Clonorchis sinensis

Definition

Clonorchis sinensis is a parasitic liver fluke that infects the bile ducts of humans and other mammals. Infection occurs through the ingestion of contaminated freshwater fish.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Clonorchis sinensis causes clonorchiasis, which can lead to chronic liver disease and cholangiocarcinoma.
2. The life cycle involves snails as the first intermediate host and freshwater fish as the second intermediate host.
3. Humans become infected by consuming raw or undercooked freshwater fish containing metacercariae.
4. Infection is diagnosed by identifying eggs in stool samples using microscopy.
5. Preventative measures include avoiding consumption of raw or improperly cooked freshwater fish.

Review Questions

• What are the primary symptoms associated with clonorchiasis?
• How is Clonorchis sinensis typically transmitted to humans?
• What diagnostic methods are used to identify Clonorchis sinensis infection?

Related terms

Helminthic Infections:

Diseases caused by parasitic worms such as flukes, tapeworms, and roundworms.

Cholangiocarcinoma: A type of cancer that forms in the bile ducts, often associated with chronic infections like clonorchiasis.

Metacercariae: The encysted larval stage of certain flukes, including Clonorchis sinensis, that infects the definitive host.