Gongylonema

Gongylonema is a genus of nematodes that belong to the family Gongylonematidae. These parasites are commonly found in the esophagus of various mammals, including humans. The most common species affecting humans is Gongylonema pulchrum.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Gongylonema involves two hosts. The definitive host, where the adult worms live, is usually a mammal. The intermediate host, where the larvae develop, is usually an insect. The adult worms live in the esophagus of the definitive host and lay eggs that are passed out in the feces. These eggs are then ingested by the intermediate host. The larvae hatch in the intermediate host and develop into infective larvae. When the definitive host eats the intermediate host, the infective larvae are released and migrate to the esophagus, where they mature into adult worms.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Infection with Gongylonema is known as gongylonemiasis. Symptoms can include a sensation of something moving in the throat, cough, and difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis is usually made by identifying the adult worms in the esophagus during an endoscopy or by finding eggs in a stool sample.

Treatment

Treatment for gongylonemiasis typically involves the use of anthelmintic drugs, such as ivermectin or albendazole. In some cases, the worms can be physically removed during an endoscopy.

Epidemiology

Gongylonema infections are most common in rural areas where people have close contact with livestock and insects. The infection is found worldwide, but is most common in Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe.

See Also

• Nematode
• Parasitology
• Gongylonema pulchrum
• Gongylonemiasis

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