Taeniasis
From IDWiki
Background
- Intestinal infection with Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm), Taenia solium (pork tapeworm), or Taenia asiatica (Asian [pork] tapeworm)
- Acquired by ingestion of raw or undercooked beef or pork
Clinical Manifestations
- Often asymptomatic or mild GI symptoms
- Mild epigastric discomfort, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, or hunger pains
- Taenia saginata is larger and therefore more often symptomatic
- May be visible when proglottids are passed
- Proglottids may also block the appendix or the biliary or pancreatic ducts
Diagnosis
- Stool for ova and parasites (by microscopy)
Management
- Praziquantel 5 to 10 mg/kg p.o. once (for adults or children)
- Avoid in cases of cysticercosis due to risk of seizure
- Niclosamide 2 g p.o. once (for adults) or 50 mg/kg p.o. once (for children)
- Albendazole 400 mg p.o. daily for 3 days
- Check stools at 1 and 3 months after treatment to confirm clearance
