Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Flukes are parasitic flatworms belonging to the class Trematoda. These helminths often infect the gastrointestinal tract of their hosts, including humans.
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Flukes have complex life cycles that typically involve multiple hosts, including a primary host and one or more intermediate hosts.
Common species that infect humans include liver flukes (Clonorchis sinensis) and intestinal flukes (Fasciolopsis buski).
Transmission to humans often occurs through the consumption of contaminated water or undercooked aquatic animals.
Fluke infections can cause significant health issues such as liver disease, gastrointestinal distress, and malnutrition.
Diagnosis of fluke infections is typically made through stool sample analysis, where eggs are identified under a microscope.
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Related terms
Helminths: A broad category of parasitic worms that includes flatworms like flukes and roundworms.
Trematoda: The class within the phylum Platyhelminthes to which all flukes belong.
Gastrointestinal Tract Infections: Infections that affect the digestive system, often caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites like helminths.