Filaria labialis is a type of parasitic worm that can infect humans and animals. The spelling of this word is based on its Latin roots. "Filaria" comes from the Latin word "filum" meaning "thread", and "labialis" comes from "labium" meaning "lip". In IPA phonetic transcription, "fɪˈleəriə ləˈbaɪəlɪs" would be pronounced. This word can be difficult to pronounce without the IPA, making it important to understand the roots and sounds of the word.
Filaria labialis is a medical term used to describe a type of filarial infection that affects the lips. Filaria refers to a group of parasitic worms known as filariae, which are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These worms belong to the family Onchocercidae and are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
When the filariae infect the human body, they specifically target the lymphatic system, causing a condition known as lymphatic filariasis. Filaria labialis specifically affects the lips, causing inflammation, swelling, and discomfort. It is characterized by the presence of adult worms, called filariae, within the affected tissues.
The transmission of Filaria labialis occurs when infected mosquito species, such as Anopheles, Aedes, or Culex, feed on human blood. During the blood meal, the mosquito inadvertently transfers microscopic larvae, known as microfilariae, into the person's bloodstream. These microfilariae grow and develop into adult worms within the lymphatic vessels, leading to the manifestation of the disease.
Symptoms of Filaria labialis may vary but often include pain, tenderness, swelling, and redness on the lips. In severe cases, there may be the formation of nodules or abscesses. Diagnosis typically involves identifying microfilariae in a blood sample or surgically removing adult worms from the affected area.
Treatment for Filaria labialis usually involves drug therapy, primarily consisting of antiparasitic medications such as diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or ivermectin. In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to remove the adult worms or manage complications. Preventive measures include vector control, such as using bed nets and
A species one specimen of which was extracted from a pustule of the lip.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word Filaria labialis is a scientific name derived from Latin and Greek roots.
- Filaria comes from the Latin word filum, which means thread or filament. It refers to the long, thread-like appearance of the parasite.
- Labialis is derived from the Latin word labium, which means lip. It refers to the location where the parasite is commonly found, which is in the tissues around the lips or the mouth.
Therefore, the etymology of Filaria labialis translates to thread-like parasite around the lips.