What is sarcosystis?

Sarcocystis is a genus of intracellular protozoan parasites that infects a wide range of mammals and birds. These parasites are known to cause sarcocystosis, a disease that can affect both domestic and wild animals. Sarcocystis parasites have a complex life cycle, which involves two hosts - a definitive host (usually a carnivorous predator) and an intermediate host (usually a herbivorous animal). The definitive host becomes infected by consuming the raw meat of the intermediate host that contains the stage of parasite known as Sarcocyst. This stage of the parasite uses its hooked invaginated septs to penetrate the host intestinal wall and it encysts in the striated muscle of intermediate hosts. There are various species of Sarcocystis that affect different animals, including humans. Symptoms of sarcocystosis include fever, muscle pain, and weakness. Diagnosis can be made through microscopy, serology, or molecular methods. Treatment includes antibiotics and anti-protozoal drugs, although prevention through proper cooking of meat is the most effective way to prevent sarcocystosis.