Acanthocheilonema

Acanthocheilonema

Life cycle of ''Acanthocheilonema''.

Acanthocheilonema is a genus of parasitic nematodes that primarily infects mammals, including humans. These worms are commonly known as filarial worms and are responsible for causing various diseases in their hosts. The genus Acanthocheilonema belongs to the family Onchocercidae, which includes several other important parasitic nematodes.

Taxonomy

The genus Acanthocheilonema was first described by Leidy in 1856. It is classified under the phylum Nematoda, class Secernentea, and order Spirurida. Within the family Onchocercidae, Acanthocheilonema is further divided into several species, including Acanthocheilonema viteae, Acanthocheilonema reconditum, and Acanthocheilonema dracunculoides.

Morphology

Adult Acanthocheilonema worms are typically long and slender, measuring several centimeters in length. They have a cylindrical body with a pointed head and a tapered tail. The cuticle of these worms is smooth and transparent, allowing them to move easily within the host's tissues. Male worms possess a curved posterior end, while females have a straight posterior end.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Acanthocheilonema involves both intermediate and definitive hosts. The adult worms reside in the lymphatic system or subcutaneous tissues of the definitive host, where they reproduce sexually. The female worms release microfilariae, which are tiny larvae, into the bloodstream of the host. These microfilariae can be ingested by blood-feeding arthropods, such as mosquitoes or ticks, during a blood meal.

Once inside the arthropod, the microfilariae develop into infective larvae within the arthropod's body. When the infected arthropod bites another host, the infective larvae are transmitted to the new host. In the new host, the larvae migrate to the lymphatic system or other tissues, where they mature into adult worms, completing the life cycle.

Pathology

Acanthocheilonema infections can lead to various diseases depending on the species involved. For example, Acanthocheilonema viteae primarily infects rodents and can cause subcutaneous nodules and dermatitis. Acanthocheilonema reconditum is commonly found in dogs and can cause mild skin irritation. Acanthocheilonema dracunculoides infects carnivores and can cause severe inflammation and nodules in the subcutaneous tissues.

Treatment and Prevention

The treatment of Acanthocheilonema infections typically involves the use of anthelmintic drugs, such as ivermectin or diethylcarbamazine. These drugs help to kill the adult worms and microfilariae, reducing the symptoms and preventing further transmission. In some cases, surgical removal of nodules or lesions may be necessary.

Prevention of Acanthocheilonema infections primarily involves controlling the arthropod vectors that transmit the infective larvae. This can be achieved through the use of insecticides, bed nets, and other protective measures to reduce exposure to infected arthropods.

See Also

• Nematoda
• Parasitic Worms
• Onchocercidae