Fasciola

Fasciola is a genus of parasitic flatworms known as liver flukes. They are classified under the phylum Platyhelminthes and the class Trematoda. The two main species, Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, are responsible for fasciolosis, a disease that affects both humans and livestock.

Overview

The Fasciola species are leaf-shaped worms that can grow up to 30mm in length. They are found worldwide and are most prevalent in areas where sheep and cattle are raised. The adult worms live in the bile ducts of the liver, where they lay eggs that are passed out in the feces.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Fasciola involves two hosts: a definitive host (usually a mammal) and an intermediate host (a freshwater snail). The eggs hatch in water and release a larval form called a miracidium, which infects the snail. Inside the snail, the miracidium develops into a sporocyst, then a redia, and finally a cercaria. The cercariae leave the snail and encyst on aquatic vegetation as metacercariae, which are ingested by the definitive host. In the host's intestine, the metacercariae excyst and migrate to the liver, where they mature into adult flukes.

Fasciolosis

Fasciolosis is a disease caused by infection with Fasciola flukes. It is primarily a disease of livestock, causing economic losses due to reduced milk and meat production. In humans, fasciolosis can cause fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Diagnosis is usually made by finding eggs in the feces. Treatment is with anthelmintic drugs such as triclabendazole.

Prevention and Control

Prevention of fasciolosis involves controlling the snail population and preventing livestock from eating contaminated vegetation. Vaccines are currently under development.

See Also

• Parasitology
• Trematoda
• Fasciolosis
• Anthelmintic

References

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