Amphistomiasis

Amphistomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematodes of the genus Amphistomum. The disease primarily affects ruminant animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats, but can also infect humans in rare cases. The parasites are typically found in the rumen and reticulum of the infected animals, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and in severe cases, death.

Etiology

The causative agents of amphistomiasis are flukes of the genus Amphistomum. These parasites have a complex life cycle involving a snail intermediate host and a definitive ruminant host. The adult flukes lay eggs in the rumen and reticulum of the host, which are then passed out in the feces. The eggs hatch in water to release miracidia, which infect snails. Inside the snail, the miracidia develop into cercariae, which are released into the water and encyst on vegetation to form metacercariae. These are ingested by the ruminant host, completing the life cycle.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of amphistomiasis can vary depending on the number of parasites and the age of the host. Common symptoms include diarrhea, weight loss, and reduced milk production. In severe cases, the disease can cause death. Diagnosis is typically made by identifying the eggs of the parasite in the feces of the infected animal.

Treatment and Control

Treatment of amphistomiasis involves the use of anthelmintic drugs to kill the parasites. Control measures include regular deworming of animals and avoiding grazing in areas where the snail intermediate hosts are prevalent.

See Also

• Parasitic diseases of animals
• Trematode infections

Amphistomiasis Resources
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