Overview
A tapeworm is a parasite that can live and feed in human intestines. It is called a tapeworm infection. The young and inactive form of the tapeworm is called a larval cyst, which can stay alive in other parts of the body, causing a larval cyst infection. Tapeworm infections often cause mild symptoms, but moderate to severe symptoms can include stomach pain and diarrhea. Larval cysts can cause serious disease if they are in a person's brain, liver, lungs, heart, or eyes. Treatment for tapeworm infections typically involves anti-parasitic drugs.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of tapeworm infection depend on where the infection occurs in the body. Tapeworm infection in the intestines may cause no symptoms or mild symptoms such as an upset stomach, stomachache, loss of appetite, loose stools, diarrhea, weight loss, gas, hunger pains, and cravings for salty food. If larval cysts are present in other parts of the body, symptoms may include headache, seizures, dizziness, nerve pain, muscle weakness, poor coordination, and changes in thinking or behaviors. Generally, tapeworm infections do not cause complications, but possible complications may include anemia and blockages.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing tapeworm infections include:
- Eating raw or undercooked meats, such as pork, beef, and fish.
- Poor hygiene, which can lead to the spread of tapeworm eggs through poor handwashing or consuming unwashed fruits and vegetables.
- Lack of sanitation and sewage, which increases the risk of livestock getting tapeworm eggs from humans and contaminating meat.
- Lack of clean water for drinking, bathing, and food preparation.
- Living in or traveling to regions with high rates of tapeworm infection. Some tapeworm species can cause complications such as anemia, blockages, anxiety, severe allergic reactions, and organ dysfunction.
Development
Tapeworms can develop in humans after ingesting eggs or larvae through various mediums, such as eating raw or undercooked meat (e.g., beef, pork) or fish, or through water contaminated with tapeworm eggs. In some cases, humans may act as intermediate hosts, allowing the larvae to mature into adult tapeworms within their bodies. However, the exact process of tapeworm development varies depending on the species of tapeworm and the host.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if tapeworm infection is suspected, especially if symptoms are moderate to severe, or if they do not improve with treatment. Seek medical attention if you experience stomach pain, diarrhea, weight loss, or any other concerning symptoms. Additionally, if larval cyst infection is suspected or diagnosed, consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment, which may include anti-parasitic drugs and surgery in some cases. Remember that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to prevent potential complications and promote a full recovery.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a tapeworm infection, a health care provider typically tests a stool sample to look for pieces of tapeworms or eggs. A lab test may also be used to confirm the presence of tapeworms. Imaging tests like CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasound may be used to find larval cysts in the body. Blood tests may also be done to detect immune system antibodies to the larval cysts in a blood sample. If you suspect a tapeworm infection, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of tapeworm infections include anemia (due to long-term fish tapeworm infections), blockages (when a tapeworm part blocks a duct connecting an organ to the intestines), and severe allergic reactions (from larval cyst debris or breakdown). For larval cyst infections, complications vary depending on the affected organ and can range from mild to severe, affecting the brain, spine, liver, lungs, heart, or eyes.
Treatment
Treatments for tapeworm infections include anti-parasitic drugs. Treatments for larval cyst infections may include anti-parasitic drugs and surgery to remove the cyst. Other drugs may be used to treat symptoms.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for tapeworm infection, here are some steps you can follow:
- List your symptoms: Make a note of any symptoms you've experienced, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or weight loss.
- Gather information about your recent travel history: If you