How Do You Spell TRICHINELLA SPIRALIS?

1. Trichinella spiralis is a species of parasitic nematode (roundworm) that commonly infects mammals, including humans. The name "Trichinella" comes from the Greek word "trichinos," meaning hair-like, which refers to the worm's slender, thread-like appearance. The species name "spiralis" is derived from the Latin word "spira," meaning coil or spiral, describing the worm's distinctive coiled shape.

   This microscopic worm has a complex life cycle that begins with its ingestion in undercooked or raw meat, particularly pork and wild game. Once inside the host's intestine, the adult female Trichinella worms produce larvae that invade the intestinal wall, eventually entering blood vessels and spreading throughout the body.

   The larvae can then penetrate different tissues, primarily muscle fibers, where they become embedded and encysted. Once encysted, the larvae can survive for extended periods, potentially remaining viable for several years. Humans become infected by consuming the larvae-containing meat.

   Trichinella infections in humans, known as trichinellosis or trichinosis, can range from asymptomatic to severe, depending on the number of larvae ingested. Common symptoms include fever, muscle pain, swelling, and gastrointestinal distress. In severe cases, the larvae invasion can affect the heart, central nervous system, and other organs, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.

   To prevent trichinellosis, it is crucial to cook meat to a safe internal temperature or freeze it for an extended period to kill the larvae. The detection and prevention of trichinella infections play a significant role in food safety, as human cases are primarily linked to consuming contaminated meat products.

2. A nematode, the adult of which inhabits the intestine of man and other mammals, the larvae invading the muscles, and giving rise to the disease, trichinosis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for TRICHINELLA SPIRALIS

The word "Trichinella spiralis" is a scientific name for a parasitic roundworm that causes the disease known as trichinosis. Here is the etymology of each part:

- Trichinella: The term "Trichinella" is derived from the Greek word "trichinos", meaning "of or pertaining to hair". It refers to the hair-like appearance of the tiny larvae of this parasite.

- Spiralis: The word "spiralis" comes from the Latin word "spira", meaning "coil" or "spiral". This term describes the characteristic coiled shape of the adult form of the worm found in muscle tissues.

So, "Trichinella spiralis" essentially means "hair-like coiled parasite", which reflects the physical attributes and life cycle stages of this particular parasitic roundworm.