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= Algaemia = Algaemia is a secondary term that refers to the emerging condition in which green algae enters the bloodstream. Members of the genus Prototheca, are the most common algae that leads to algaemia. Prototheca is one of only two known algae genera capable of inflicting disease on mammals, including humans, through invasion of host tissue. Majority of cases are observed in dairy cattle as a cause of Bovine mastitis as well as other domesticated animals. Cases of Algaemia have been observed in dogs and cats as well. Few cases have been observed in humans. Human cases of Algaemia or, Protothecosis, is examined on a case by case basis due to the particularity of each case. Protothecosis infection is classified based on the symptoms: (i) cutaneous lesions, (ii) olecranon bursitis, and (iii) disseminated or systemic type infections.

Causes of Algaemia
The algal cells are commonly found in the soil and water of many regions. Prototheca, especially P. wickerhamii and P. zopfii, can colonize in the skin, fingernails, respiratory and digestive tracts. Prototheca algae cells can enter the bloodstream through open wounds, mucous membrane pathways, or the ingestion or inhalation of the cells. Individuals with a damaged or weak immune system begin to see symptoms as the cells build up within the bloodstream.

Symptoms of Algaemia
Protothecosis can affect anyone but is most commonly seen with more severe symptoms in those who have preexisting conditions. Individuals with a weak immune system have been shown to experience the worst symptoms. Many symptoms are not specific to this infection and can be hard to differentiate. Prototheca is not included as a typical infection that is screened for and is usually not identified without microscopic examination. Polymerase chain reaction tests have shown to assists in the identification of Prototheca. Symptoms includes but are not limited to: numbness in the extremities, olecranon bursitis or general inflammation, cutaneous infections in the hair, skin or fingernails, skin lesions, difficulty breathing, respiratory failure, multiple organ failure, and can result in death if not treated early enough.

Treatments
Treatments for human protothecosis can range from pharmaceutical to surgical efforts. Anti-fungal medications such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and amphotericin B are commonly given drugs for treatment. Amphotericin B has proven to be the most effective but failure to treat or cure is not uncommon. Surgery is an option in some cases but is only an option when the infection remains localized in an area that can be excised.

Prototheca
Prototheca is a genus of algae first identified by Wilhelm Krüger in 1894. Krüger first classified Prototheca as fungi. It was later reclassified as algae. It is believed that this genus of algae began with photosynthetic ability but over time transitioned to a parasitic form. Unlike most algae, prototheca cells lack chlorophyll and instead rely on a host for nutrients. Two domains of prototheca (P.) have been identified, those typically associated with cattle (P. ciferrii and P. bovis) and those considered human-associated (P. wickerhamii, P. zopfii, and P. miyajii). P. wickerhamii and P. zopfii are the predominant algae associated with algaemia. Prototheca can exist in a variety of environments but have been found frequently in warm and humid regions. The algae is more prevalent in the southern and southeastern portions of the United States. The algal cells have been identified in samples from sewage, fresh and saltwater, animal feces, and some foods.