Definition

A type of protozoan parasite that infects red blood cells in certain animals, often associated with diseases transmitted by ticks.

Example

The veterinarian diagnosed the dog with a piroplasm infection after observing symptoms of anemia.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of piroplasm?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's actually related to a type of parasite that affects red blood cells.

That sounds interesting! I should look it up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Piroplasm is formed from 'piro-' (from Greek 'pur', meaning fire) and 'plasma' (from Greek 'plasma', meaning something molded or formed). The term refers to a type of protozoan that is often associated with the blood of animals, suggesting a connection to the 'fiery' nature of the disease it can cause, as well as its cellular structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fire' ('piro-') and 'something molded' ('plasma') to remember that piroplasm refers to a type of organism that can cause fiery diseases in blood.

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