Whipworm
A nematode (roundworm), also called Trichuris trichiura, that is the third most common roundworm in humans. The whipworm is found worldwide, and whipworm infections are most frequent among children and in areas with tropical weather and poor sanitation practices. Infection with whipworm most often occurs without symptoms. Heavy infections, especially in small children, can cause gastrointestinal problems (such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal prolapse) and possibly growth retardation. Treatment involves use of the drugs albendazole or mebendazole.
Read Also:
- White blood cell
One of the cells the body makes to help fight infections. There are several types of white blood cells (leukocytes). The two most common types are the lymphocytes and neutrophils (also called polymorphonuclear leukocytes, PMNs, or “polys”). Lymphocytes are made in lymphoid tissue in the spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus gland. There are different kinds […]
- White blood cell count
The number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood. The WBC is usually measured as part of the CBC (complete blood count). White blood cells are the infection-fighting cells in the blood and are distinct from the red (oxygen-carrying) blood cells known as erythrocytes. There are different types of white blood cells, including neutrophils […]
- White cell differential, automated
A machine-generated percentage of the different types of white blood cells, usually split into granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.
- White coat hypertension
A transient increase in blood pressure (hypertension) that is triggered by the sight of medical personnel in white coats (or other attire). Ideally, people so affected should do their best to relax when in the medical office.
- White matter
The part of the brain that contains myelinated nerve fibers. The white matter is white because it is the color of myelin, the insulation that covers nerve fibers.