Roundworms

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Roundworms

Roundworms (pronunciation: /ˈraʊndwɜːrmz/), also known as nematodes (pronunciation: /ˈnɛmətoʊdz/), are a type of parasitic worm. They are a part of the phylum Nematoda, which includes over 25,000 different known species.

Etymology

The term "roundworm" is derived from the cylindrical shape of the worm, which is round in cross-section. The term "nematode" comes from the Greek words "nema" meaning "thread" and "todes" meaning "like".

Description

Roundworms are typically characterized by their long, slender, and round bodies. They can range in size from microscopic to over a meter in length. The body of a roundworm is covered by a tough cuticle, which protects it from the harsh environments they often inhabit.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a roundworm typically involves four stages: egg, larva, juvenile, and adult. The eggs are usually laid in the host's intestines and are then passed out of the body in the feces. Once in the environment, the eggs hatch into larvae, which can then infect a new host.

Diseases Caused

Roundworms are responsible for a number of diseases in humans and animals, including ascariasis, hookworm disease, and trichinosis. These diseases are typically contracted by ingesting the eggs or larvae of the roundworm, often through contaminated food or water.

Treatment

Treatment for roundworm infections typically involves the use of antiparasitic medications, such as albendazole or mebendazole. These medications work by killing the roundworms, allowing them to be passed out of the body.

Prevention

Prevention of roundworm infections involves good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly, especially before eating or preparing food, and ensuring that food and water are safe to consume.

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski