Dicrocoelium dendriticum Epidemiology Quiz

The long periods required for parasite development in the two intermediate hosts, and the long survival periods for the eggs, even in freezing temperatures.

D. dendriticum occurs in a wide range of domestic and free-ranging mammals in various parts of the world. In Canada, it has been reported from cattle and sheep in Alberta, especially in the Cypress Hills where it also infects elk, and in British Columbia.

Adult D. dendriticum are small and lancet-shaped, measuring up to approximately 10 mm by 2.5 mm. The oral and ventral suckers, and many internal structures, particularly elements of the alimentary and reproductive systems, can easily be seen microscopically in fixed, stained specimens.

<p>The eggs are approximately 40 µm in length, not quite oval with a thick, yellow-brown, smooth shell and an operculum.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>In the Cypress Hills of southwestern Saskatchewan and southeastern Alberta, wapiti (elk) are common hosts for D. dendriticum, which can act as reservoir hosts for sympatric cattle, in which the fluke also occurs.</p> Signup and view all the answers