Tape Worm Infection

Description

Tapeworms are parasites from the family Taenia. The infection is acquired by eating undercooked meat of infected animals. There are multiple different types of tapeworms with Taenia saginata usually infecting beef, and Taenia solium being found in pork. The immature worms are ingested and grow in the intestine where they can live for many years and reach 12 feet in length. Very large tapeworms can block the intestines leading to a bowel obstruction. The larvae of the pork tapeworm can invade the body, enter the blood stream and infect the brain, eyes or heart. The invasive form of the disease is called cysticercosis.

Symptoms

Many patients do not have any symptoms. Others may experience nausea, vomiting, weakness, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea,and weight loss. Patients with cysticercosis may have seizures, shortness of breath, and decreased vision.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be done. The stool may by examined to look for eggs of the tapeworm (parasite) or the worm itself. This stool test is called "ova and parasites". A blood test may be performed to detect antibodies against the the tapeworm. Imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI may be done to detect invasive disease.

Treatment

Medications are used to kill the parasites and decrease inflammation. The most common drugs used are albendazole (Albenza), praziquantel (Bitricide), and nitazoxanide (Alinia). If there is involvement of the brain steroids are used to decrease inflammation before killing the tapeworms. Large cysts may develop when there is invasive disease and surgery may be required.

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