Heterophyidae

Heterophyidae is a family of trematodes in the order Plagiorchiida. The family includes several species that are parasites of humans and other mammals. The adult worms are typically found in the small intestine, but can also occur in other parts of the body.

Taxonomy

The family Heterophyidae was first described by Odhner, in 1914. It includes several genera, such as Heterophyes, Metagonimus, Stellantchasmus, and Cryptocotyle.

Life cycle

The life cycle of Heterophyidae involves two intermediate hosts. The first host is a snail, in which the parasite undergoes asexual reproduction. The second host is a fish, in which the parasite develops into a metacercaria. The definitive host, which can be a human or other mammal, becomes infected by eating raw or undercooked fish containing the metacercariae.

Pathology

Infection with Heterophyidae can cause heterophyiasis, a disease characterized by diarrhea, abdominal pain, and malabsorption. In severe cases, the parasites can migrate to the heart, brain, or other organs, causing serious complications.

Prevention and control

Prevention of heterophyiasis involves proper cooking of fish and avoidance of raw or undercooked fish. Control measures include treatment of infected individuals with praziquantel, and control of snail populations.

See also

• Trematoda
• Parasitic worms
• Foodborne illness

References

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External links

• CDC - DPDx - Heterophyiasis

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