Talk:Trematoda

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[edit] chemical castration

I am not a trematode expert, but in the interest of precise word use, would like to see some confirmation that this is the correct term, since it was originally coupled with an almost certainly erroneous detail. Castration means removal or destruction of functioning gonads. In most contexts is nearly always used to refer to removal of the hormonal function, not the fertility function (though obviously this is removed as well). Many diseases and problems can disrupt fertility of people and animals (especially female); we do not usually use the term castration for this. Complete disruption of hormonal function by parasites is much rarer. In a human context, chemical castration refers to drug treatment that suppresses of sexual feelings and functions by suppressing gonadal hormones, and implies nothing about fertility. So, worm experts, what is the right term here? Do trematodes produce a chemical that suppresses both the hormonal and reproductive functions of host animals? If trematodes just affect fertility, I think we need another term for this section.

PS, I removed the micropenis link as that is almost certainly spurious. It is what made me doubt the legitimacy of the chemical castration term. If I am wrong, please educate me. alteripse 12:23, 2 November 2005 (UTC)

[edit] major edits of April 12, 2007

I deleted a part of the etymology I couldn't follow, as well as the chemical castration part because although yes, it really is aptly named, it's not clear that it's a major feature common to all trematodes. As previously written, the Life Cycle section described a digenean life history, and not even the most general case. This section is now shortened and generalized to include features of teh Aspidogastrea. Still lots of room for improvement in this page. Could use a section on morphology, for example. 132.205.60.253 17:44, 12 April 2007 (UTC)132.205.60.253

[edit] Are they harmful to humans?

--207.233.79.150 (talk) 20:02, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Sure. For example Schistosoma spp. (about 600 milions people infected), Fasciola hepatica (About 2,3 mil people infected), Clonorchis sinensis etc. —Preceding unsigned comment added by Flukeboy (talk • contribs) 13:26, 13 February 2008 (UTC)