How Do You Spell DRACUNCULUS LOA?

1. Dracunculus loa is a species of parasitic worm that belongs to the family Dracunculidae. It is commonly known as the Loa loa or African eye worm. This nematode is endemic to the rainforests of Central and West Africa and is responsible for causing loiasis, a parasitic infection in humans.

   The adult female Dracunculus loa measures around 40 to 70 millimeters in length and has a thread-like appearance. The larvae of the worm are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected deer flies or mango flies of the species Chrysops. Upon entering the human body, the larvae mature into adult worms and migrate beneath the skin, usually along the subcutaneous tissues.

   Loiasis infection typically presents with symptoms such as itching, localized swelling, and redness in the affected area. The movement of the worms under the skin can sometimes cause inflammation and pain. In severe cases, the worm may migrate to other parts of the body, including the eyes and joints, leading to visual disturbances and joint pain.

   Diagnosis of Dracunculus loa infection is often confirmed by visualizing the worm either by physical examination or through microscopy examination of skin snips. Treatment for loiasis usually involves the administration of medications such as diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or albendazole to kill the adult worms and relieve symptoms.

   Prevention of Dracunculus loa infection primarily focuses on controlling the population of Chrysops flies and avoiding their bites. Protective measures like wearing long sleeves, applying insect repellents, and using bed nets can also help reduce the risk of contracting loiasis.

2. Filaria loa.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for DRACUNCULUS LOA

The word "Dracunculus" originates from Latin, where "draco" means "dragon" and "unculus" means "little", so "Dracunculus" translates to "little dragon". This term was used to describe the Guinea worm (Dracunculus medinensis).

The second part of the name, "loa", is derived from the Loa River in Sudan, where the disease caused by this worm was first reported. The Loa River is located in the Loa loa endemic region in Central and West Africa.

Therefore, "Dracunculus loa" combines the Latin word for "little dragon" with the name of the Loa River, signifying the species of parasitic worm found in the Loa River region.