Definition

A disease caused by a type of roundworm, which is usually spread by certain types of flies.

Example

Loiasis is more common in certain regions of Africa where the flies that carry the infection are found.

Conversation

Have you heard about loiasis?

Yeah, isn't it some kind of infection from flies?

Exactly! It’s caused by a nematode called loa loa.

That sounds pretty serious; I hope it’s not common.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Loiasis is derived from the Greek word "loas" (meaning a species of fly) and the suffix "-iasis" (meaning a pathological condition). The term refers to a disease caused by the parasitic infection of the eye by the Loa loa fly.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for a fly ('loas') that causes a specific disease ('-iasis') — that's how loiasis refers to a condition caused by this fly.

Visually Confused Words