The Acanthamoeba and Sappinia inflammation Induction in Cancer Patients' Oral Cavity

Background: Free-living amoebae (FLA), including Acanthamoeba and Sappinia, pose threats to immunocompromised individuals, causing lung infections and granulomatous encephalopathy. Cancer, marked by uncontrolled cell proliferation, shares similarities with parasitic infections, both challenging the host's immune response. Method: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of FLA among cancer patients in Thi-Qar, Iraq. Oral cavity samples were collected from 40 cancer patients and 20 healthy individuals in December 2023. Isolated strains were cultured on non-nutrient agar with Escherichia coli. Molecular and morphological analyses were conducted to identify Acanthamoeba and Sappinia spp. Result: Acanthamoeba and Sappinia were detected in 7.5% and 5% of immunocompromised patients, respectively. Acanthamoeba exhibited higher pathogenicity, especially the T4 and T32 genotypes, compared to Sappinia. Conclusion: The study highlights the prevalence of FLA among cancer patients, with Acanthamoeba showing greater pathogenic potential. These findings underscore the importance of understanding FLA infections in immunocompromised populations for effective management strategies.