Understanding Strongyloides fuelleborni and its association with Swollen Belly Syndrome: A comprehensive overview of symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, and treatment

A primate parasite, has been isolated from humans in Africa and causes a severe life-threatening condition called”SWOLLEN BELLY SYNDROME.”A. Toxocara catiB. Toxocara canisC. Ancylostoma caninumD. Strongyloides fuelleborni

The correct answer is D, Strongyloides fuelleborni

The correct answer is D, Strongyloides fuelleborni.

Strongyloides fuelleborni is a parasitic nematode (roundworm) that can infect various primate species, including humans, in Africa. It is the causative agent of a condition known as “Swollen Belly Syndrome.”

Swollen Belly Syndrome, also referred to as Strongyloidiasis, is characterized by a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and chronic fatigue. The name of the condition comes from the observed swelling of the abdomen, which is often due to the accumulation of fluid or edema caused by the worm’s larvae migrating through the body.

This parasitic infection typically occurs through the skin, as the larvae can penetrate the human epidermis when individuals come into contact with soil or water contaminated with the worm’s larvae. Once inside the body, the larvae migrate through the bloodstream and eventually reach the lungs, where they can cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing. From the lungs, the larvae are then swallowed and continue their life cycle in the intestines, leading to abdominal symptoms.

The diagnosis of Strongyloidiasis is usually made through analyzing stool samples for the presence of the worm’s larvae. Treatment often involves antiparasitic drugs such as ivermectin or albendazole. In severe cases, hospitalization and additional supportive care may be required.

It is worth mentioning that the other options listed (Toxocara cati, Toxocara canis, and Ancylostoma caninum) are also parasitic worms that can infect primates, including humans, but they do not cause “Swollen Belly Syndrome.” Toxocara cati and Toxocara canis are commonly associated with visceral larva migrans, a condition characterized by larval migration and tissue damage in different organs. Ancylostoma caninum is known for causing cutaneous larva migrans, which is a skin condition resulting from the migration of the larvae.

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