ECHINOSTOMIASES Meaning and
Definition
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Echinostomiases is a medical term referring to a parasitic infection caused by the ingestion of water-dwelling flukes of the Echinostoma genus. These flukes are small flatworms that infest the digestive system of humans and various animals, including birds and mammals.
The infection typically occurs when individuals consume raw or undercooked fish or crustaceans contaminated with Echinostoma larvae. Once ingested, these larvae develop into adult flukes in the intestines, attaching themselves to the intestinal wall and causing damage to the host.
Symptoms of echinostomiases can vary but commonly include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. In severe cases, individuals may also experience malnutrition, weight loss, anemia, and fatigue. The severity of symptoms depends on the number of flukes present and the duration of the infection.
Diagnosis of echinostomiases is often challenging as it can mimic other parasitic infections or gastrointestinal disorders. Laboratory tests such as the examination of stool samples or the detection of specific antibodies in the blood may be conducted to aid in diagnosis.
Treatment for echinostomiases usually involves the administration of anthelmintic drugs, such as praziquantel or albendazole, to kill the parasites. Additionally, supportive measures, such as fluid replacement and nutrition therapy, may be required for individuals with severe symptoms.
Prevention of echinostomiases primarily involves ensuring the proper cooking and handling of fish and crustaceans, as well as practicing good hygiene and avoiding the consumption of contaminated water sources.
Common Misspellings for ECHINOSTOMIASES
- wchinostomiases
- schinostomiases
- dchinostomiases
- rchinostomiases
- 4chinostomiases
- 3chinostomiases
- exhinostomiases
- evhinostomiases
- efhinostomiases
- edhinostomiases
- ecginostomiases
- ecbinostomiases
- ecninostomiases
- ecjinostomiases
- ecuinostomiases
- ecyinostomiases
- echunostomiases
- echjnostomiases
- echknostomiases
- echonostomiases
Etymology of ECHINOSTOMIASES
The word "Echinostomiases" is derived from the term "Echinostoma", which refers to a genus of parasitic flatworms called trematodes or flukes. The word "Echinostoma" is composed of two Greek roots: "echinos" meaning "spine" or "thorn", and "stoma" meaning "mouth". This is in reference to the spines or hooks found around the oral sucker of these parasitic flatworms, which they use to attach themselves to the intestines of their hosts. The suffix "-iasis" is a medical term meaning "disease" or "condition". Therefore, "Echinostomiases" refers to the diseases or conditions caused by these parasites.
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