MICROFILARIAE Meaning and
Definition
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Microfilariae are tiny, early-stage larvae of various parasitic nematode worms that are found inside the bodies of vertebrate hosts. These microscopic organisms are typically produced by adult female filarial worms, which reside within the lymphatic system or bloodstream of infected individuals. Microfilariae are important in the life cycle of these parasitic worms as they serve as the transmission stage, allowing the parasites to spread to other hosts and continue their life cycle.
Microfilariae are usually elongated and have distinct morphological features that differentiate them from other larval forms of worms. They possess a slim body shape with a pointed or rounded head and a slender tail. These larvae are found circulating in the blood or residing in certain tissues, such as the skin, eyes, or lymphatic vessels, depending on the specific type of filarial worm.
The presence of microfilariae in host tissue or blood samples is often indicative of filarial infections, such as lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, or Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm disease). Detection and identification of these larvae are frequently done through microscopic examination of blood smears or tissue biopsies, which allows for accurate diagnosis of such infections.
Control and treatment of diseases caused by microfilariae often involve anti-parasitic medications, which are effective in eliminating the larvae from the host's body. Preventive measures, such as the use of bed nets or insect repellents, can also be employed to reduce the risk of transmission.
Etymology of MICROFILARIAE
The word "microfilariae" is derived from the combination of two components: "micro" and "filariae".
1. "Micro" comes from the Greek word "mikrós", meaning "small" or "tiny". It is often used as a prefix in English to indicate something small in scale or size, as in words such as "microscope" or "microorganism".
2. "Filariae" is the plural form of the term "filaria". The word "filaria" comes from the Latin "filaria", which means "thread" or "string". Filariae are thread-like nematode parasites belonging to the family Filariidae. They are usually found in the lymphatic system of vertebrates, including humans.
