Questions and Answers
What is one of the primary purposes of the substances found in leech saliva?
Which of the following conditions makes leech therapy unsuitable?
What effect does leech saliva have on the coagulation process?
What is considered a common side effect of leech therapy?
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Which of the following is a rare side effect of leech therapy?
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What is the primary purpose of leech therapy?
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Which compound in leech saliva is known for its anticoagulating properties?
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Which of the following effects is NOT associated with leech therapy?
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Which effect results from the leech's ability to break up fibrins?
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Which compounds in leech saliva act as vasodilators?
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What is the anti-inflammatory action of bdellins primarily due to?
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Which historical figure is associated with the introduction of leeches in traditional medicine?
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What type of animals are leeches classified as?
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Study Notes
History of Leech Therapy
- Leech therapy is one of the oldest healing methods documented in medical history.
- Historically associated with Dhanvanthari, a key figure in traditional Indian medicine, who symbolizes the balance of healing with leeches and nectar.
Definition
- Leech therapy involves the use of leeches to treat various medical conditions.
- Leeches are carnivorous aquatic or terrestrial worms with two suckers, one on each end.
Benefits
- Anti-coagulating: Leeches' saliva contains "hirudin," an enzyme that inhibits blood coagulation by binding to thrombin.
- Clot dissolving: Salivary compounds have thrombolytic effects, facilitating the breakdown of fibrins and dissolving blood clots.
- Anti-inflammatory: Bdellins in saliva inhibit trypsin and plasmin, effectively reducing inflammation.
- Vasodilating: Compounds like histamine, acetylcholine, and carboxypeptides help widen blood vessels, increasing blood flow.
- Bacteriostatic and Anesthetic: Saliva contains substances that numb pain at the application site and inhibit bacterial growth.
Contraindications
- Not suitable for individuals with:
- Hemophilia
- Use of anticoagulant medications (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin, Marcumar)
- Anemia
- Erosive gastritis
- Acute infectious diseases
- Severe allergic diathesis
Mechanism of Action
- Leeches possess various proteins in their saliva with unique properties affecting the coagulation cascade.
- They inhibit the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and reduce platelet aggregation.
- Analgesic effects are provided, reducing pain and numbness.
Side Effects
-
Common side effects:
- Mild pain at the bite site
- Prolonged bleeding
- Itching and redness surrounding the bite area
-
Rare side effects:
- Skin infections
- Temporary enlargement of lymph nodes
- Pigmentation disorders
- Temporary swelling of tissues
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Description
Explore the ancient healing method of leech therapy, tracing its roots in traditional medicine and its significance in historical practices. Learn about the biological compounds found in leech saliva and its documented effects in healing. Discover the connection to Hindu mythology and the legendary physician Dhanvanthari.
