Ancylostoma

Parasite140080-fig3 Gastrointestinal parasites in seven primates of the Taï National Park - Helminths Figure 3d

Ancylostoma is a genus of parasitic nematodes or roundworms known commonly as hookworms. These parasites infect the small intestine of mammals, including humans, dogs, and cats, leading to the disease known as ancylostomiasis or hookworm disease. Ancylostoma species are characterized by their mouthparts, which contain teeth or cutting plates used to attach to the intestinal wall of their hosts, from which they feed on blood. This feeding behavior can cause significant health issues, including anemia, protein loss, and in severe cases, death.

Species

Among the species within the Ancylostoma genus, two are particularly notorious for their impact on human health: Ancylostoma duodenale and Ancylostoma braziliense. Ancylostoma duodenale is primarily found in temperate climates and is a major cause of disease in humans, while Ancylostoma braziliense more commonly affects animals but can cause cutaneous larva migrans in humans.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Ancylostoma species involves several stages, starting with the egg, which is excreted in the feces of an infected host. In warm, moist soil, the eggs hatch into larvae, which undergo two molts before becoming infective. Humans and other mammals acquire the infection through direct contact with contaminated soil, where the infective larvae can penetrate the skin. Once inside the host, the larvae migrate to the lungs, then to the trachea, are swallowed, and finally reach the small intestine, where they mature into adult worms and begin the cycle anew by laying eggs.

Symptoms and Treatment

Infection with Ancylostoma can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild abdominal discomfort to severe anemia and malnutrition. The severity of symptoms is often related to the number of worms present in the intestines. Treatment typically involves the use of anthelmintic medications, such as albendazole or mebendazole, which are effective in eliminating the worms.

Prevention

Preventive measures against Ancylostoma infection include wearing shoes in endemic areas to avoid skin contact with contaminated soil, proper disposal of feces to prevent soil contamination, and deworming of pets.

Economic and Social Impact

Ancylostoma infection remains a significant public health concern in many developing countries, where it contributes to the cycle of poverty by impairing the physical and cognitive development of infected individuals. Efforts to control and eliminate the disease include mass drug administration programs and improvements in sanitation and hygiene.