Condition Lookup
Category:
Parasitic Infections
Number of Conditions: 37
Acanthamoeba Infection
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
red eyes; severe eye pain; blurred vision; sensitivity to light; excessive tearing; corneal ulceration
Root Cause:
Infection caused by the Acanthamoeba protozoan, which invades the cornea, often due to contact lens use, contaminated water exposure, or corneal trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, corneal scraping for microscopic examination, culture for Acanthamoeba, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and confocal microscopy.
Treatment:
Intensive antimicrobial therapy, primarily with topical agents. Advanced cases may require corneal transplantation.
Medications:
Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) and chlorhexidine are antiseptics often prescribed for Acanthamoeba keratitis. Propamidine isethionate and neomycin (antibiotics) may be used in combination. Oral antifungal agents such as itraconazole may be used in severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but increasingly reported, particularly among contact lens users.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor contact lens hygiene, exposure to contaminated water (e.g., swimming pools, hot tubs), corneal trauma, and immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if diagnosed early; delayed treatment can result in severe vision impairment or blindness.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal scarring, secondary bacterial or fungal infections, and blindness.
African Trypanosomiasis (Sleeping Sickness)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; headache; joint pain; itching; swelling of lymph nodes; confusion; personality changes; severe sleep disturbances; neurological impairments
Root Cause:
Caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma brucei species transmitted via tsetse fly bites, leading to systemic and central nervous system infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear microscopy, serological tests, lumbar puncture to detect trypanosomes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Treatment:
Antiparasitic therapy, depending on the disease stage.
Medications:
Pentamidine (for early-stage T. brucei gambiense), suramin (for early-stage T. brucei rhodesiense), melarsoprol (for late-stage CNS involvement), eflornithine , or fexinidazole (recently approved oral treatment).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, with periodic outbreaks. Cases have decreased due to control programs.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or traveling to endemic areas, exposure to tsetse fly habitats, and lack of protective measures.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment leads to recovery; untreated cases are fatal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological damage, seizures, coma, and death in advanced stages.
Alveolar Echinococcosis (AE)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; weight loss; jaundice; liver enlargement; nausea; weakness
Root Cause:
Caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis, which forms invasive cysts, primarily in the liver.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI), serological testing for Echinococcus antibodies, and biopsy for definitive diagnosis.
Treatment:
Surgical removal of the lesion when possible, long-term antiparasitic therapy.
Medications:
Albendazole (anthelmintic) is the primary medication; mebendazole is an alternative.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, primarily found in the northern hemisphere, including parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with infected animals (e.g., dogs, foxes), consuming contaminated food or water, and living in endemic regions.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early detection and treatment; untreated cases have a poor prognosis due to invasive growth.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver failure, metastasis to other organs, secondary infections.
Amebiasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
diarrhea; abdominal pain; cramping; bloody stools; fever; weight loss
Root Cause:
Infection with Entamoeba histolytica through ingestion of contaminated food or water, causing intestinal and, in some cases, extraintestinal infections such as liver abscesses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for trophozoites or cysts, antigen detection tests, serological assays, imaging (ultrasound or CT) for liver abscesses.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, drainage of liver abscesses if necessary.
Medications:
Metronidazole or tinidazole (antiprotozoal drugs) are used for tissue-invasive disease, followed by luminal agents like paromomycin or iodoquinol to eliminate cysts in the intestine.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, contaminated water supply, close contact with infected individuals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; severe cases can lead to complications if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver abscesses, perforation of the colon, peritonitis, and dissemination to other organs.
Ascariasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; malnutrition; intestinal blockage; cough (during larval migration)
Root Cause:
Infection with Ascaris lumbricoides, a roundworm transmitted through ingestion of eggs from contaminated soil or food.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool analysis for eggs, imaging studies for intestinal obstruction, and sometimes ultrasound or CT for heavy infections.
Treatment:
Anthelmintic medications, sometimes surgery for complications.
Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole are commonly prescribed; pyrantel pamoate is an alternative.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Highly prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated soil or water, poor hygiene, and living in endemic areas.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; severe cases with complications may require additional interventions.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal obstruction, malnutrition, growth retardation in children, and migration of worms to other organs.
Babesiosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; chills; sweats; fatigue; headache; anemia; dark urine
Root Cause:
Infection with Babesia protozoa transmitted by Ixodes tick bites, leading to red blood cell destruction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear for Babesia parasites, PCR testing, or serological assays.
Treatment:
Combination antimicrobial therapy.
Medications:
Atovaquone (antiprotozoal) combined with azithromycin (antibiotic), or clindamycin with quinine in severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found in areas where Ixodes ticks are prevalent, such as the northeastern and upper midwestern United States.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Tick exposure, asplenia, advanced age, and immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for healthy individuals; severe disease in immunocompromised or splenectomized patients can be fatal without treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemolytic anemia, organ failure, and death in severe cases.
Balantidiasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
diarrhea; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; weight loss
Root Cause:
Infection with Balantidium coli, a ciliate protozoan, typically acquired from contaminated food or water.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for trophozoites or cysts; rarely, colonoscopy and biopsy.
Treatment:
Antiprotozoal therapy.
Medications:
Tetracycline is the first-line treatment; metronidazole or iodoquinol are alternatives.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, typically found in areas with poor sanitation and exposure to swine.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with pigs, contaminated water, and poor hygiene.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated severe cases may lead to complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Perforation of the colon, peritonitis.
Chagas Disease
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; swelling at infection site; fatigue; rash; digestive issues; cardiomyopathy
Root Cause:
Caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted via triatomine bug feces, blood transfusion, or congenitally.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear in acute stage, serological tests in chronic stage, and imaging for organ involvement.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic treatment for acute and early chronic phases; supportive care for complications.
Medications:
Benznidazole and nifurtimox are antiparasitic agents for early-stage treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in Latin America but increasingly reported in non-endemic regions due to migration.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in endemic areas, poor housing conditions, and exposure to triatomine bugs.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment improves outcomes; chronic cases may have severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias, megaesophagus, and megacolon.
Cryptosporidiosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; weight loss; dehydration
Root Cause:
Infection with Cryptosporidium species, primarily transmitted through ingestion of contaminated water or food.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool analysis using acid-fast staining, direct fluorescent antibody tests, or PCR for Cryptosporidium DNA.
Treatment:
Supportive care to prevent dehydration; specific antiparasitic therapy for immunocompromised individuals.
Medications:
Nitazoxanide (antiprotozoal) is the primary treatment. Antidiarrheal agents may be used for symptom control.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common worldwide, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals in low-resource settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated water sources, poor sanitation, immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for immunocompetent individuals; chronic or severe disease in immunosuppressed patients.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe dehydration, malnutrition, and chronic diarrhea in immunocompromised individuals.
Cutaneous Larva Migrans (CLM)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
itchy, winding rash; localized swelling; redness; burning sensation at the site of larval migration
Root Cause:
Caused by the larvae of hookworms (e.g., Ancylostoma braziliense) penetrating human skin, typically from contact with contaminated soil or sand.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis based on characteristic appearance of the rash and travel or exposure history.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications and symptomatic relief for itching.
Medications:
Albendazole or ivermectin (anthelmintics) are the primary treatments. Topical thiabendazole may be used for localized infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly among travelers or residents exposed to contaminated beaches or soil.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Walking barefoot on contaminated soil, contact with infected animals, or exposure in endemic areas.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; self-limiting in many cases but may last weeks to months without intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections due to scratching and prolonged irritation.
Cystoisosporiasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
watery diarrhea; abdominal pain; cramping; nausea; vomiting; weight loss; fever
Root Cause:
Infection with Cystoisospora belli (formerly known as Isospora belli), a parasitic protozoan that invades the epithelial cells of the small intestine.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of stool samples to detect oocysts; acid-fast staining or molecular tests (e.g., PCR) may be used.
Treatment:
Primarily with antiparasitic medication and supportive care (rehydration and nutritional support).
Medications:
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (antibiotic combination, also known as Bactrim ) is the first-line treatment. For sulfa-allergic patients, pyrimethamine with leucovorin (folic acid) may be used.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries; more common in tropical and subtropical regions and in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., HIV/AIDS).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, travel to or residence in endemic areas, poor sanitation, consumption of contaminated food or water.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; chronic or recurrent infections may occur in immunocompromised patients.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, dehydration, and significant weight loss, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Diphyllobothriasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal discomfort; nausea; diarrhea or constipation; weakness; weight loss; vitamin b12 deficiency symptoms like anemia or numbness
Root Cause:
Infection with the fish tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum), acquired through ingestion of raw or undercooked freshwater fish containing larvae.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Identification of eggs or segments (proglottids) in stool samples; PCR may be used for species confirmation.
Treatment:
Anthelmintic medications and nutritional supplementation for vitamin B12 deficiency if present.
Medications:
Praziquantel (anthelmintic) is the drug of choice. Niclosamide can also be used as an alternative.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in regions where raw or undercooked fish is consumed, such as Scandinavia, Russia, and parts of Japan, Peru, and North America.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Eating raw or undercooked freshwater fish, poor food preparation practices, or living in endemic areas.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; complications are rare.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe vitamin B12 deficiency leading to megaloblastic anemia, neurological symptoms, and intestinal obstruction in rare cases.
Dipylidiasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
mild gastrointestinal discomfort; diarrhea; abdominal pain; anal pruritus; irritability in children
Root Cause:
Infection with Dipylidium caninum, a tapeworm transmitted through ingestion of infected fleas or flea larvae.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detection of proglottids in stool or around the perianal area; microscopic identification of egg packets in stool samples.
Treatment:
Anthelmintic medications combined with flea control measures to prevent reinfection.
Medications:
Praziquantel (anthelmintic) is the treatment of choice.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic cases globally; commonly associated with children and pet owners due to close contact with dogs and cats.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to infected pets or fleas, lack of flea control, and poor hygiene practices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with treatment; minimal risk of complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare; potential reinfection if flea control is inadequate.
Dirofilariasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
subcutaneous nodules; pain or swelling at the site; pulmonary symptoms like cough, chest pain, or fever in cases of lung involvement
Root Cause:
Infection with Dirofilaria species, primarily Dirofilaria immitis or Dirofilaria repens, transmitted through mosquito bites.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Histological examination of excised nodules or imaging studies (e.g., chest X-ray or CT scan) for pulmonary involvement.
Treatment:
Surgical removal of nodules or lesions; antiparasitic drugs are not typically needed.
Medications:
No standard drug treatment; management is primarily surgical. Preventive measures include mosquito control.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found in tropical and temperate regions, particularly in areas with high mosquito populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or traveling to endemic areas, exposure to mosquitoes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate management; complications are rare.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary involvement can mimic malignancy, leading to invasive diagnostic procedures.
Echinococcosis (Hydatid Cyst)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; cyst-related pressure effects; allergic reactions if the cyst ruptures
Root Cause:
Infection with Echinococcus granulosus or Echinococcus multilocularis, causing cystic or alveolar echinococcosis, respectively.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), serological tests (ELISA, Western blot), and histopathological examination.
Treatment:
Surgical removal of cysts, percutaneous aspiration (PAIR technique), or antiparasitic drug therapy for inoperable cases.
Medications:
Albendazole and mebendazole (anthelmintics) are used to reduce cyst size or as adjuncts to surgery.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in sheep-raising regions such as the Middle East, Central Asia, South America, and parts of Africa.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with infected dogs, livestock farming, poor hygiene practices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; excellent with early intervention, but alveolar echinococcosis can be life-threatening if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cyst rupture leading to anaphylaxis, secondary bacterial infections, or dissemination of the infection.
Filariasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
lymphedema; elephantiasis; hydrocele; fever; lymphangitis
Root Cause:
Infection with filarial nematodes, primarily Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or Brugia timori, transmitted via mosquito bites.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood smear microscopy to detect microfilariae, antigen detection tests, and ultrasound for adult worms.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic drugs, supportive care for lymphedema, and surgical management of hydrocele or elephantiasis.
Medications:
Diethylcarbamazine (DEC), ivermectin , and albendazole are used alone or in combination.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting millions in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to mosquito bites in endemic areas, poor mosquito control measures.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable in early stages; chronic conditions may require long-term management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe lymphedema, secondary bacterial infections, and social stigma due to disfigurement.
