BLOOD FLUKE Meaning and
Definition
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A blood fluke is a parasitic flatworm that belongs to the class Trematoda, specifically the family Schistosomatidae. Also known as Schistosomes, blood flukes are found in freshwater environments and are responsible for causing a disease known as schistosomiasis, a significant public health concern in many parts of the world.
Blood flukes have a complex life cycle that involves two hosts: freshwater snails and humans or other mammals. The adult flukes live in the bloodstream of their definitive hosts, where they lay eggs. These eggs are then released into the environment through urine or feces. Once in the water, the eggs hatch, releasing larvae called miracidia. The miracidia penetrate and infect specific types of freshwater snails, where they undergo further development.
Within the snail host, the miracidia transform into cercariae, which are released into the water. Cercariae actively seek out humans or other suitable hosts by directly penetrating the skin when individuals come into contact with infested water. Once inside the definitive host, the cercariae develop into adult flukes in the blood vessels surrounding the intestines or urinary bladder.
Despite their small size (ranging from 1-2 cm long), blood flukes cause substantial damage to human health. The adult flukes can live for years within their hosts, producing eggs that contribute to the development of chronic schistosomiasis. Symptoms of the disease can vary but commonly include abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody urine, and anemia.
Due to the significant impact of blood fluke infections on global health, various control measures and treatment options have been developed, with the goal of reducing transmission and alleviating the burden of schistosomiasis on affected communities.
Common Misspellings for BLOOD FLUKE
- vlood fluke
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- bliod fluke
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- blpod fluke
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- bloid fluke
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Etymology of BLOOD FLUKE
The term "blood fluke" combines the words "blood" and "fluke" to describe a specific type of parasite that dwells in the blood vessels of its host.
The word "fluke" comes from the Old English "flōc", which originally referred to a flatfish. Over time, its meaning extended to include various flat, wing-like or leaf-like objects. The term "fluke" eventually became associated with the liver fluke, another parasitic flatworm found in the liver of various mammals.
The term "blood" originates from the Old English "blōd", which is believed to have descended from the Proto-Germanic word "blōþam". This word is thought to have an Indo-European root meaning "to swell, well up, gush", reflecting the vital nature of blood in sustaining life.
Similar spelling words for BLOOD FLUKE
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