Cestoda
Cestoda
Cestoda (pronounced: ses-TOE-duh) is a class of parasitic worms in the phylum Platyhelminthes. They are more commonly known as tapeworms due to their flat, ribbon-like bodies.
Etymology
The term "Cestoda" is derived from the Latin word cestus, which means "girdle" or "belt", and the Greek suffix -ode, meaning "like" or "similar to". This refers to the belt-like appearance of these worms.
Description
Cestoda are characterized by their elongated, flat bodies, which are segmented into a series of proglottids. They lack a digestive system and absorb nutrients directly through their skin. The head, or scolex, contains hooks and suckers for attachment to the host.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Cestoda involves two hosts. The primary host, usually a vertebrate, harbors the adult worm. The secondary host, often an invertebrate, harbors the larval stage. Eggs passed in the feces of the primary host are ingested by the secondary host. The larvae then develop into a form that can infect the primary host when the secondary host is eaten.
Diseases
Cestoda are responsible for a number of diseases in humans and animals, including taeniasis and cysticercosis. These diseases are caused by the ingestion of eggs or larvae in contaminated food or water.
Treatment
Treatment for cestode infections typically involves anthelmintic drugs, such as praziquantel or niclosamide. These drugs work by paralyzing the worms, allowing them to be expelled from the body.
Prevention
Prevention of cestode infections involves proper food handling and cooking, as well as good personal hygiene. Regular deworming of pets can also help prevent transmission.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cestoda
- Wikipedia's article - Cestoda
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