Helminths
| Definition: |
Commonly known as parasitic worms, this group includes the ACANTHOCEPHALA; NEMATODA; and PLATYHELMINTHS. Some authors consider certain species of LEECHES that can become temporarily parasitic as helminths. |
| Notes: |
GEN or unspecified; prefer specifics; infection = HELMINTHIASIS; coord with specific precoord helminth terms (e.g., ANTIGENS, HELMINTH) if pertinent |
| Also Called: |
Gordius,Aschelminthes,Nematomorpha |
Helminths Categories.
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Acanthocephala - A phylum of parasitic worms, closely related to tapeworms and containing two genera: Moniliformis, which sometimes infects man, and Macracanthorhynchus, which infects swine. |
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Nematoda - A class of unsegmented helminths with fundamental bilateral symmetry and secondary triradiate symmetry of the oral and esophageal structures. Many species are parasites. |
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Platyhelminths - A phylum of acoelomate, bilaterally symmetrical flatworms, without a definite anus. It includes three classes: Cestoda, Turbellaria, and Trematoda. |
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Rotifera - A class of minute animals of the phylum Aschelminthes. |
Helminths Definitions and Terms
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