Echinococcus multilocularis
Echinococcus multilocularis
Echinococcus multilocularis (pronunciation: eh-kih-no-KOK-us mul-tee-lok-yoo-LAIR-is) is a small tapeworm species that belongs to the Echinococcidae family.
Etymology
The name Echinococcus multilocularis is derived from the Greek words "echinos" meaning "hedgehog", "kokkos" meaning "berry", "multi" meaning "many", and "locularis" meaning "having compartments". This refers to the multi-chambered structure of the parasite's cysts.
Description
Echinococcus multilocularis is a parasitic worm that primarily infects canids such as foxes, wolves, and dogs. The adult worms live in the small intestine of these definitive hosts. The eggs are then passed in the feces, which can be ingested by intermediate hosts such as rodents. Humans can become accidental hosts by ingesting food or water contaminated with the eggs.
Disease
Infection with Echinococcus multilocularis can lead to a disease known as Alveolar echinococcosis. This is a serious condition that can cause damage to the liver and other organs. The disease is characterized by the growth of cysts that resemble a malignant tumor.
Related Terms
- Echinococcosis: A disease caused by infection with Echinococcus species.
- Cestoda: The class of parasitic worms that Echinococcus multilocularis belongs to.
- Helminthiasis: A general term for infestations with parasitic worms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Echinococcus multilocularis
- Wikipedia's article - Echinococcus multilocularis
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