Baylisascariasis
Baylisascariasis (pronounced: bay-lis-as-kar-i-a-sis) is a rare, potentially severe infection caused by the roundworm Baylisascaris procyonis. This roundworm is a common parasite in raccoons.
Etymology
The term "Baylisascariasis" is derived from the genus name of the roundworm Baylisascaris, named after the parasitologist H.A. Baylis, and the suffix "-ascariasis", which is commonly used in medicine to denote an infection caused by ascarid parasites.
Transmission
Baylisascariasis is transmitted to humans through accidental ingestion of Baylisascaris procyonis eggs, which are found in the feces of infected raccoons. The eggs can survive in the environment for years and are resistant to most cleaning methods.
Symptoms
The symptoms of baylisascariasis vary depending on the number of eggs ingested and where in the body the larvae migrate. Symptoms may include nausea, fatigue, liver enlargement, loss of coordination, lack of attention to people and surroundings, loss of muscle control, blindness, and coma.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of baylisascariasis is difficult because there are no readily available blood tests. Diagnosis is usually made by identifying the characteristic eggs in a stool sample or by observing the clinical symptoms and obtaining a history of exposure to raccoon feces.
Treatment
Treatment for baylisascariasis includes antiparasitic drugs such as albendazole or ivermectin, along with anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the body's immune response to the migrating larvae. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Prevention
Prevention of baylisascariasis involves avoiding contact with raccoons and their feces, especially in areas where raccoons are common. It is also important to wash hands thoroughly after working or playing outdoors.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Baylisascariasis
- Wikipedia's article - Baylisascariasis
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