Index >> Eukaryotes Microbes >>Hookworm Diseases

Hookworm Diseases - This is caused by two nematodes: the old world hookworm, Ancyclostoma duodenale, and the New World hookworm, Necator americanus. Of these the former is common in Europe, Asia and the U.S.A. Both are about 10 mm long with a set of hooks or sucker devices, which allow them to attach firmly to intestine. They may induce ulcers and consume blood, causing amemia.

Hookworm eggs pass into soil where the larvae emerge as long rhabditi form larvae. These convert to hairlike flariform larvae. The fIariform larvae attach to skin during contact with moist vegetation in the soil and penetrate the skin layers to the bloodstream. They localise in the lungs and are carried up the bronchi, from where they are swallowed. Infection then occurs in the intestine.