Taeniasis

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