Dicrocoeliasis

Dicrocoeliasis

Dicrocoeliasis (pronounced: di-cro-coe-lee-uh-sis) is a parasitic disease caused by the liver fluke Dicrocoelium dendriticum. The disease primarily affects livestock, such as sheep and cattle, but can also infect humans.

Etymology

The term "Dicrocoeliasis" is derived from the genus name of the parasite, Dicrocoelium, which in turn comes from the Greek words "dicros" meaning "forked" and "koilos" meaning "hollow". This refers to the distinctive shape of the adult fluke.

Symptoms

In animals, symptoms of dicrocoeliasis can include weight loss, anemia, and jaundice. In severe cases, the disease can lead to death. In humans, the disease is often asymptomatic, but can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Transmission

Dicrocoeliasis is transmitted through the ingestion of the parasite's eggs, which are passed in the feces of an infected animal. The eggs are then ingested by snails, which serve as the first intermediate host. The larvae develop in the snail and are released in slime balls, which are then eaten by ants, the second intermediate host. The ants are then ingested by grazing animals, completing the life cycle of the parasite.

Treatment

Treatment for dicrocoeliasis involves the use of anthelmintic drugs, such as praziquantel or triclabendazole. In animals, preventative measures include regular deworming and avoiding grazing in areas known to be infected.

Related Terms

• Parasitology: The study of parasites and parasitic diseases.
• Liver fluke: A type of flatworm that infects the liver.
• Anthelmintic: A type of drug used to treat parasitic worm infections.

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Dicrocoeliasis
• Wikipedia's article - Dicrocoeliasis

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