Neglected rare human parasitic infections: Part IV: Hirudiniasis

Abstract

Among all species of leeches, only true leeches especially jawed leeches are known to attack humans. These species are either freshwater or land dwellers. Freshwater leeches of medical importance may be divided into two groups: leeches which attack the mucous membranes (endoparasites), and those that attack the skin (ectoparasites). Some species of the former group have been incriminated in causing halazoun, while many species of the latter group were used in bloodletting. Leeches may be potential transmitters of human pathogens. The land leeches are much less fearsome than the aquatic leeches. However, the harm which land leeches cause to man and his domestic animals may be such that some infested foci become almost uninhabitable. This review summarizes current knowledge on the public health significance of true leeches as human parasites and their medical uses, and the recommended methods of prevention and control. Keywords: