Dracunculus medinensis Flashcards
(13 cards)
What are the common names of Dracunculus medinensis?
Guinea Worm
Fiery Serpent of the Israelites
Medina Worm
Dragon Worm
Serpent Worm
What is the size distinction of Dracunculus medinensis?
Longest nematode of humans (up to 1 meter)
What is the diagnostic stage of Dracunculus medinensis?
Adult worm identified through manual removal from skin ulcers
What is the infective stage of Dracunculus medinensis?
Larva (third-stage larva inside copepods)
What is the mode of transmission of Dracunculus medinensis?
Ingestion of copepods (tiny crustaceans) infected with larvae through contaminated water
Where does the adult worm reside in the body?
Subcutaneous tissue (under the skin)
Briefly describe the life cycle of Dracunculus medinensis.
Human drinks contaminated water → larvae released in stomach → mature in intestines → migrate to skin → form blisters → female worm releases larvae in water → copepods ingest larvae → cycle repeats
In what regions is Dracunculus medinensis found?
Africa, India, Asia, Pakistan, Middle East (in areas with stagnant or untreated water sources)
What are the clinical symptoms of Dracunculus medinensis infection?
Allergic reaction, secondary bacterial infection, painful ulcers, nodule formation from worm calcification
How is Dracunculus medinensis diagnosed?
By observing emerging worms from skin ulcers or inducing emergence with cool water
Is there a specific medication for Dracunculus medinensis?
No specific medicine is available
What is the treatment method for Dracunculus medinensis?
Manual extraction using this process: 1. Place affected limb in cool water 2. Worm breaks through skin blister 3. Clean wound 4. Wind worm around stick and slowly extract 5. Apply topical antibiotics
How can Dracunculus medinensis be prevented?
Properly treat drinking water
avoid drinking and bathing in the same water source
Prevent standing water contamination
Community education in endemic areas
Total eradication is unlikely
