Introduction to Parasites Flashcards
What is a parasite?
An organism that lives in another (host) organism and gets its food from the host’s expense
What are the three classifications of parasites?
Protozoa, helminths (worms) and arthropods
What are protozoa?
Single cells, able to multiply in humans
What species of plasmodium has the highest associated malarial mortality rate?
Plasmodium falciparum
How is malaria tested for?
Giemsa stained blood film shows infected red cells (both thick and thin blood films have a variety of speeds as diagnostic tests)
What is the natural history of malarial infection?
Sporozoites injected under skin by mosquito, travel to liver and mature - re-enter circulation and invade red cells - sexual forms are taken up by mosquitos
Malarial control is achieved how?
Insecticide treated nets (ITNs) and Prophylaxis (preventative treatment)
