Amebic (or amoebic) dysentery, which is also referred to as amebiasis or amoebiasis, is an inflammation of the intestine caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. The severe form of the malady is characterized by the formation of localized lesions, called ulcers, in the intestine, especially in the region known as the colon, abscesses in the liver and the brain, and by vomiting, severe diarrhea with fluid loss leading to dehydration, and abdominal pain.

Amebic dysentery is one of the two most common causes of intestinal inflammation worldwide. The other is infection with bacteria of the Shigella group.

Amebiasis is contracted mainly by ingesting the parasite in contaminated food or water. Person-to-person transmission is less likely, but can occur. The disease is thus most common where sanitation is poor, in the developing world. The disease is especially prevalent in regions where untreated human waste is used as...