Ascaris lumbricoides
Ascaris lumbricoides is a species of nematode or roundworm, and is the most common parasitic worm in humans. This organism is responsible for the disease ascariasis, a type of soil-transmitted helminthiasis, and is an important public health problem especially in developing countries.
Biology[edit | edit source]
Ascaris lumbricoides belongs to the phylum Nematoda. Adult females can be significantly larger than males and can reach lengths of up to 35 cm.
Life cycle[edit | edit source]
- The life cycle of A. lumbricoides is complex, involving several distinct stages:
- Egg stage: The life cycle begins when eggs are excreted in human feces and find their way into the soil.
- Larval stage: The eggs hatch into larvae in the soil, then are accidentally ingested by humans, often through contaminated food or water.
- Migration stage: Once ingested, the larvae migrate through the body, often passing through the lungs before returning to the intestine, where they mature into adults.
- Adult stage: Adult worms reside in the human intestine where they can produce large numbers of eggs each day.
Transmission[edit | edit source]
Transmission of A. lumbricoides typically occurs through ingestion of eggs from soil contaminated with human feces, often where sanitation is poor.
Pathogenesis and Symptoms[edit | edit source]
- Infection with A. lumbricoides can result in a range of symptoms including:
- Asymptomatic infections, especially with low worm burdens.
- Abdominal discomfort, bloating and diarrhea.
- In heavy infections, intestinal blockage can occur.
- During the larval migration phase, respiratory symptoms such as cough and wheezing can occur.
Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis is typically made by identifying characteristic eggs in stool samples. Treatment usually involves anti-parasitic drugs such as albendazole or mebendazole.
Public Health Impact and Control Measures[edit | edit source]
Infection with A. lumbricoides is a significant public health concern, especially in developing countries. Key control measures include improving sanitation and providing regular deworming treatments to at-risk populations, particularly children.
References[edit | edit source]
<references>
- "Ascariasis". Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Retrieved 2023-05-25.
- "Ascaris lumbricoides". World Health Organization (WHO). Retrieved 2023-05-25.
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