Ancylostoma braziliense

Ancylostoma braziliense is a species of parasitic hookworm that primarily affects cats and dogs in tropical and subtropical regions. It is also known to cause cutaneous larva migrans, a skin disease in humans.

Overview

Ancylostoma braziliense is a small, slender worm that belongs to the Ancylostomatidae family. It is one of the most common hookworms found in cats and dogs, particularly in the Americas. The adult worms live in the small intestine of the host, where they attach to the intestinal wall and feed on the host's blood.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Ancylostoma braziliense begins when the eggs are passed in the feces of the infected host. The eggs hatch into larvae in the environment, which can then infect a new host either by penetrating the skin or by being ingested. Once inside the host, the larvae migrate to the small intestine, where they mature into adult worms.

Human Infection

While Ancylostoma braziliense primarily infects cats and dogs, it can also infect humans. The larvae can penetrate the skin and cause cutaneous larva migrans, a condition characterized by itchy, serpentine tracks on the skin. However, the larvae cannot mature into adult worms in humans, so the infection is self-limiting.

Prevention and Control

Prevention of Ancylostoma braziliense infection involves regular deworming of pets and avoiding contact with contaminated soil. Control measures include proper disposal of pet feces and maintaining clean environments.

See Also

• Ancylostoma caninum
• Ancylostoma duodenale
• Necator americanus
• Hookworm infection

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