Opisthorchis

Definition

Opisthorchis is a genus of parasitic trematodes, commonly known as liver flukes, that infect the bile ducts of mammals including humans. They can cause opisthorchiasis, a disease with significant health impacts in endemic areas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Opisthorchis viverrini and Opisthorchis felineus are the two main species that infect humans.
2. The lifecycle of Opisthorchis involves snails and fish as intermediate hosts before infecting mammals.
3. Infection occurs through consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish containing metacercariae.
4. Chronic infection with Opisthorchis viverrini is associated with an increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer).
5. Diagnosis typically involves microscopic examination of stool samples to detect eggs.

Related terms

Trematode: A class of parasitic flatworms, also known as flukes.

Metacercariae: The encysted larval stage of certain trematodes, which is infectious to the final host.

Cholangiocarcinoma: A type of cancer that forms in the bile ducts, sometimes linked to chronic Opisthorchis infection.