Liver flukes are parasitic flatworms that infect the livers of various mammals, including humans, leading to diseases such as fascioliasis and clonorchiasis. These infections are primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated water or food, particularly raw or undercooked freshwater fish and plants.

Liver Flukes

Parasitic flatworms, belonging to the phylum Platyhelminthes, are a diverse group of organisms that live off a host, often causing diseases in humans and animals. They exhibit complex life cycles involving multiple hosts and have developed sophisticated mechanisms to evade the host's immune system.

Parasitic Flatworms

Infected livers

Fascioliasis is a parasitic disease caused by the liver flukes Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, primarily affecting the liver and bile ducts of humans and animals. It is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated water or plants and can lead to severe liver damage if untreated.

Fascioliasis

Clonorchiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the liver fluke Clonorchis sinensis, primarily affecting the liver and bile ducts. It is commonly contracted through the consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish and can lead to serious complications such as cholangiocarcinoma if untreated.

Clonorchiasis

Contaminated water refers to water that has been polluted by harmful substances, making it unsafe for human consumption and detrimental to the environment. It poses significant health risks, contributing to the spread of diseases and impacting ecosystems adversely.

Contaminated Water

Contaminated food

Raw freshwater fish

Undercooked freshwater fish

Infected mammals

Parasitic infections are caused by organisms such as protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites that live on or in a host organism, deriving nutrients at the host's expense. These infections can lead to a wide range of health issues, from mild discomfort to severe diseases, and are often prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions with poor sanitation and hygiene.

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