What does coccidiosis mean?
Coccidiosis is the name of an intestinal parasitic disease caused by coccidia, a group of microscopic single-celled protozoan parasites. It occurs in many animals but is especially important in poultry, where parasites of the genus Eimeria can cause severe outbreaks among young birds. Infected animals may develop diarrhea, reduced appetite, weight loss, dehydration, and intestinal tissue damage; severe cases can be fatal. The precise name distinguishes this protozoal infection from coccidioidomycosis, a superficially similar term for a fungal disease. In veterinary and agricultural writing, coccidiosis is a familiar and important term because it can spread rapidly through crowded flocks or young stock and may significantly reduce production even when mortality is limited. Its technical name is useful when discussing diagnosis, prevention, treatment, or patterns of disease among particular species, since the parasite involved and the practical response can vary according to the affected animal.
nounA parasitic disease caused by coccidia, especially protozoan parasites of the genera Eimeria and Isospora, that primarily affects the intestinal tract of animals. It can produce diarrhea, weight loss, tissue damage, and severe illness, particularly in young animals.
- An infectious disease of animals, especially birds, caused by coccidian protozoan parasites and usually involving the intestines.
"A veterinary investigation confirmed coccidiosis in several of the farm's young calves."
"Laboratory testing of the droppings confirmed avian coccidiosis in the flock."
"Improved sanitation and prompt veterinary treatment helped contain the intestinal coccidiosis."
The plural refers to distinct forms or occurrences of the disease, often identified by their cause or the host species.
"Coccidioses in poultry require accurate species identification because control measures vary."
A disease named for microscopic parasites can devastate a flock, making coccidiosis a diagnosis every poultry keeper needs to recognize.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does coccidiosis come from?
Coccidiosis is formed from coccidium and the Greek-derived suffix -osis, which denotes a condition, especially a disease process. Coccidium is a New Latin formation based on coccus, which in turn comes from Greek kokkos, meaning a kernel or berry and referring to the small rounded organisms. The resulting name reflects the parasite's berry-like appearance and the disease it causes.
Related word forms
How coccidiosis is actually used
This is a technical medical and veterinary term used mainly in clinical, agricultural, and scientific contexts. It is normally used as a mass noun for the disease, although a plural form is used when referring to distinct forms of the condition.
Easily confused with coccidiosis
Coccidiosis is caused by protozoan coccidia, whereas coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection caused by organisms of the genus Coccidioides.