lungworm

(lŭng′wŏrm )

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Any of the nematodes of the order Strongylida that infest the lungs of humans and animals, esp. domestic and farm animals. Lungworms migrate to the lungs or respiratory tracts of their hosts, gradually damage the airways or lung tissue by exciting an inflammatory reaction within the tissue, and cause bronchitis or pneumonia. The parasites reproduce in the respiratory tissues.

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