Amoeba from the Entamoeba genus belong to the Amoebozoa type, which are internal parasites or commensals of animals and humans.
One of the parasitic amoebiasis is Entamoeba histolytica, which causes amoebiasis, with symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, increased temperature, and enlarged liver. This parasite lives in the colon epithelium and can also be found in the liver, lungs and spleen. Infection occurs through ingestion of cysts with food or as a result of poor hygiene.
Entamoeba dispar is a non-pathogenic commensal of the human gastrointestinal tract which is morphologically and microscopically identical to Entamoeba histolytica. Therefore, to confirm the infection with dysentery, genetic tests must be performed to distinguish the type of infection.

Diagnostic test AmpliTest Entamoeba histolytica (Real Time PCR) allows detection in a single reaction the DNA sequences specific to Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar in DNA preparations obtained from feces samples.The Real Time PCR is a triplex-type. The FAM channel serves for detection of the DNA sequences specific for Entamoeba histolytica whereas Entamoeba dispar-specific DNA sequences are detected in the Texas Red channel. The HEX channel is reserved for monitoring of the internal control amplification. Additionally, diagnostic panel contains negative and positive controls allowing to monitor the whole aspects of the Real Time PCR. Positive control was obtained using genetic engeeniring.