Onchocercidae
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Onchocercidae
Onchocercidae (pronunciation: on-ko-ser-ki-dee) is a family of nematodes, or roundworms, that includes several important species which cause diseases in humans and animals.
Etymology
The name "Onchocercidae" is derived from the Greek words "onkos" (meaning hook) and "kerkos" (meaning tail), referring to the characteristic hooked tail of the adult worms in this family.
Related Terms
- Nematode: A phylum of worms also known as roundworms. Onchocercidae is a family within this phylum.
- Onchocerca volvulus: A species of roundworm in the Onchocercidae family. It is the causative agent of onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness.
- Onchocerciasis: A disease caused by infection with Onchocerca volvulus. It is characterized by severe itching, skin lesions, and, in advanced cases, blindness.
- River blindness: Another name for onchocerciasis, derived from the fact that the disease is often found in communities living near fast-flowing rivers, where the blackfly vector breeds.
- Blackfly: A type of fly that serves as the vector for Onchocerca volvulus. The blackfly bites humans and animals, transmitting the worm larvae in the process.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Onchocercidae
- Wikipedia's article - Onchocercidae
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