OXYUROIDEA Meaning and
Definition
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Oxyuroidea refers to a superfamily of parasitic worms in the phylum Nematoda. These worms are commonly known as pinworms or threadworms and are known for infecting humans and other animals. The superfamily Oxyuroidea is composed of several species within the family Oxyuridae, including Enterobius vermicularis which is the most prevalent and medically important species.
Oxyuroidea worms are small and thread-like in appearance, typically measuring around 0.5 to 1 centimeter in length as adults. They have a cylindrical body shape with a tapered anterior end and a straight or slightly curved posterior end. The body is covered in a tough cuticle that helps protect the worm from the host's immune system and facilitates anchorage to the intestinal wall.
These parasites reside in the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the large intestine and cecum. Adult female pinworms migrate towards the anus during the night to lay their eggs in the perianal region. This process often leads to intense itching and discomfort, especially in the evening and at night. The eggs become infective after a few hours and can survive for up to two weeks in the environment.
Oxyuroidea infections are typically transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food, water, or fecal matter. They are more common in crowded environments, such as schools or institutions, where the transmission can occur easily. Infection rates tend to be higher in children but can also affect adults.
Treatment of Oxyuroidea infections usually involves the use of anthelmintic medications to eliminate the adult worms and their eggs. Additionally, measures to improve personal and environmental hygiene are essential to prevent reinfection and stop the transmission cycle.
Common Misspellings for OXYUROIDEA
- oxyuroidae
- oxyuridea
- ixyuroidea
- kxyuroidea
- lxyuroidea
- pxyuroidea
- 0xyuroidea
- 9xyuroidea
- ozyuroidea
- ocyuroidea
- odyuroidea
- osyuroidea
- oxturoidea
- oxguroidea
- oxhuroidea
- oxuuroidea
- ox7uroidea
- ox6uroidea
- oxyyroidea
- oxyhroidea
Etymology of OXYUROIDEA
The word "Oxyuroidea" is derived from the ancient Greek roots "oxy" meaning "sharp" or "pointed" and "ouros" meaning "tail". The suffix "-oidea" is used in taxonomy to denote a superfamily or a group of organisms that share a common ancestry or morphology. Therefore, "Oxyuroidea" refers to a superfamily of parasitic worms known as pinworms, characterized by their pointy tails.
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