ABSTRACT
Sarcocystis, a foodborne apicomplexan protozoan, is one of the most prevalent parasites in livestock, wildlife, birds, and people. 1,2 First reported by Miescher in 1843, Sarcocystis was referred to as white, thread-like structures, and often called Meischer's tubules for the next 20 years. 3 In 1865, similar structures were reported from pig muscles 3 and named Sarcocystis meischeriana in 1899. 4 In 1967, electron microscopy established close similarity of Sarcocystis bradyzoites with other apicomplexan protozoan species. 3,5 Later in the 1970s, the prey-predator life cycle and coccidian nature of Sarcocystis were demonstrated in experimental studies. 6,7 To control this parasite, it is necessary to understand its life cycle, transmission, and other important features. In this chapter, we focus on the taxonomy, basic morphology, life cycle, clinical symptoms, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and control measures related to Sarcocystis spp.
