Opisthorchis

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Opisthorchis

Opisthorchis (pronounced: oh-pis-thor-kis) is a genus of parasitic flatworms, known as liver flukes, that infect the bile ducts of certain mammals.

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 organisms.

Description

Opisthorchis species are small, leaf-shaped flukes that inhabit the bile ducts of their hosts. They are characterized by their elongated bodies and the presence of two suckers, one ventral and one oral. The life cycle of Opisthorchis involves three hosts: a freshwater snail, a fish, and a mammal (usually a human or a cat).

Species

There are several species of Opisthorchis, but the most significant in terms of human health are Opisthorchis viverrini and Opisthorchis felineus. Both species are known to cause opisthorchiasis, a disease characterized by inflammation of the bile ducts, jaundice, and potentially severe complications such as cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer).

Transmission

Transmission of Opisthorchis occurs when the definitive host (a mammal) consumes raw or undercooked fish infected with the parasite's metacercariae (an encysted larval stage). Once ingested, the metacercariae excyst in the duodenum and ascend the bile ducts, where they mature into adult flukes.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of opisthorchiasis involves proper cooking of fish and good sanitation practices to prevent contamination of water sources. Treatment typically involves the use of antiparasitic drugs, such as praziquantel.

Related Terms

  • Opisthorchiasis: The disease caused by infection with Opisthorchis species.
  • Cholangiocarcinoma: A type of cancer that can result from chronic Opisthorchis infection.
  • Praziquantel: A drug commonly used to treat opisthorchiasis.

External links

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