Hookworm Disease
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
iron deficiency anemia; fatigue; abdominal pain; diarrhea; nausea; itching and rash at the site of skin penetration (ground itch)
Root Cause:
Infection with hookworms such as Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus, which attach to the intestinal lining and feed on blood.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for eggs or larvae; molecular methods may confirm the species.
Treatment:
Anthelmintic medications and iron supplementation for anemia.
Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole (anthelmintics) are the drugs of choice. Pyrantel pamoate can be used as an alternative.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in tropical and subtropical regions with poor sanitation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Walking barefoot on contaminated soil, poor sanitation, and inadequate access to clean water.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; untreated infections may lead to severe anemia and developmental delays in children.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic anemia, malnutrition, and growth retardation in children.
Intestinal Flukes
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; nausea; malabsorption; weakness
Root Cause:
Infection with trematodes such as Fasciolopsis buski, acquired through ingestion of raw or undercooked aquatic plants contaminated with metacercariae.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for eggs; imaging or serological tests may assist in diagnosis.
Treatment:
Anthelmintic medications and supportive care for symptoms.
Medications:
Praziquantel (anthelmintic) is the treatment of choice. Nitazoxanide may be considered in some cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in parts of Southeast Asia and India where aquatic plants are consumed.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consumption of contaminated water plants (e.g., water chestnuts), poor sanitation, and exposure to infected water sources.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; complications are rare.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic malabsorption and malnutrition if untreated.
Leishmaniasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; weight loss; swollen lymph nodes; skin sores; enlarged spleen and liver; anemia; fatigue
Root Cause:
Infection caused by Leishmania parasites transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of tissue samples, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serological tests, or parasite culture.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, supportive care for organ involvement, and wound management for skin lesions.
Medications:
Pentavalent antimonials (e.g., sodium stibogluconate, meglumine antimoniate), liposomal amphotericin B (especially for visceral leishmaniasis), miltefosine (an oral antiprotozoal), paromomycin (an aminoglycoside antibiotic).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting over 12 million people globally, with 1–2 million new cases annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor housing, malnutrition, deforestation, exposure to sandfly habitats, immunosuppression (e.g., HIV co-infection).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with timely medical intervention; visceral leishmaniasis can be fatal without treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis, secondary infections, organ damage, and chronic skin ulcers.
Loiasis (African Eye Worm)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
skin swelling (calabar swelling); migrating worms visible under the skin or in the eye; itching; joint pain; fatigue
Root Cause:
Caused by the Loa loa filarial worm transmitted through the bite of infected deerflies.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of blood samples (daytime blood smear), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and visualization of adult worms.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications to kill adult and larval worms, along with symptomatic treatment for itching and swelling.
Medications:
Diethylcarbamazine (DEC, an anti-helminthic), ivermectin (for larval microfilariae), albendazole (a broad-spectrum antiparasitic).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in rainforests of Central and West Africa; estimated 10–20 million people infected.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living or traveling in endemic regions, exposure to infected deerflies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with antiparasitics, but severe worm burden can cause complications during treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Kidney damage, heart problems, encephalopathy (rare, associated with high worm loads during treatment).
Malaria
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; chills; headache; nausea; vomiting; muscle pain; anemia; sweating; enlarged spleen
Root Cause:
Infection by Plasmodium parasites (e.g., P. falciparum, P. vivax) transmitted by infected Anopheles mosquitoes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopy (blood smears), rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Treatment:
Antimalarial medications, supportive care for complications (e.g., blood transfusions for severe anemia).
Medications:
Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs, e.g., artemether-lumefantrine), chloroquine (for chloroquine-sensitive strains), primaquine (for liver-stage hypnozoites), atovaquone-proguanil, and quinine .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 240 million people annually, with the highest burden in sub-Saharan Africa.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in endemic areas, lack of insecticide-treated bed nets, poverty, and pregnancy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable, but severe malaria can cause death if untreated, especially in children and pregnant women.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cerebral malaria, severe anemia, organ failure, and hypoglycemia.
