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Introduction
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Symptoms
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Introduction
| Trichuriasis,
also commonly known as whipworm,
is a disease caused by the roundworm (nematode) Trichuris trichiura.
Whipworm is the third most common round worm infection in humans,
behind Ascariasis and hookworm. |
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The worm looks
like a whip as it’s common name suggests, with a thick posterior
end, and a long, thin head.
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Picture
of a Whipworm from http://thailabonline.com
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Infections
are acquired by ingesting eggs that have been passed in the feces
of other infected individuals. The adult worms reside in the gut
where they intertwine their heads in the lining of the large intestine.
Light infections are usually asymptomatic, although heavy infections
can cause diarrhea, mucous stools, abdominal pain, painful urination,
and a prolapsed rectum. Heavy infections in children can cause
nutritional deficiencies. Whipworm is prevalent in countries with
poor sanitation, and can be seen in Asia, Africa, South America,
Europe and North America. |
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