Hematocystis

/ˌhɛmətəˈsɪstɪs/ noun

Definition

A parasitic protozoan found in blood, or the condition caused by such parasites.

Etymology

From Greek 'haima' (blood) + 'kystis' (cyst) + '-is' (condition). A specialized parasitology term describing blood-dwelling protozoans, used since the 19th century.

Kelly Says

Malaria parasites are hemocystis-type organisms that actually hide inside your red blood cells and burst them—understanding their hiding place was crucial for developing treatments.

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