Fasciolopsis rathouisi is a large trematode parasite that infects the intestines of pigs and occasionally humans. The first word, Fasciolopsis, is spelled /fəˌsioʊˈlɒpsɪs/ and contains the two roots "fasciola," meaning "small band," and "opsis," meaning "appearance." The second word, rathouisi, is spelled /ræθˈuːsi/ and is named after the French parasitologist, Théodore Rathouis. Understanding the phonetic transcription is crucial for proper pronunciation and communication in scientific fields, as well as for language learners.
Fasciolopsis rathouisi is a species of trematode parasite that belongs to the family Fasciolidae. It is commonly known as the giant intestinal fluke and is primarily found in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries such as China, India, Indonesia, and Thailand.
This parasitic flatworm has a complex life cycle and infects a variety of mammals, including humans. Its definitive hosts are humans and pigs, while intermediate hosts include freshwater snails and aquatic plants. Humans become infected when they consume raw or undercooked aquatic plants contaminated with the larval stage of Fasciolopsis rathouisi.
Once ingested, the larvae migrate through the intestinal wall, reaching the liver where they mature into adult flukes. These flukes then travel to the small intestine, where they attach themselves to the intestinal lining using their suckers. They feed on host blood and tissue, causing inflammation, ulcers, and other gastrointestinal problems.
Symptoms of Fasciolopsis rathouisi infection in humans may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and weight loss. Severe cases can lead to intestinal obstruction, liver damage, and anemia. Diagnosis often involves examining stool samples for the presence of parasite eggs.
Treatment typically involves anti-parasitic medications such as praziquantel, which can effectively kill the adult flukes. In addition to drug therapy, preventive measures such as avoiding raw or undercooked aquatic plants and ensuring proper hygiene practices are crucial in preventing the transmission of this parasite.
Distomum rathouisi, found in only a few recorded cases in the intestine or liver in Chinese.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Fasciolopsis rathouisi" is actually a combination of two separate words:
1. "Fasciolopsis": The term "Fasciolopsis" comes from the Latin words "fasciola" meaning "little band" or "ribbon", and "opsis" meaning "appearance" or "resembling". This term refers to the appearance of the genus Fasciolopsis, which consists of ribbon-like or flatworm parasites that resemble bands.
2. "rathouisi": The specific epithet "rathouisi" is derived from the name of the French parasitologist, Albert-Charles-Joseph Rathouis. He was a renowned scientist in the field of parasitology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Naming the species after Rathouis was a way to honor his contributions and recognize his work in the field.