Malaria Organism-Specific Therapy
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; chills; sweating; headache; nausea; vomiting; muscle aches; anemia
Root Cause:
Infection caused by specific Plasmodium species (P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, or P. knowlesi). Treatment tailored to the infecting species, drug resistance, and location.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopy, species-specific rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and PCR.
Treatment:
Therapy varies by species; includes addressing blood-stage parasites and dormant liver stages (P. vivax and P. ovale).
Medications:
P. falciparum - Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs, e.g., artemether-lumefantrine). P. vivax - Chloroquine or ACTs for blood-stage; primaquine or tafenoquine for liver-stage hypnozoites. P. malariae and P. ovale - Similar to P. vivax protocols. P. knowlesi - Treated with ACTs or chloroquine .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Regional variations; P. falciparum most common in Africa, P. vivax predominant outside sub-Saharan Africa.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Traveling or living in endemic areas, lack of preventive measures (e.g., bed nets, prophylaxis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Effective treatment reduces mortality; early diagnosis critical. Untreated cases can lead to severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe malaria, organ failure, cerebral malaria, hypoglycemia.
Microsporidiosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
chronic diarrhea; abdominal pain; weight loss; nausea; vomiting; fever; ocular inflammation (in cases of eye involvement)
Root Cause:
Caused by microsporidia, intracellular parasites primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopy (modified trichrome stain), PCR, and electron microscopy.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications, rehydration therapy, and managing underlying immunosuppression.
Medications:
Albendazole (a broad-spectrum antiparasitic) for systemic infections; fumagillin or topical agents for ocular infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found worldwide, particularly in HIV/AIDS patients and organ transplant recipients.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy), exposure to contaminated water or food.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable, but complications are more severe in immunocompromised individuals.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic malabsorption, systemic spread, and severe organ-specific infections.
Nematode Infections
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; malnutrition; anemia; skin rashes; itching; respiratory symptoms in some cases
Root Cause:
Caused by roundworms such as Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworms), and Strongyloides stercoralis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for eggs or larvae, blood tests for eosinophilia, and PCR for species identification.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications and supportive care for malnutrition or anemia.
Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole (broad-spectrum anti-helminthics), ivermectin (for strongyloidiasis), pyrantel pamoate (for specific nematodes).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects over 1.5 billion people worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor sanitation, contaminated water, lack of hygiene, barefoot walking in endemic areas.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable, but chronic infections can cause growth retardation and severe complications in children.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal obstruction, nutritional deficiencies, and systemic infection (e.g., disseminated strongyloidiasis).
Onchocerciasis (River Blindness)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
itching; skin rashes; nodules under the skin; vision changes; progressive blindness
Root Cause:
Caused by Onchocerca volvulus, a filarial worm transmitted by blackflies.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin snip biopsy, PCR, or detection of nodules and microfilariae.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications and community-wide treatment programs.
Medications:
Ivermectin (kills microfilariae), doxycycline (kills Wolbachia bacteria within adult worms).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Over 20 million affected, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, with smaller foci in Latin America and Yemen.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in or near fast-flowing rivers in endemic regions.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Treatable with ivermectin; blindness can be prevented with early treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Irreversible blindness, severe itching leading to skin damage, and nodular skin disease.
Pinworm (Enterobiasis)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
perianal itching; restlessness; irritability; abdominal pain; loss of appetite
Root Cause:
Caused by Enterobius vermicularis, a small intestinal nematode transmitted through ingestion of eggs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visualization of worms or eggs on the perianal area using the "tape test."
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medications and hygiene measures to prevent reinfection.
Medications:
Mebendazole or albendazole (broad-spectrum anti-helminthics), pyrantel pamoate .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common worldwide, especially among children in crowded settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor hygiene, close contact with infected individuals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Easily treatable with medications and proper hygiene.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rarely, chronic infections can cause appendicitis or other gastrointestinal issues.
Sarcosporidiosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
muscle pain; weakness; fever; diarrhea; nausea; subcutaneous nodules
Root Cause:
Caused by Sarcocystis parasites, typically transmitted through the ingestion of undercooked meat containing parasitic cysts or contaminated water.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool examination for oocysts, muscle biopsy for cyst identification, and serological tests for antibodies.
