NECATOR AMERICANUS Meaning and
Definition
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Necator americanus is a species of parasitic nematode, commonly referred to as the New World hookworm. It belongs to the family Ancylostomatidae and is a prominent human parasite found predominantly in tropical and subtropical regions.
The New World hookworm is a small, thread-like worm measuring about 1 centimeter in length with a characteristic hook-like appearance at its anterior end. It infects humans by penetrating the skin, typically through bare feet, when in contact with contaminated soil or areas where the parasite is prevalent. Once inside the host, Necator americanus migrates to the small intestines, where it attaches itself to the intestinal wall and feeds on the host's blood.
The life cycle of Necator americanus involves the production of eggs in the intestines, which are then excreted through the host's feces. Under favorable environmental conditions, the eggs hatch into larvae, enabling the transmission of the parasite to new hosts.
Infection by Necator americanus can lead to a condition known as hookworm disease, or hookworm infection. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, malnutrition, anemia, and in severe cases, growth retardation, cognitive impairment, and developmental disorders, particularly in children. The disease can have a significant impact on socioeconomic development, as it affects the productivity and cognitive abilities of those infected.
Prevention and control of Necator americanus infection involve various measures, including improved sanitation and hygiene practices, wearing of protective footwear, regular deworming, and access to clean water sources, particularly in areas where the parasite is endemic.
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Uncinaria americana, new-world hookworm.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NECATOR AMERICANUS
- becator americanus
- mecator americanus
- jecator americanus
- hecator americanus
- nwcator americanus
- nscator americanus
- ndcator americanus
- nrcator americanus
- n4cator americanus
- n3cator americanus
- nexator americanus
- nevator americanus
- nefator americanus
- nedator americanus
- necztor americanus
- necstor americanus
- necwtor americanus
- necqtor americanus
- necaror americanus
- necafor americanus
Etymology of NECATOR AMERICANUS
The word "Necator americanus" is derived from Latin and can be broken down into two parts:
1. "Necator" - This term comes from the Latin verb "necare", which means "to kill" or "to murder". "Necator" in Latin translates to "killer" or "murderer". This term was chosen to describe the parasitic nature of the organism.
2. "Americanus" - This term refers to the geographical origin of the species. It is derived from the Latin word "Americānus", which means "pertaining to America" or "of American origin".
When combined, "Necator americanus" can be translated as "American killer" or "killer of America", referring to the species' parasitic nature and its prevalence in the Americas.
