Balamuthia mandrillaris means: Balamuthia Mandrillaris is a wild-type of amoeba. Balamuthia can cause fatal brain injury and severe, sometimes fatal, infection to the spinal cord and brain. This organism was discovered for the first time in 1986. Balamuthia can enter the body via skin contact with soil contaminated by bacteria, inhaled dust or ingestion. Balamuthia enters the bloodstream, spreading to the brain. GAE symptoms are very similar to meningitis. They include neck stiffness, headaches, light sensitivity, nausea, vomiting and pain with neck movement. Although symptoms may initially be mild, they can become severe over time.
(in Medical Dictionary)