Treatment:
Management includes supportive care for symptomatic relief and antiparasitic medications for severe cases.
Medications:
Albendazole , an antiparasitic, is often prescribed. Corticosteroids may be used to manage inflammation in severe cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries; prevalence higher in regions with poor sanitation and raw meat consumption.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consumption of undercooked meat, poor sanitation, exposure to contaminated water.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with treatment, though chronic muscle symptoms may persist in some cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic muscle pain, weakness, and rare cases of systemic involvement.
Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
rash or itchy skin; fever; chills; cough; abdominal pain; diarrhea; blood in urine or stool; fatigue
Root Cause:
Caused by infection with Schistosoma parasites, transmitted through contact with freshwater containing the larval form of the parasite.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool or urine examination for eggs, serological tests, and imaging for organ involvement.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication is the main treatment, along with supportive care for complications.
Medications:
Praziquantel is the drug of choice, classified as an antiparasitic.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects over 200 million people worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to freshwater in endemic areas, lack of clean water access, poor sanitation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; chronic cases may lead to long-term organ damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver fibrosis, bladder cancer, infertility, and increased risk of portal hypertension.
Tapeworm Infestation
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; nausea; diarrhea; weight loss; visible segments in stool
Root Cause:
Caused by ingestion of Taenia or other tapeworm species through undercooked meat or contaminated water.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool sample analysis, serological tests for antibodies, and imaging for cysts.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication with symptomatic relief for gastrointestinal discomfort.
Medications:
Praziquantel and albendazole , classified as antiparasitics.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in regions with poor food safety and hygiene; global cases vary by tapeworm species.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Eating undercooked or raw meat, poor hygiene, and exposure to contaminated water or food.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment, but untreated cases may lead to severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Intestinal blockage, cysticercosis, and neurocysticercosis (when cysts develop in the brain).
Toxocariasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; cough; abdominal pain; wheezing; blurred vision
Root Cause:
Caused by larvae of Toxocara species, transmitted via ingestion of soil contaminated with animal feces.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for antibodies, imaging for organ involvement, and clinical symptoms.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic drugs and corticosteroids for severe inflammation.
Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole , both classified as antiparasitics.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found worldwide; higher prevalence in areas with poor sanitation.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with contaminated soil, owning pets not dewormed regularly.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; severe cases may result in long-term organ damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Ocular toxocariasis leading to vision loss, and visceral involvement causing organ damage.
Toxoplasmosis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
mild flu-like symptoms; swollen lymph nodes; muscle aches; fever
Root Cause:
Caused by Toxoplasma gondii, transmitted through undercooked meat, cat feces, or congenital infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for antibodies, PCR tests, and imaging for severe cases.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on severity and includes antiparasitic and antibiotic combinations.
Medications:
Pyrimethamine (antimalarial), sulfadiazine (antibiotic), and folinic acid for combination therapy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 30% of the global population is exposed; prevalence varies by region.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with cat feces, undercooked meat, and weakened immune system.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good in healthy individuals; severe or congenital cases may lead to long-term complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Encephalitis, vision problems, and severe outcomes in immunocompromised individuals.
Toxoplasmosis (Organism-Specific Therapy)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
severe headaches; fever; confusion; seizures; blurry vision
Root Cause:
Severe infection by Toxoplasma gondii, often in immunocompromised patients such as those with HIV/AIDS.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for antibodies, imaging for CNS involvement, and clinical presentation.
Treatment:
High-dose antiparasitic and antibiotic combination tailored to the severity of infection.
Medications:
High-dose pyrimethamine (antimalarial) and sulfadiazine (antibiotic), along with leucovorin to prevent folate deficiency.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Higher incidence in immunocompromised populations; overall prevalence similar to toxoplasmosis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Weakened immune system, HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Guarded in immunocompromised individuals; depends on timely diagnosis and treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological damage, vision loss, and recurrence in untreated cases.
Trematode Infection
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; abdominal pain; diarrhea; weight loss; jaundice (in liver fluke infections); cough and chest pain (in lung fluke infections)
Root Cause:
Trematode infections are caused by parasitic flatworms (flukes) that invade the gastrointestinal tract, liver, lungs, or blood, depending on the species.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Stool or urine examination to detect eggs, serologic tests, imaging (e.g., ultrasound, CT, or MRI) for organ involvement, and biopsy in some cases.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication, supportive care for symptoms, and in severe cases, surgical intervention for organ damage.
