Head glands of monogenoidea: morphology, functionality and potentialities in industrial production of surgery bioadhesives

A review of the structure and functionality of monogenoidean head glands is provided. The unique features of the biochemical methods used by parasites to attach to, or detach from, fish hosts are highlighted. The potential use of monogenoidean cephalic secretions in the surgical field, and particularly in the production of bioadhesives, is suggested and critically supported by comparison with other available hemostatic agents. © American Society of Parasitologists.