Dracontiasis

(dra-kon-ti'-as-is). Guinea worm Disease; a skin-disease due to the presence of the fully developed nematode worm, dracunculus med in ens is, and characterized by the development of deep vesicles or absce es. The disease is endemic in India and various parts of Africa and other tropical regions. The female worm is cylindric, yff inch in diameter and about 30 inches long, or even much longer. It may be felt like a cord of soft string under the skin. When about to make its escape it produces itching and discomfort, followed by an absce . The embryo of the worm gains entrance into the human body and there develops with the named results. See Parasites (Animal), Table of. Dracunculus (drakun' -ku-lus). A genus of thread-worms, belonging to the of.family Filar iidce. (Animal'), Table D. med in ens is.