What is Diphyllobothriasis?

Those infected with the Diphyllobothrium latum fish tapeworm are said to have diphyllobothriasis. Diphyllobothrium latum is the largest parasite that will infect a human, typically by eating undercooked or raw freshwater fish that has the tapeworm cysts inside. This parasite larva grows in the intestine and are fullsize in three to six weeks, a length of 30 feet at times. This infection leads to megaloblastic anemia and a vitamin B12 deficiency.

Symptoms

Most people do not have symptoms with diphyllobothriasis. There are some signs that can include loss of appetite, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain or discomfort. You may be able to see some worm segments in the stool when you go to the bathroom.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of the condition can be from a CBC blood test and stool examination that shows eggs and parasites. It is a very simple diagnosis.

Treatment

Oral medications to treat the parasites are given. Usually, this drug is niclosamide. There can be supplements and b12 injections that may treat the megloblastic anemia that can be a complication of this condition. Sometimes other medications, such as albendazole and praziquantel. Depending on if there is intestinal blockage or megaloblastic anemia, two complications of this condition, there may be other treatment options that the doctor will go over with you.

There are easy treatments for this condition with no lasting effects. It can easily be prevented by only eating properly cooked fish. Freezing fish to -4 degrees F for a full day, according to Medline Plus, can kill the fish tapeworm eggs.

Source: A.D.A.M.