Baylisascaris procyonis
Baylisascaris procyonis
Baylisascaris procyonis (pronounced bay-lis-as-karis pro-sigh-onis), also known as the raccoon roundworm, is a species of roundworm found commonly in raccoons. This parasitic worm can cause severe or fatal disease in humans if infected.
Etymology
The name Baylisascaris procyonis is derived from the name of the scientist who first described it, H.A. Baylis, and procyonis, which is Latin for "of the raccoon".
Description
Baylisascaris procyonis is a large roundworm that lives in the small intestine of raccoons. The adult worms produce eggs that are passed in the raccoon's feces. These eggs can survive in the environment for years and are resistant to most methods of disinfection.
Infection and Symptoms
Humans can become infected with Baylisascaris procyonis by accidentally ingesting the eggs. This can occur when a person comes into contact with raccoon feces, or by touching contaminated soil, water, or objects. Once ingested, the eggs hatch into larvae in the person's intestine and can travel to various organs and tissues in the body, causing a disease known as Baylisascariasis.
Symptoms of Baylisascariasis can vary depending on the number of eggs ingested and where in the body the larvae migrate. Symptoms can include nausea, fatigue, liver enlargement, loss of coordination, and in severe cases, blindness or coma.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of Baylisascaris procyonis infection involves avoiding contact with raccoons and their feces, and practicing good hygiene. Treatment typically involves the use of antiparasitic drugs, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the worms.
Related Terms
- Parasitology: The study of parasites and their hosts.
- Zoonosis: Any disease or infection that is naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals to humans.
- Helminthiasis: Infestations of parasitic worms (helminths) in the human body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Baylisascaris procyonis
- Wikipedia's article - Baylisascaris procyonis
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