''Ascaris suum'' is a member of the Ascarididae family and is the major cause of [[ascariasis]] in pigs. Its life cycle, like all ascarids, is not typical of nematodes as the infectious stage is within the egg. Due to the migratory life cycle of the larval stages this parasite can be the cause of [[Pigmentation and Calcification - Pathology#Post-Hepatic (Obstructive) Icterus|post-hepatic jaundice]] and [[Respiratory Parasitic Infections - Pathology#Ascaris suum|pneumonia]]. The nematode may also be a reservoir of [[Swine Influenza|Swine influenza]]. The major detremental effects of ''A. suum'' is in the economic loss due to the damage to liver tissue, white spot, and the decreased growth rate of the pigs. Up to 7% of pig liver in the UK is trimmed or condemned at slaughter due to the presence of white spot due to ''A. suum'' infection. | ''Ascaris suum'' is a member of the Ascarididae family and is the major cause of [[ascariasis]] in pigs. Its life cycle, like all ascarids, is not typical of nematodes as the infectious stage is within the egg. Due to the migratory life cycle of the larval stages this parasite can be the cause of [[Pigmentation and Calcification - Pathology#Post-Hepatic (Obstructive) Icterus|post-hepatic jaundice]] and [[Respiratory Parasitic Infections - Pathology#Ascaris suum|pneumonia]]. The nematode may also be a reservoir of [[Swine Influenza|Swine influenza]]. The major detremental effects of ''A. suum'' is in the economic loss due to the damage to liver tissue, white spot, and the decreased growth rate of the pigs. Up to 7% of pig liver in the UK is trimmed or condemned at slaughter due to the presence of white spot due to ''A. suum'' infection. |