Whipworm among the following is
**Core Concept**
Whipworm, also known as Trichuris trichiura, is a parasitic worm that infects the large intestine. It is a type of nematode that causes trichuriasis, a disease characterized by diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Whipworm infection is typically acquired through the fecal-oral route, where contaminated food or water is ingested.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the lifecycle of the whipworm. Whipworm eggs are ingested, hatch in the intestine, and then penetrate the mucosa to mature into adult worms. The adult worms attach to the mucosal surface of the large intestine and lay eggs, which are then passed in the feces. This lifecycle is crucial for understanding the epidemiology and transmission of whipworm infection.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it is not related to the whipworm lifecycle. The lifecycle of whipworm is distinct from other nematodes, such as hookworms or roundworms.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a characteristic of whipworm infection. While whipworm infection can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss, it is not typically associated with eosinophilia.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a common mode of transmission for whipworm infection. Whipworm infection is typically acquired through the fecal-oral route, not through skin contact.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Whipworm infection is often asymptomatic, but heavy infection can lead to significant morbidity, including iron-deficiency anemia, rectal prolapse, and colonic obstruction. In endemic areas, regular deworming programs are essential to control whipworm transmission.
**Correct Answer:** D.