Thelazioidea

Thelazioidea is a superfamily of nematodes in the order Spirurida. The superfamily includes several species that are parasitic in the eyes of mammals, including humans. The most well-known species in this superfamily is Thelazia callipaeda, also known as the oriental eye worm.

Taxonomy

The superfamily Thelazioidea is part of the order Spirurida, which also includes other superfamilies such as Filarioidea and Dracunculoidea. The Thelazioidea superfamily includes two families: Thelaziidae and Pneumospiruridae.

Life cycle

The life cycle of Thelazioidea species involves a definitive host, usually a mammal, and an intermediate host, usually a fly. The adult worms live in the eyes of the definitive host, where they produce larvae. The larvae are ingested by the intermediate host, where they develop into infective larvae. The infective larvae are then transmitted back to the definitive host when the fly feeds on the host's eyes.

Pathogenicity

Thelazioidea species can cause a condition known as thelaziasis, which is characterized by inflammation of the eyes, tearing, and sometimes blindness. The condition is most commonly caused by Thelazia callipaeda, but other species can also cause thelaziasis.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment for thelaziasis involves the removal of the worms from the eyes, usually by a veterinarian or a medical professional. Prevention involves controlling the fly population and avoiding contact with flies.

See also

• Nematode
• Spirurida
• Thelazia callipaeda
• Thelaziasis

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