Schistosoma mansoni

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Schistosoma mansoni

Schistosoma mansoni (pronunciation: /ʃɪˈstɒsəmə mænˈsoʊni/) is a significant species of parasitic flatworms, or trematodes, in the family Schistosomatidae. This species is one of the major agents of schistosomiasis, a disease that affects millions of people in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Etymology

The genus name Schistosoma (pronunciation: /ʃɪˈstɒsəmə/) derives from the Greek words schistos, meaning "split", and soma, meaning "body". This refers to the split-like appearance of the male worm's body. The species name mansoni honors Sir Patrick Manson, a British physician who made significant contributions to the field of tropical medicine.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Schistosoma mansoni involves two hosts: a freshwater snail (of the genus Biomphalaria) and a mammal (including humans). The cycle begins when eggs are released into water via the feces of an infected host. These eggs hatch into miracidia, which infect snails. Inside the snail, the miracidia develop into sporocysts, which produce cercariae. These cercariae are released into the water and can penetrate the skin of a mammalian host, where they develop into adult worms.

Disease

In humans, Schistosoma mansoni causes intestinal schistosomiasis. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and blood in the stool. Chronic infection can lead to liver damage, splenomegaly, and hepatosplenomegaly.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for Schistosoma mansoni infection typically involves the drug praziquantel. Prevention strategies include improving sanitation, providing safe water supplies, and controlling the snail population.

External links

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