The correct spelling of the parasitic flatworm, Fasciolopsis buski, can be confusing for those unfamiliar with scientific naming conventions. The word is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription of /ˌfæʃiəˈlɒp.sɪs ˈbʊski/, reflecting its Latin and Greek roots. The genus name, Fasciolopsis, comes from the Latin word for "band" or "strap," while the species name, buski, honors the 19th century German pathologist Albert Theodor Eduard Busk. Pronouncing the word correctly will ensure clear communication among health professionals and researchers studying the parasite.
Fasciolopsis buski is a parasitic trematode known as the giant intestinal fluke, which belongs to the family Fasciolidae. This species is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, especially in countries like China, India, and Indonesia.
The adult Fasciolopsis buski is characterized by its large size and flat body, measuring up to 7 centimeters in length. It primarily resides in the duodenum and jejunum of various mammals, including humans, pigs, and dogs. The life cycle of this parasite involves two primary hosts - a freshwater snail as an intermediate host and a mammalian host as the definitive host.
Infection occurs when humans consume aquatic vegetation or water contaminated with the larvae of Fasciolopsis buski. Once ingested, the larvae penetrate the intestinal wall and migrate through the liver and bile ducts, eventually reaching the small intestine as adults. This process can cause severe damage to the intestinal lining, leading to various symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, malnutrition, and even intestinal obstruction.
Diagnosis of Fasciolopsis buski infection is typically achieved through the identification of parasite eggs in fecal samples using microscopy or through immunological tests. Treatment involves the administration of anthelmintic drugs, such as praziquantel or bithionol, to eradicate the parasite. Additionally, improving sanitation and hygiene practices, as well as avoiding the consumption of contaminated water or food, can help prevent the transmission of Fasciolopsis buski.
Distomum buski, D. crassum, a species found in the intestine of man in Eastern and Southern Asia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Fasciolopsis buski" is a scientific name used to refer to a parasitic flatworm, commonly known as the "giant intestinal fluke". The term "Fasciolopsis" is derived from the combination of two Latin words: "fasciola", meaning "band" or "ribbon"; and "opsis", meaning "resembling". This name describes the flat, ribbon-like shape of the adult worm.
The specific epithet "buski" is named after a German zoologist named Busk, who first described the species in 1843. Busk is credited with providing the initial scientific classification and understanding of this particular type of fluke. Therefore, the name "Fasciolopsis buski" honors the contribution of Busk to the study of parasitology.