European Cercarial Dermatitis Agent [Trichobilharzia szidati]
Description
Trichobilharzia szidati is a parasitic flatworm of the genus Trichobilharzia. It is known for causing cercarial dermatitis, also known as swimmer's itch, in humans. The natural hosts of this species are various waterfowl, particularly ducks. The larvae of T. szidati penetrate the skin of the host, causing an allergic reaction. This species is found in fresh water environments across Europe.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Flatworms
Platyhelminthes
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Trematoda
Trematoda
|
| Order |
Digenetic Flukes
Digenea
|
| Family |
Schistosomatidae
Schistosomatidae
|
| Genus |
Trichobilharzia
Trichobilharzia
|