Heterophyes heterophyes

Heterophyes heterophyes (pronunciation: /ˈhɛtərəˌfaɪz ˈhɛtərəˌfaɪz/) is a species of trematode parasites, commonly known as the oriental intestinal fluke. It is one of the smallest flukes that infect humans, primarily in the Far East, Middle East, and North Africa.

Etymology

The name Heterophyes heterophyes is derived from the Greek words heteros meaning different and phyein meaning to grow, referring to the different growth stages of this parasite.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Heterophyes heterophyes involves two intermediate hosts. The first intermediate host is a snail, in which the eggs hatch into miracidia, which develop into cercariae. The cercariae then leave the snail and encyst in the flesh of a second intermediate host, usually a fish. Humans become infected when they eat raw or undercooked fish containing the encysted parasites.

Symptoms and Treatment

Infection with Heterophyes heterophyes can cause heterophyiasis, a disease characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Treatment typically involves the use of antiparasitic drugs such as praziquantel.