Theileriidae

A family of parasitic protozoa

Overview

The Theileriidae is a family of parasitic protozoa within the phylum Apicomplexa. Members of this family are known to infect a variety of vertebrate hosts, primarily mammals and birds. The family is named after the genus Theileria, which includes several species of veterinary importance.

Taxonomy

The family Theileriidae belongs to the order Piroplasmida, which also includes the family Babesiidae. The Theileriidae family is characterized by its complex life cycle, which involves both vertebrate and invertebrate hosts, typically ticks.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Theileriidae involves two main hosts: a vertebrate host, where the protozoa undergo asexual reproduction, and an invertebrate host, usually a tick, where sexual reproduction occurs. The cycle begins when a tick feeds on an infected vertebrate host, ingesting the protozoa. Inside the tick, the protozoa undergo sexual reproduction and form sporozoites, which are then transmitted to a new vertebrate host during the tick's next blood meal.

Pathogenesis

Species within the Theileriidae family are responsible for several diseases in animals. For example, Theileria parva is the causative agent of East Coast fever, a serious disease affecting cattle in sub-Saharan Africa. The infection leads to severe anemia, fever, and often death if untreated.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Theileriidae infections typically involves the identification of the protozoa in blood smears or through molecular techniques such as PCR. Treatment often includes the use of antiprotozoal drugs, and control measures focus on managing tick populations to prevent transmission.

Prevention

Preventive measures against Theileriidae infections include tick control strategies, such as the use of acaricides, and the development of vaccines. Research is ongoing to improve the efficacy of these interventions.

Related pages

• Apicomplexa
• Piroplasmida
• Theileria
• East Coast fever
• Tick