists to predict the properties of undiscovered elements and understand the relationships between existing ones, making the periodic law a cornerstone of modern chemistry.
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Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare, usually fatal brain infection caused by the amoeba Naegleria fowleri. This free-living amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, and hot springs, as well as in poorly maintained pools or contaminated water supplieRead more
Primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare, usually fatal brain infection caused by the amoeba Naegleria fowleri. This free-living amoeba is commonly found in warm freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, and hot springs, as well as in poorly maintained pools or contaminated water supplies.
PAM occurs when the amoeba enters the body through the nose, typically during activities like swimming or diving. From there, it travels to the brain, causing severe inflammation of the brain and its surrounding membranes (meningoencephalitis). Symptoms usually start within 1–9 days and include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, and coma. The infection progresses rapidly, often leading to death within days if untreated.
Diagnosis is challenging and typically involves detecting the amoeba in cerebrospinal fluid or brain tissue, often confirmed posthumously. Treatment is difficult due to the rapid progression and limited effective drugs, but regimens may include antifungal and antimicrobial agents like amphotericin B, miltefosine, and others, with supportive care. Survival is rare, with only a few documented cases globally.
Prevention focuses on avoiding exposure: using nose clips while swimming in warm freshwater, ensuring proper pool maintenance, and avoiding untreated water for nasal irrigation. The CDC and WHO emphasize that PAM is not contagious and cannot be contracted from drinking contaminated water.
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