"liver fluke" 的定义和意义

What is a "liver fluke"?

A liver fluke is a type of parasitic flatworm that primarily infects the liver and bile ducts of various animals, including humans. It has a flat, leaf-shaped body and is usually found in areas with freshwater sources. The life cycle of a liver fluke involves multiple stages, including eggs being released into the environment through the feces of infected animals and then being ingested by intermediate hosts such as snails. The larvae develop inside the snail before being released and infecting the final host, which can be a mammal, including humans. Liver fluke infections can cause liver damage, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, and fatigue