Opisthorchis viverrini
Opisthorchis viverrini
Opisthorchis viverrini (pronounced: oh-pis-thor-kis vi-ver-rini) is a parasitic fluke belonging to the class Trematoda and family Opisthorchiidae. It is one of the major causes of Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) in humans.
Etymology
The term "Opisthorchis" is derived from the Greek words "opistho" meaning behind and "orchis" meaning testicle, referring to the posterior location of the testes in these flukes. "Viverrini" is derived from the Latin "viverra" meaning civet, as the parasite was first discovered in the bile ducts of a civet cat.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Opisthorchis viverrini involves three hosts: the definitive human host, an intermediate snail host, and a secondary intermediate fish host. The adult flukes reside in the bile ducts of the human host, where they produce eggs that are excreted in the feces. These eggs are ingested by the snail host, where they hatch into larvae. The larvae then infect the fish host, where they encyst and wait to be ingested by a human.
Pathology
Infection with Opisthorchis viverrini can lead to a condition known as Opisthorchiasis, which is characterized by inflammation of the bile ducts, liver damage, and an increased risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention of Opisthorchis viverrini infection involves avoiding consumption of raw or undercooked fish. Treatment typically involves the use of antiparasitic drugs such as Praziquantel.
Related Terms
- Trematoda: The class of flatworms to which Opisthorchis viverrini belongs.
- Opisthorchiidae: The family of flukes to which Opisthorchis viverrini belongs.
- Cholangiocarcinoma: A type of cancer that can be caused by Opisthorchis viverrini infection.
- Opisthorchiasis: The condition caused by infection with Opisthorchis viverrini.
- Praziquantel: A drug commonly used to treat Opisthorchis viverrini infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Opisthorchis viverrini
- Wikipedia's article - Opisthorchis viverrini
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