Nematodes (Helminths)

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Nematodes (Helminths): Lifecycle in Humans, Diagnosis, and Treatment
 Definition

Nematodes (Roundworms)

 Phylum: Nematoda

 Characteristics:

   Cylindrical, elongated, unsegmented bodies

 Habitats:

   Soil, Water, Parasitic environments (plants and animals, including humans)

Lifecycle in Humans

1. Ingestion/Penetration: Ingest eggs/larvae via food, water, soil; some penetrate skin.

2. Larval Migration: Larvae move through tissues (e.g., lungs, intestines).

3. Adult Stage: Mature in specific body locations (e.g., intestines, lymphatics).

4. Reproduction: Adults reproduce; eggs excreted in feces or remain in tissues.

5. Environmental Stage: Eggs/larvae develop in environment; become infectious.

Ascaris lumbricoides Example

1. Ingestion: Ingest eggs via contaminated food/water.

2. Hatching: Eggs hatch in intestines.

3. Migration: Larvae move to lungs, then throat, swallowed back to intestines.

4. Maturation: Mature into adults in intestines.

5. Egg Production: Eggs excreted in feces.

6. Development: Eggs develop in soil, becoming infectious.

Diagnosis

1. Stool Examination: Check for eggs or larvae.

2. Blood Tests: Detect eosinophilia or antibodies.

3. Imaging: Ultrasound, Xrays, CT scans.

4. Skin Biopsy: Detect larvae in skin.

5. Serological Tests: Detect specific antibodies or antigens.

 Treatment

1. Albendazole

2. Mebendazole

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