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Alternative names Return to top
Dwarf tapeworm infection; Rat tapeworm; Tapeworm - infectionDefinition Return to top
Hymenolepiasis is infestation by one of two species of tapeworm: Hymenolepis nana or Hymenolepis diminuta.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Hymenolepis live in warm climates and are common in the southern U.S. The eggs of these worms are ingested by insects, and mature into a life form referred to as a "cysticercoid" in the insect.
Humans and other animals become infected when they intentionally or unintentionally eat material contaminated by insects. In an infected person, it is possible for the worm's entire life-cycle to be completed in the bowel, so infection can persist for years.
Hymenolepis nana infections are much more common than Hymenolepis diminuta infections in humans. These infections were previously common in the southeastern U.S., and have been described in crowded environments and individuals confined to institutions. However, the disease occurs throughout the world.
Symptoms Return to top
Symptoms occur only with heavy infections. Symptoms include:
Signs and tests Return to top
Examination of the stool for eggs and parasites confirms the diagnosisTreatment Return to top
Praziquantel as a single dose is the current treatment of choice for hymenolepiasis.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Expect full recovery following treatment.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if chronic diarrhea or abdominal cramping are present.Prevention Return to top
Good hygiene, public health and sanitation programs, and elimination of rats help prevent the spread of hymenolepiasis. Update Date: 11/18/2003 Updated by: D. Scott Smith, MD, MSc, DTM&H, Infectious Diseases Division and Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |