Fasciolosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Fasciolosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Fasciolosis refers to an infection caused by parasites belonging to the genus Fasciola, commonly known as liver flukes. Two major species of these parasites cause human illness: Fasciola hepatica in temperate regions, and Fasciola gigantica in tropical regions. The life cycle of Fasciola involves a complex process that often involves water plants like watercress. Let's explore the key factors related to fasciolosis:

Causes

Infections with Fasciola species occur primarily through consumption of raw or insufficiently cooked meat from intermediate hosts, such as edible frogs or snails, or by consuming uncooked aquatic vegetation harboring the parasite. The eggs from infected individuals must develop in specific types of freshwater snails, under suitable environmental conditions, to become infective for humans.

Symptoms

Fasciolosis exhibits three distinct phases: acute, latent, and chronic.

1. Acute Phase: Begins approximately four days after infection and can last for two to four months. Symptoms during this phase include fever, abdominal pain with tender liver, gastrointestinal disturbances, and hives (urticaria) accompanied by bouts of bronchial asthma.

2. Latent Phase: Lasts for several months and is characterized by the presence of mature flukes in the bile ducts. Individuals in this stage are usually asymptomatic.

3. Chronic Phase: Persists for several years and displays nonspecific symptoms such as gastrointestinal pain, fatty food intolerance, nausea, jaundice, itching, and abdominal tenderness.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic methods for fasciolosis involve examining stool specimens under a microscope to detect Fasciola eggs and using specific blood tests. More than one stool sample may be required to identify the parasite. Additionally, ultrasonography and computed tomography can help visualize the location and extent of the parasites within the body.