TRICHINIASIS Meaning and
Definition
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Trichiniasis refers to a parasitic infection caused by the nematode worm Trichinella spiralis. This condition primarily affects mammals, including humans, and is often contracted through the consumption of poorly cooked or raw meat products, particularly pork or wild game. Upon ingestion, the larvae of the parasite are released in the small intestine, where they mature into adult worms. The female worms in turn produce more larvae, which then migrate to different tissues and organs in the body through the bloodstream.
The symptoms of trichiniasis typically present within one to two days after consuming infected meat. Initially, individuals may experience abdominal discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea. The infection then progresses to muscle pain and tenderness, particularly in the limbs, as the larvae penetrate the muscle tissue and develop into cysts. Other symptoms may manifest as fever, fatigue, facial swelling, conjunctivitis, and occasionally, neurological complications.
A diagnosis of trichiniasis is commonly made through a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests to detect specific antibodies, and in some cases, muscle biopsies. Treatment involves the use of medications such as albendazole or mebendazole to eliminate the adult worms and larvae residing in the body. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
Prevention of trichiniasis largely revolves around proper cooking techniques and food safety practices. Thoroughly cooking meat at high temperatures is essential to kill the parasite's larvae. Freezing meat at extremely low temperatures (-15°C or lower) for an extended period can also help to effectively render the parasite inactive. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, and properly inspecting and handling meat products can contribute to preventing trichiniasis
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The disease produced by trichinous meat; the disease of trichinous meat.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TRICHINIASIS
- rrichiniasis
- frichiniasis
- grichiniasis
- yrichiniasis
- 6richiniasis
- 5richiniasis
- teichiniasis
- tdichiniasis
- tfichiniasis
- ttichiniasis
- t5ichiniasis
- t4ichiniasis
- truchiniasis
- trjchiniasis
- trkchiniasis
- trochiniasis
- tr9chiniasis
- tr8chiniasis
- trixhiniasis
- trichiniasus
Etymology of TRICHINIASIS
The word "trichiniasis" derives from the Greek word "trichinos", meaning "hair-like" or "full of hairs". This term is derived from "trichinos", which means "hair" or "small thread". The suffix "-iasis" is derived from the Greek word "-iasis", indicating a condition or disease. Therefore, "trichiniasis" literally means "a condition or disease caused by the presence of hair-like organisms". This term is specifically used to refer to the parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Trichinella spiralis, which form cysts in muscle tissues.
Similar spelling words for TRICHINIASIS
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