Necatoriasis
Necatoriasis (pronunciation: nek-uh-tawr-ee-uh-sis) is a type of helminthiasis, specifically a hookworm infection caused by the species Necator americanus.
Etymology
The term "Necatoriasis" is derived from the Latin Necator, meaning "killer", and the Greek -iasis, meaning "condition". The species name americanus refers to its initial discovery in the Americas.
Overview
Necatoriasis is a common parasitic infection that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The infection occurs when the larvae of the Necator americanus hookworm penetrate the skin, usually through bare feet, and migrate through the body to the intestines where they mature into adult worms.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Necatoriasis can vary depending on the stage of infection. Initial infection may cause a localized itch or rash at the site of skin penetration, known as ground itch. As the larvae migrate through the body, they may cause a condition known as Loeffler's syndrome, characterized by cough, fever, and eosinophilia. Once in the intestines, the adult worms can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and anemia due to blood loss.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of Necatoriasis is typically made through the examination of stool samples for the presence of hookworm eggs. Treatment usually involves anthelmintic medications such as albendazole or mebendazole to kill the adult worms.
Prevention
Prevention of Necatoriasis primarily involves improved sanitation and the wearing of shoes in areas where hookworm is common. Mass drug administration programs are also used in some areas to reduce the prevalence of infection.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Necatoriasis
- Wikipedia's article - Necatoriasis
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