Medications:
Praziquantel , an antiparasitic medication that disrupts the parasite's membrane , is the primary treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Endemic in tropical and subtropical regions; common in areas with poor sanitation and close contact with freshwater sources.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish, crabs, or plants; exposure to contaminated water; poor sanitation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with early diagnosis and treatment, but untreated cases can lead to severe organ damage and complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Liver fibrosis, portal hypertension, cholangiocarcinoma, pulmonary complications, and secondary bacterial infections.
Trichinosis (Trichinellosis)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
fever; muscle pain; swelling of the face (particularly around the eyes); gastrointestinal distress (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting); weakness
Root Cause:
Infection by Trichinella nematodes due to consumption of undercooked meat (especially pork or wild game) containing larval cysts.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing elevated eosinophils, serologic tests, muscle biopsy (to detect larvae), and clinical history.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication combined with anti-inflammatory drugs to manage symptoms.
Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole , both of which inhibit the parasite’s ability to absorb nutrients, along with corticosteroids for severe inflammation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in developed countries due to improved food safety but more common in regions with traditional or underregulated meat preparation practices.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Eating raw or undercooked meat from pigs, bears, or other wild animals; poor meat inspection practices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; severe cases may cause long-term muscle damage or complications if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Myocarditis, encephalitis, pneumonia, and chronic muscle pain.
Trichomoniasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor (in women); itching or irritation of the genitals; painful urination; discomfort during intercourse; asymptomatic in many cases, especially in men
Root Cause:
Infection caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, primarily transmitted through sexual contact.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Microscopic examination of vaginal or urethral secretions, nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), or culture tests.
Treatment:
Antiparasitic medication, and simultaneous treatment of sexual partners to prevent reinfection.
Medications:
Metronidazole or tinidazole , both of which are nitroimidazole-class antibiotics that disrupt the parasite’s DNA synthesis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A common sexually transmitted infection, affecting approximately 3.7 million people in the U.S. annually, with higher rates globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, previous or coexisting STIs, and poor sexual health practices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment, though reinfection is common without partner treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of HIV transmission, pregnancy complications (preterm birth, low birth weight), and pelvic inflammatory disease (rarely).
Tungiasis
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
intense itching; pain at the site of infestation; black dot at the center of a swollen, inflamed lesion; secondary infections in severe cases; walking difficulty if located on feet
Root Cause:
Skin infestation by the sand flea (Tunga penetrans), which burrows into the skin, primarily in the feet, and causes inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination of characteristic lesions and history of travel or residence in endemic areas.
Treatment:
Removal of the flea under sterile conditions, topical antiseptics, and wound care to prevent secondary infections.
Medications:
Topical or oral antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections; antiparasitic agents (e.g., ivermectin ) are occasionally used in severe infestations.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in rural and resource-poor areas of tropical and subtropical regions, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and South America.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Walking barefoot, living in areas with sandy soil, and poor sanitation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper flea removal and wound care; untreated cases can lead to severe secondary complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections, cellulitis, tetanus, and chronic ulcers.
Pediculosis and Pthiriasis (Lice Infestation)
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
Category: Parasitic Infections
Symptoms:
itching; visible lice or eggs (nits) on hair or skin; red bite marks; secondary bacterial infections from scratching
Root Cause:
Infestation by lice (Pediculus humanus capitis, Pediculus humanus corporis, or Pthirus pubis), which feed on human blood.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual identification of lice or eggs with a magnifying glass or comb.
Treatment:
Topical insecticides, manual removal, and environmental decontamination.
Medications:
Permethrin (topical insecticide), ivermectin (oral or topical antiparasitic), malathion lotion.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common globally, especially in crowded or unsanitary living conditions; head lice are prevalent in school-aged children.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infested individuals, sharing personal items, overcrowded living conditions.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment and environmental control.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Secondary bacterial infections (e.g., impetigo), chronic scratching leading to dermatitis.