Capillaria hepatica is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /kəˈpɪlɛrɪə hɛpəˈtɪkə/. The word "capillaria" is derived from the Latin word "capillaris" meaning "hair-like", which is fitting as these parasites are thin and small. "Hepatica" is derived from the Greek word "hepar" meaning "liver", which is the organ that these parasites infect. Proper spelling of this word is important in scientific literature to avoid confusion and ensure accurate communication.
Capillaria hepatica is a parasitic roundworm species that primarily infects the liver tissues of various mammals, including humans. It belongs to the family Trichuridae and is commonly known as the "hepatic capillariid" or "liver fluke." This species is prevalent worldwide and is particularly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
The adult worms are small and typically measure about 1-3 centimeters in length. They have a spindle-shaped body with a narrow anterior end and a posterior end that tapers to a fine point. Capillaria hepatica completes its entire life cycle within the host's liver, making it an endoparasite.
The lifecycle of Capillaria hepatica begins with the ingestion of embryonated eggs, which are often present in contaminated food or water. These eggs hatch into larvae within the intestines and then migrate through the bloodstream to reach the liver. Once the larvae invade the liver, they cause inflammation and damage to the liver tissues.
The main symptoms of Capillaria hepatica infection in humans include abdominal pain, fever, weight loss, and hepatomegaly (enlargement of the liver). In severe cases, it can lead to liver failure or even death.
Diagnosis of Capillaria hepatica infection often involves examining liver tissue samples or detecting the parasite's eggs in stool or liver biopsy specimens. Treatment usually involves the administration of anthelmintic medications, such as albendazole or mebendazole, to eliminate the parasites from the liver.
Prevention of Capillaria hepatica primarily involves maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding ingestion of contaminated food or water. Additionally, regular deworming of pets and livestock can help reduce the risk of transmission to humans.
The word "Capillaria" originates from the Latin word "capillus", meaning "hair", as the parasite causes hair-like worms. The term "hepatica" is derived from the Greek word "hepatikos", which means "liver", referring to the parasite's habitat in the liver. Thus, "Capillaria hepatica" combines both Latin and Greek origins, emphasizing the hair-like characteristic and liver-dwelling nature of the parasite.