How Do You Spell HOOKWORM DISEASE?

1. Hookworm disease, also known as hookworm infection or hookworm infestation, is a parasitic infection caused by one of two types of small intestinal nematodes called hookworms. The two common species responsible for this disease are Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. This condition is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.

   The transmission of hookworm disease occurs through the skin; the larvae penetrate the skin when an individual comes into contact with contaminated soil or feces. Once inside the body, the larvae travel through the bloodstream, eventually reaching the small intestine where they mature and latch onto the intestinal walls to feed on the host's blood. The infection results in a range of symptoms, including anemia, weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and stunted growth in children.

   The severity of hookworm disease depends on the worm burden, with heavy infections potentially leading to severe complications such as intestinal bleeding, iron-deficiency anemia, malnutrition, and impaired physical and cognitive development, particularly in children. Diagnosis is typically done through stool examination, where the presence of hookworm eggs confirms the infection.

   Prevention and control of hookworm disease involve improving sanitation and hygiene practices, promoting the use of footwear in endemic areas, and the administration of anthelmintic medications to at-risk individuals. Treatment typically includes medication to eliminate the adult worms and may involve nutrition and iron supplementation to restore the individual's health.

2. Uncinariasis ankylostomiasis.

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

Common Misspellings for HOOKWORM DISEASE

The word "hookworm disease" is derived from the combination of two terms: "hookworm" and "disease".

1. Hookworm: The term "hookworm" originated from the combination of "hook" and "worm". These parasitic worms, specifically Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus, possess a mouth part that resembles a hook. The word "hook" comes from Old English "hoc", which means a curved or bent device. "Worm" has Old English roots and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic term "wurmaz", meaning a creeping or crawling animal.

2. Disease: The term "disease" comes from Old French "desaise", which was derived from the Latin word "discidia". "Discidia" refers to a lack or absence of ease and comfort, implying a state of ill health.