A parasitic worm is a multicellular worm that lives in or on a host and obtains resources from the host, potentially causing harm.
Parasitic worms that infect humans are broadly grouped into three major categories: roundworms (nematodes), tapeworms (cestodes), and flukes (trematodes). Their life cycles can involve humans, animals, soil, water, or other intermediate hosts.
Parasitic worms can live in the intestine, blood vessels, tissues, or other parts of the body. The health effects range from mild or asymptomatic infection to chronic disease and serious organ damage.
QUICK FACT
Parasitic worms are helminths. The terms are closely related, although helminth is the more technical term.
SEE ALSO
- Helminth
- Roundworm
- Tapeworm
- Fluke
- Anthelmintic
- Parasitic infection