Thelazia: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|A parasitic nematode affecting the eyes of various animals and humans}} | |||
== | ==Thelazia== | ||
[[File:Thelazia_callipaeda_female.jpg|thumb|right|Thelazia callipaeda female]] | |||
'''Thelazia''' is a genus of parasitic [[nematodes]] in the family [[Thelaziidae]]. These parasites are commonly known as "eye worms" due to their predilection for the [[conjunctival sac]] and [[tear ducts]] of various [[mammals]], including [[humans]], [[dogs]], and [[cats]]. The most well-known species within this genus is ''[[Thelazia callipaeda]]'', which is often referred to as the "oriental eye worm." | |||
== | ==Life Cycle== | ||
The life cycle of ''Thelazia'' species involves an intermediate host, typically a [[fly]] from the family [[Muscidae]] or [[Fannidae]]. The adult worms reside in the conjunctival sac of the definitive host, where they release larvae. These larvae are ingested by the fly during feeding and develop into infective larvae within the fly. When the fly feeds again, the infective larvae are deposited onto the eye of a new host, where they mature into adult worms. | |||
== | ==Pathogenesis== | ||
Infection with ''Thelazia'' species can lead to a condition known as [[thelaziasis]], characterized by [[conjunctivitis]], excessive tearing, and in severe cases, [[keratitis]] and [[corneal ulceration]]. The presence of the worms can cause mechanical irritation and inflammation of the eye tissues. | |||
== | ==Diagnosis== | ||
Diagnosis of thelaziasis is typically made by direct observation of the worms in the conjunctival sac or tear ducts. The worms are small, white, and thread-like, making them visible to the naked eye or with the aid of a magnifying glass. | |||
==Treatment== | |||
Treatment of thelaziasis involves the mechanical removal of the worms from the eye, which can be done with fine forceps under local anesthesia. In addition, [[anthelmintic]] medications such as [[ivermectin]] may be used to kill the worms. | |||
==Prevention== | |||
Preventive measures include controlling the population of the intermediate host flies and protecting animals from exposure to these flies. This can be achieved through the use of insect repellents and maintaining good hygiene and sanitation practices. | |||
==Related pages== | |||
* [[Nematode]] | * [[Nematode]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Parasitic disease]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Conjunctivitis]] | ||
* [[Ivermectin]] | |||
[[Category:Nematodes]] | [[Category:Nematodes]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Parasitic nematodes of animals]] | ||
[[Category:Parasitic nematodes of humans]] | |||
Latest revision as of 11:09, 15 February 2025
A parasitic nematode affecting the eyes of various animals and humans
Thelazia[edit]
Thelazia is a genus of parasitic nematodes in the family Thelaziidae. These parasites are commonly known as "eye worms" due to their predilection for the conjunctival sac and tear ducts of various mammals, including humans, dogs, and cats. The most well-known species within this genus is Thelazia callipaeda, which is often referred to as the "oriental eye worm."
Life Cycle[edit]
The life cycle of Thelazia species involves an intermediate host, typically a fly from the family Muscidae or Fannidae. The adult worms reside in the conjunctival sac of the definitive host, where they release larvae. These larvae are ingested by the fly during feeding and develop into infective larvae within the fly. When the fly feeds again, the infective larvae are deposited onto the eye of a new host, where they mature into adult worms.
Pathogenesis[edit]
Infection with Thelazia species can lead to a condition known as thelaziasis, characterized by conjunctivitis, excessive tearing, and in severe cases, keratitis and corneal ulceration. The presence of the worms can cause mechanical irritation and inflammation of the eye tissues.
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of thelaziasis is typically made by direct observation of the worms in the conjunctival sac or tear ducts. The worms are small, white, and thread-like, making them visible to the naked eye or with the aid of a magnifying glass.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment of thelaziasis involves the mechanical removal of the worms from the eye, which can be done with fine forceps under local anesthesia. In addition, anthelmintic medications such as ivermectin may be used to kill the worms.
Prevention[edit]
Preventive measures include controlling the population of the intermediate host flies and protecting animals from exposure to these flies. This can be achieved through the use of insect repellents and maintaining good hygiene and sanitation practices.
