Parasitology: Arthropods

Arthropods

invasive or superficial (infestation)
aerobic (kill by suffocation)
multicellular

Pathogenic agent

arthropod itself

Vector

venom, egg

Arachnida

spiders, scorpions

Spiders

black widow, brown recluse

Spiders: mechanism for disease

venom
-worried about kids (more severe complication)

more dilute

venom in a bigger person

Spiders: symptoms (normal)

muscle cramps, chest pain, nauseas, vomiting, diaphoresis, visual difficulties

Spiders: symptoms (severe)

paralysis, coma, death

Spiders: treatment

self-limiting
antivenom (antivenin) --> antibodies (passive immunization)

Spiders: prevention

avoid black widows and brown recluses

Scorpions: mech. for disease

hemolytic toxin, neurotoxin

Scorpions: symptoms (normal)

burning pain, swelling and necrosis @ sting site

Scorpions: symptoms (severe)

chills, diaphoresis, salivations, muscle spasms, seizures, death

Scorpions: treatment

Cold: slows blood flow --> decreases toxin distribution
antivenom

Scorpions: prevention

don't get stung

Insecta

insects as vectors vs pathogens
mites

Insects as vectors

bacteria, parasites, viruses

Insects as pathogens

bites that are self-limiting or need treatment

Mosquitos, bed bugs, gnat, fleas

cause annoying bites that are self-limiting

lice, crabs

cause annoying bites that need treatment

Mites (lice): mech. for disease

deposition of eggs

Mites (lice): symptoms

itching

Mites (lice): treatment

be bald, special shampoos (suffocate)

Mites (lice): prevention

no hair, treat individuals who have it