Tapeworm

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Tapeworm infection is caused by segmented helminths. They can be transmitted by ingesting undercooked fish, beef and pork.

Causes

  • Taenia saginata
  • Taenia solium
  • Hymenolepiasis nana.
  • Diphyllobothrium latum

Signs and symptoms

May be asymptomatic. Features may include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhoea
  • Expulsion of white flat rectangular segments in stool
  • Weight loss despite increased appetite and food intake

Pharmacological treatment

First line treatment

Taenia solium

Adults and children

Praziquantel oral

5-10 mg/kg as a single dose

 

Hymenolepiasis nana

Praziquantel oral

Adult:

25mg/kg as a single dose, repeat dose in 10 days

Child:

4-17 years: 25mg/kg as a single dose

 

Second line treatment

Niclosamide oral

Adults and children > 6 years

2g as a single dose

Child:

2-6 years: 1g as a single dose

< 2 years: 500 mg as a single dose