Hook Worm Information

Hookworms are tiny parasitic nematodes that live in the small intestine of their hosts. Two kinds of hookworms commonly live inside humans: Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. However, humans may also pick up hookworms from other species of animals.

Description

• Hookworms are gray or pink, and they suck blood from the host's gut with mouths equipped with two pairs of teeth. Human hookworms range from 0.5 centimeters to 1 centimeter long; females are usually larger. Their "S" shape is the source of their name.

Life Cycle

• Hookworms lay eggs in warm, dry earth. The larvae typically enter a person's skin through bare feet. They work up to the trachea to be swallowed, then live in the intestine. Their eggs pass through the digestive system to continue the cycle.

Detection

• The victim of a hookworm infection might notice localized itching, sores and an ugly vein inflammation (cutaneous larva migrans) as the larvae move around. The victim might cough and suffer from diarrhea or constipation. The worm's eggs must be examined for a proper diagnosis.

Disease

• Victims of hookworm may become depleted of protein and iron. Loss of these nutrients can stunt the mental and physical development of heavily infested children. Also, hookworm can cause anchylostomiasis, a form of anemia.

Treatment

• Albendazole and mebendazole are effective hookworm medicines. Iron supplementation may be required for anemia.

Prevention

• Humans can also catch dog hookworms, so dog owners should keep dogs dewormed. Use of latrines in developing countries keeps egg-bearing fecal matter off the ground.