Echinostoma
Echinostoma
Echinostoma (pronounced: eh-kih-noh-stoh-muh) is a genus of trematodes in the family Echinostomatidae. The term is derived from the Greek words "echinos," meaning "hedgehog," and "stoma," meaning "mouth," referring to the spiny collar around the oral sucker of the parasites in this genus.
Definition
Echinostoma are parasitic flatworms that primarily infect various mammals, birds, and occasionally humans. They are characterized by a head collar with spines, which is a distinctive feature of the Echinostomatidae family.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Echinostoma involves multiple hosts. The primary host, where the adult worm resides, is usually a bird or mammal. The intermediate hosts are typically snails, in which the larval stages of the parasite develop. The parasite's eggs are excreted in the feces of the primary host and ingested by snails. Within the snail, the eggs hatch into larvae, which undergo several developmental stages before they are released into the water and infect the next host.
Symptoms and Treatment
In humans, infection with Echinostoma can lead to echinostomiasis, a disease characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs such as praziquantel.
Related Terms
- Echinostomatidae: The family to which Echinostoma belongs.
- Echinostomiasis: The disease caused by infection with Echinostoma.
- Trematodes: A class of flatworms that includes Echinostoma.
- Praziquantel: A drug commonly used to treat infections with Echinostoma and other parasites.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Echinostoma
- Wikipedia's article - Echinostoma
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