Tapeworms

For MRCP basic knowledge about 2 tapeworm infections is desirable:

1.  Hydatid disease is infection with the larval stage of the tapeworm echinococcus. It results in fluid-filled cysts, most commonly in the liver. The second most common location is the lungs. It tends to be passed to humans from sheep in endemic areas. Symptoms depend on the effect of the cyst(s). Treatment is with albendazole.

2.  Cysticercosis is infection with the larval stage of the tapeworm taenia. Symptoms depend on the location of the infection. Taenia solum (found in pork) is endemic in South America, Africa and Asia. Treatment is with albendazole.

References:

Kraft, R. Cysticerosis: An emerging parasitic disease. Am Fam Physician. 2007; 76(1):91-96.

Kumar, A. and Chattopadhyay, T. Management of hydatid disease of the liver. Postrgrad Med J. 1992; 68:853-856.

Polat, P. et al. Hydatid disease from head to toe. Radiographics. 2003; 16(1):18-36.