What pathological complication can result from the worm's firm anchoring mechanism in the intestine?
Answer
Inflammation, ulceration, or perforation of the intestinal wall.
The primary mechanism by which Acanthocephala maintain their position in the definitive host is through the attachment of their hook-laden proboscis directly into the intestinal lining. This physical embedding process is inherently traumatic to the host tissue. Heavy infections, where multiple worms are attached, can induce significant local pathology. This trauma manifests as intense inflammation, the development of ulcers at attachment points, and in severe instances, can progress to perforation of the intestinal wall, potentially leading to serious secondary conditions such as peritonitis.
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