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Fasciolopsiasis

Articlefasciolopsiasis
Digestive Health
Diseases & Conditions
+1
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHNov 08, 2019

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • Giant Intestinal Fluke Infection
  • Ginger Worm Infection

What is Fasciolopsiasis? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Fasciolopsiasis is the resulting syndrome after an individual has been infected by Fasciolopsiasis buski which is an intestinal fluke, a type of parasitic flatworm
  • Any individual who eats raw and uncooked aquatic plants can be affected by Fasciolopsiasis; the intestinal fluke that causes the condition lives in these plants. Individuals from South and Southeast Asia are at an increased risk, because such aquatic plants are consumed frequently in these parts of the world
  • Many individuals with Fasciolopsiasis do not show any symptoms. However, abdominal pain and diarrhea can be present 1-2 months after infection. A healthcare professional may look for these signs and symptoms during a physical exam. Also, an examination of the feces or vomit may be necessary to diagnose Fasciolopsiasis
  • Prescription medication given by a healthcare professional can be used to treat the condition; with proper treatment the prognosis is good. Complications of Fasciolopsiasis, such as intestinal abnormalities, diarrhea, and problems with daily life, can lead to a poorer prognosis, especially if the condition is left untreated
  • In order to prevent contracting the parasite, raw aquatic plants should be fully-cooked. Also, one should always consume water that is free of any contamination

Who gets Fasciolopsiasis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Individuals of any age, race, and ethnic backgrounds can be affected by Fasciolopsiasis
  • Children in the 10-14 years age group are commonly affected
  • Both males and females are at risk, though a female predominance is noted (for some unknown reason)
  • Individuals who live in or visit South and Southeastern Asia and are exposed to the parasite, which is endemic to these regions
  • Worldwide, annually, it is estimated that around 10 million people are affected

What are the Risk Factors for Fasciolopsiasis? (Predisposing Factors)

Risk factors for Fasciolopsiasis include:

  • Eating raw or undercooked aquatic plants increases the risk of Fasciolopsiasis in the endemic regions
  • Visiting South and Southeastern Asia countries (especially mainland China): In mainland China, studies indicate that about 55% of the human population may be affected
  • Exposure to infected pigs and humans increases the risk for Fasciolopsiasis, because they are a major reservoir of infection
  • Malnutrition and low socioeconomic status

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Fasciolopsiasis? (Etiology)

  • Fasciolopsiasis is caused when individuals are infected by Fasciolopsiasis buski (an intestinal fluke) that occurs on eating raw or undercooked aquatic plants or meat (that are infected by the cysts)
  • The condition is not transmitted from one human being to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Fasciolopsiasis?

The signs and symptoms of Fasciolopsiasis may include:

  • Many individuals may not show symptoms of Fasciolopsiasis
  • Abdominal pain and diarrhea may be seen 1 to 2 months after infection
  • In some individuals, frequent fevers is common
  • Severe Fasciolopsiasis can cause nausea, vomiting, intestinal obstruction, and fever
  • Individuals may also show allergic reactions to the circulating proteins of the worm, which can result in a variety of signs and symptoms including swollen face and legs

How is Fasciolopsiasis Diagnosed?

Fasciolopsiasis is diagnosed by:

  • Thorough analysis of previous medical history (travel history) and physical examination by a healthcare provider
  • Examination of vomit; evidence of the parasite or their eggs is indicative of the disease
  • Microscopic examination of the stool
  • Tests run against antibodies-specific parasitic infection may be undertaken as well

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Fasciolopsiasis?

Complications of Fasciolopsiasis include:

  • Intestinal complications such as intestinal obstruction and chronic abdominal pain
  • Severe diarrhea
  • Ascites or the collection of abdominal fluid
  • The quality of life may be affected due to Fasciolopsiasis
  • Severe allergic reaction due to the parasite, which if left untreated can even lead to death

How is Fasciolopsiasis Treated?

  • Fasciolopsiasis is treated with praziquantel, a prescription medication
  • Other signs and symptoms are treated appropriately

How can Fasciolopsiasis be Prevented?

Fasciolopsiasis can be prevented by adhering to the following measures:

  • Ensuring that the aquatic plants being eaten are fully cooked
  • Prevention of fecal contamination of water from humans and pigs; avoiding the usage of human or pig feces as manure or fertilizer
  • Avoiding feeding pigs with raw aquatic plants
  • Avoiding places in the endemic regions that may not have proper sanitation
  • Filtering drinking water can eliminate the parasites; drinking water may also be boiled to kill the parasites
  • Freezing vegetables (raw plants) below -10 deg C for 3-4 days

What is the Prognosis of Fasciolopsiasis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Fasciolopsiasis is good, if timely and adequate treatment is given.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Fasciolopsiasis:

  • A snail acts as an intermediate host and can become infected with the parasite and be a carrier. An infected snail can deposit the parasite in feces, which may end up in humans or animals through the fecal oral route and cause the illness
  • In mainland China, the infection is known as Ginger Worm Infection
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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH picture
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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

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