Fascioliasis Definition - Microbiology Key Term

Definition

Fascioliasis is a parasitic infection caused by liver flukes, primarily Fasciola hepatica. It affects the liver and bile ducts of humans and animals.

Fascioliasis is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated water or plants, such as watercress.
The life cycle of Fasciola hepatica involves snails as intermediate hosts.
Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice during the acute phase.
Diagnosis is typically made through stool examination for eggs or serological tests.
Treatment often involves antiparasitic medications like triclabendazole.

Helminths: Parasitic worms that can infect various parts of the body including the gastrointestinal tract.

Triclabendazole: An antiparasitic drug commonly used to treat fascioliasis.

Liver Fluke: A type of parasitic flatworm that infects the liver and bile ducts, causing diseases such as fascioliasis.