Parasitology Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to parasitology, historical figures, modes of transmission, and effects of various parasites.

Final diagnosis

Proper methods of treatment require the identification of the parasite in the laboratory.

Francesco Redi

Known as the grandfather of Parasitology; demonstrated maggots developed from fly eggs and published a book on Ascaris.

Anton Van Leeuwenhoek

Devised simple microscopes and described various kinds of protozoa.

Anton Van Leeuwenhoek

Pioneered the study of microscopic life and contributed to the understanding of protozoa.

Trichinella

Discovered by Peacock in human flesh and by Leidig in pigs; important for identifying parasitic infections.

Entamoeba histolytica

A protozoan that erodes the intestinal wall, destroying tissues with proteolytic enzymes.

Transmission modes

Include ingestion, inhalation, skin penetration, and bites by vectors.

Duffy blood group

Indicates racial variations in resistance to Plasmodium vivax infection.

Ascaris lumbricoides

A helminth that can perforate the bowel wall, causing complications such as intestinal obstruction.

Hookworms

Parasites that deprive the host of iron, leading to anemia.

Sanitary control

Involves management of water, food, living and working conditions, and waste disposal to prevent infection.

Modes of transmission

Refers to the ways in which parasites spread from one host to another.