Cestode: Fish Tapeworm

Question 1

Where are fish tapeworms generally found?

Answer 1

Undercooked/pickled fish

Question 2

How long can fish tapeworms grow to?

Answer 2

Up to 25 meters!!! :P

Question 3

Explain the lifecycle of fish tapeworms

Answer 3

• Humans ingest parasites in fish
• adult worms mature in SI
• feces with eggs to sewer/ground
• Special snails ingest eggs
  
  • small fish eat snails
  • large fish eat small fish
  • humans eat large fish

Question 4

What are the clinical manifestations of fish tapeworm?

Answer 4

• Mild bloating, diarrhea, but most asymptomatic
• Megaloblastic anemia–vitamin B12 deficiency because worms compete for it.
• Massive infection, intestinal obstruction or biliary obstruction in some instances

Question 5

What is the epidemiology of fish tapeworm?

In what regions is it endemic?

Answer 5

Endemic to Scandinavia, Finland, Alaska, Siberia, Great Lakes, Japan, Chile, Lakes/Rivers, etc.

Question 6

How do you diagnose fish tapeworm?

Answer 6

Stool exam for eggs – oval eggs with operculum at one end (An operculum is a small covering, like a sucker or trap door which exists in many fish, snails, etc.)

Question 7

How do you treat fish tapeworm?

Answer 7

Look it up! Prazinquantal / niclosamide both single dose.

Question 8

How do you prevent fish tapeworm?

Answer 8

• Proper feces disposal

- Cook or freeze your fish