Fasciolopsis hepatica is also known as: March 2013
**Core Concept**
Fasciolopsis hepatica is a type of liver fluke, a parasitic flatworm that infects the liver and biliary system of humans and animals. These parasites cause fasciolopsiasis, a zoonotic disease characterized by liver damage, biliary obstruction, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Fasciolopsis hepatica is also known as the Chinese liver fluke or the giant liver fluke. It is one of the two main species of liver flukes that infect humans, the other being Fasciola gigantica. Fasciolopsis hepatica is typically acquired through the consumption of contaminated water or food, particularly aquatic plants, that harbor the parasite's larvae.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the Chinese liver fluke is a specific common name for Fasciolopsis hepatica, but it is not the only name used.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the term "giant liver fluke" is also used to describe Fasciola gigantica, a different species of liver fluke.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the term "oriental liver fluke" is a common name for Fasciola hepatica, not Fasciolopsis hepatica.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because it is not a recognized common name for Fasciolopsis hepatica.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Fasciolopsis hepatica is typically acquired through the consumption of contaminated water or food, particularly aquatic plants, that harbor the parasite's larvae. This mode of transmission is often associated with poor sanitation and hygiene practices in endemic areas.
**Correct Answer:** C.