How Do You Spell FILARIA VOLVULUS?

1. Filaria volvulus, commonly known as Onchocerca volvulus, is a parasitic worm that belongs to the phylum Nematoda. It is the causative agent of onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, a vector-borne disease predominantly found in tropical regions of Africa and the Americas.

   Onchocerca volvulus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected black flies of the Simulium genus. These flies serve as vectors for the microscopic larvae of the worm, which are transferred to humans during blood meals. Once deposited into the human host, the larvae develop into adult worms that migrate and predominantly reside in subcutaneous nodules or connective tissues near the skin and eyes.

   The presence of Filaria volvulus in the human body can lead to the manifestation of various clinical symptoms and conditions. Onchocerciasis is characterized by severe itching of the skin, visual impairment, and in advanced cases, loss of vision. The worm's lifecycle is perpetuated when a black fly bites an infected individual and acquires microfilariae, which subsequently mature into infective larvae within the insect.

   Efforts to control and eliminate onchocerciasis include the distribution of antiparasitic drugs, such as ivermectin and doxycycline, to affected communities. Mass drug administration programs have proven effective in reducing the prevalence and intensity of the disease.

   In conclusion, Filaria volvulus is a parasitic nematode responsible for causing onchocerciasis, a debilitating disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding the lifecycle and transmission of this worm is crucial for developing effective control strategies and providing appropriate medical interventions to prevent its spread and minimize suffering among affected populations.

2. A parasite found in subcutaneous tumors, the size of a pea to that of a pigeon's egg, in natives of the west coast of Africa.

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

Common Misspellings for FILARIA VOLVULUS

The term Filaria volvulus has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.

The genus name Filaria originates from the Latin word filum, which means thread. It refers to the thread-like appearance of the parasites of this genus.

The specific epithet volvulus is derived from the Latin word volvo, meaning to roll. In this context, volvulus implies the twisting or coiling of the filariae. This term accurately describes the physical appearance of the adult parasites as they can form tangled masses or twists within the host's body.

Therefore, Filaria volvulus can be translated as thread-like parasite that rolls or twists.