What does MAP mean in DISEASES

Mycobacterium Avium subspecies Paratuberculosis (MAP) is a type of bacteria that can cause paratuberculosis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestine that affects livestock and some wild animals. It is believed to be zoonotic, meaning humans can contract the infection from animals.

Although estimates vary, current evidence suggests that up to 1% of Americans may be infected with MAP. However, it is difficult to diagnose MAP infections due to similarities in symptoms of other diseases such as Crohn’s Disease.

The most common symptom associated with MAP infection in humans is Crohn’s Disease-like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Other symptoms include fatigue, fever, joint pain and anemia.

Currently, definitive diagnosis requires a specialized laboratory technique called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This test detects very small amounts of bacterial DNA which can confirm if MAP DNA is present.

The exact method of transmission between animals and humans is not well understood but experts believe that contaminated food or water can transmit the bacteria from animals to humans. Moreover, direct contact with infected animals such as domestic cattle or sheep or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products could also lead to transmission.

Currently there are no approved treatments for those infected with Mycobacterium Avium subspecies Paratuberculosis (MAP). However, some antibiotics have been successful at treating chronic cases when combined with dietary changes and lifestyle modifications such as improved hygiene practices and exercise regimens.

The long-term outcomes associated with a mycobacterial avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) infections are not yet known due to limited data on long-term outcomes from patients diagnosed with this illness; however it has been suggested individuals suffer from complications arising from malabsorption including vitamin deficiencies and malnutrition over time.