Protozoan infection
Protozoan Infection
Protozoan infection (/proʊtəˈzoʊ.ən ɪnˈfɛkʃən/) refers to diseases caused by protozoa, a group of single-celled organisms that are classified as parasites. These infections can occur in humans and other animals and are often transmitted through contaminated water or food, or by insect bites.
Etymology
The term "protozoan" comes from the Greek words "protos" meaning first and "zoon" meaning animal. This is because protozoa were among the first animals to evolve. The term "infection" comes from the Latin "infectio", meaning to stain or dye, which in medical terms refers to the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues.
Types of Protozoan Infections
There are several types of protozoan infections, including:
- Malaria: This is caused by the Plasmodium species of protozoa and is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
- Giardiasis: This is caused by the Giardia lamblia protozoan and is often contracted by drinking contaminated water.
- Toxoplasmosis: This is caused by the Toxoplasma gondii protozoan and can be contracted from undercooked meat or from contact with cat feces.
- Trypanosomiasis: This includes African sleeping sickness and Chagas disease, both caused by different species of the Trypanosoma protozoan.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of protozoan infections can vary widely depending on the type of infection, but often include fever, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, although the specific medication used will depend on the type of protozoan causing the infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Protozoan infection
- Wikipedia's article - Protozoan infection
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