Helminthiasis
Helminthiasis
Helminthiasis (pronounced: hel-min-THAI-uh-sis) is a medical condition caused by the infestation of parasitic worms, known as helminths. The term is derived from the Greek word 'helmins', meaning worm, and '-iasis', a suffix used in medicine to denote a pathological condition.
Types of Helminthiasis
There are several types of helminthiasis, including:
- Ascariasis - caused by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides.
- Trichuriasis - caused by the whipworm Trichuris trichiura.
- Hookworm disease - caused by the hookworms Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale.
- Schistosomiasis - caused by flukes of the genus Schistosoma.
- Enterobiasis - caused by the pinworm Enterobius vermicularis.
Symptoms
Symptoms of helminthiasis can vary greatly depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. In severe cases, helminthiasis can lead to malnutrition, anemia, and organ damage.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of helminthiasis typically involves a stool sample to identify the presence of worm eggs. Blood tests may also be used to detect certain types of worms. Treatment usually involves antiparasitic medication to kill the worms, and in some cases, surgery may be required to remove large worms or to repair damage caused by the infestation.
Prevention
Prevention of helminthiasis primarily involves good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, proper food preparation, and avoiding contact with contaminated soil or water. In areas where helminthiasis is common, mass drug administration programs may be used to reduce the prevalence of the disease.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Helminthiasis
- Wikipedia's article - Helminthiasis
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