Taeniasis

Definition

Taeniasis is a parasitic infection caused by the ingestion of tapeworm larvae from the genus Taenia, commonly through undercooked or raw beef or pork. It primarily affects the human gastrointestinal tract and can lead to various symptoms including abdominal pain and digestive disturbances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Taeniasis is most commonly caused by Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm) and Taenia solium (pork tapeworm).
2. Humans are the definitive hosts for Taenia species, where adult tapeworms develop in the intestines.
3. Symptoms of taeniasis include weight loss, abdominal pain, digestive issues, and sometimes segments of the worm in stool.
4. Diagnosis typically involves stool sample analysis to identify eggs or proglottids of the tapeworm.
5. Effective treatment often includes antiparasitic medications like praziquantel or niclosamide.

Review Questions

• What are the primary species of Taenia that cause taeniasis in humans?
• What are common symptoms associated with taeniasis?
• How is taeniasis typically diagnosed?

Related terms

Cysticercosis:

A tissue infection caused by larval cysts of Taenia solium, which can affect muscles, skin, brain, and other tissues.

Praziquantel:

An antiparasitic medication used to treat infections caused by various parasitic worms including those causing taeniasis.

Proglottid:

Segments that make up the body of a tapeworm; mature proglottids contain eggs and can be found in feces.