ANCHYLOSTOMA Meaning and
Definition
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Anchylostoma is a noun that refers to a parasitic worm belonging to the genus Ancylostoma, which includes several species that infect humans and other animals. These worms are commonly known as hookworms, owing to their distinctive hooked mouthparts.
The word "Anchylostoma" is derived from the Greek words "anchylo," meaning 'crooked' or 'hooked,' and "stoma," meaning 'mouth.' This name accurately describes the physical appearance of these worms.
Anchylostoma typically inhabit the small intestine of their hosts, where they attach themselves to the intestinal wall using their hook-like mouthparts. They feed on the blood of their host, causing anemia and other harmful effects. Human infection generally occurs through the penetration of the skin by the larvae, which are usually found in contaminated soil or feces. The larvae then migrate through the bloodstream to reach the small intestine.
Symptoms of an Achylostoma infection in humans may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, anemia, and weight loss. Severe infection can lead to nutrient deficiencies and stunted growth, particularly in children. Treatment typically involves medication to eliminate the worms and addressing any associated health issues caused by the infection.
Preventive measures such as maintaining good hygiene, proper sanitation, and wearing appropriate footwear can significantly reduce the risk of an Anchylostoma infection. Regular deworming of pets and livestock also aids in controlling the spread of these parasites.
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Incorrect form of Ancylostoma.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ANCHYLOSTOMA
- znchylostoma
- snchylostoma
- wnchylostoma
- qnchylostoma
- amchylostoma
- ajchylostoma
- anxhylostoma
- anvhylostoma
- anfhylostoma
- andhylostoma
- ancbylostoma
- ancnylostoma
- ancjylostoma
- anchtlostoma
- anchglostoma
- anchhlostoma
- anchulostoma
- anch7lostoma
- anch6lostoma
- anchykostoma
Etymology of ANCHYLOSTOMA
The word "Anchylostoma" is derived from the Greek words "anchys" meaning "crooked" or "bent", and "stoma" meaning "mouth". This name was given to a genus of parasitic roundworms due to their hooked or curved mouthparts. The term was coined by the French zoologist Dubini in 1843 to describe a group of nematodes characterized by their unique oral structure. These worms are known for causing a parasitic infection called ancylostomiasis in humans and animals.
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