ATI Hematologic System Test Related

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A 40 year old patient is presented with unilateral palpebral edema and ipsilateral lymphadenopathy. He later develops megaesophagus and megacolon as complications. Which of the following vector is responsible for this parasitic infection?

  • A. Glossina morsitans
  • B. Ixodes scapularis
  • C. Rhodnius prolixus
  • D. Simulium damnosum
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Rhodnius prolixus. This parasite is responsible for causing Chagas disease. The initial symptoms of unilateral palpebral edema and ipsilateral lymphadenopathy are characteristic of the acute phase of Chagas disease. The development of megaesophagus and megacolon are complications seen in the chronic phase. Rhodnius prolixus is a vector for Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease. Glossina morsitans is the vector for African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), Ixodes scapularis is the vector for Lyme disease, and Simulium damnosum is the vector for onchocerciasis (river blindness), making them incorrect choices for this particular parasitic infection.