Microfilaria
Microfilaria
Microfilaria (pronunciation: /ˌmaɪkrəfɪˈlɛəriə/) is a term used to describe the early larval stage of certain parasitic nematodes in the family Onchocercidae. These parasites are often transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito and can cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals.
Etymology
The term "Microfilaria" is derived from the Greek words "micros" meaning small, and "filum" meaning thread, referring to the small, thread-like appearance of these parasites.
Related Terms
- Nematode: A phylum of worms also known as roundworms, of which microfilariae are a larval stage.
- Onchocerciasis: A disease caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus, transmitted through the bite of the blackfly. Microfilariae are responsible for the symptoms of this disease.
- Lymphatic filariasis: A disease caused by three species of parasitic worms, including Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori. Microfilariae of these species cause this disease, which affects the lymphatic system.
- Vector (epidemiology): An organism, typically a biting insect or tick, that transmits a disease or parasite from one animal or plant to another. Mosquitoes are the primary vectors for microfilariae.
Diseases Caused by Microfilariae
Microfilariae are responsible for several diseases in humans, including Onchocerciasis (also known as River Blindness), Lymphatic filariasis (also known as Elephantiasis), and Loiasis. These diseases are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions and can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from skin rashes and itching to severe disability and disfigurement.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for diseases caused by microfilariae typically involves antiparasitic medications. Prevention strategies include vector control measures such as the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and indoor residual spraying.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Microfilaria
- Wikipedia's article - Microfilaria
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