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Taeniasis (Tapeworm Infection)

Tapeworm infection acquired from undercooked beef or pork

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Taeniasis (Tapeworm Infection)?

Taeniasis is a chronic intestinal infection caused by Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm) or Taenia solium (pork tapeworm) that lodge in the human small intestine. Consumption of raw or undercooked infected meat is the principal route of transmission.

The scolex of the worm attaches to the bowel wall and the adult parasite can grow several metres long. Symptoms are usually mild or absent; passage of proglottids in stool is often the first noticed sign.

T. solium is more dangerous because faecal-oral ingestion of its eggs leads to cysticercosis, with neurocysticercosis being a major source of mortality and preventable epilepsy.

Symptoms

Mild abdominal pain or discomfort
Changes in appetite and modest weight loss
Nausea and abdominal bloating
Proglottid segments in stool or underwear
Mild perianal itching
Rare anaemia
Cysticercosis-related findings in T. solium infection

Risk Factors

Consumption of undercooked beef or pork
Living in endemic regions
Inadequate sanitation
Weak veterinary inspection of meat
Rural livestock-related work
Poor hygiene in mass food preparation

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Visible white tapeworm segments in stool
  • Unexplained abdominal pain and loss of appetite
  • Symptoms after travel to endemic areas
  • New neurological symptoms (headache, seizures)
  • Newly detected eosinophilia

Treatment Methods

01
Single oral dose of praziquantel
02
Niclosamide as an alternative
03
Brain CT/MRI screening for cysticercosis in T. solium cases
04
Thorough cooking and freezing of meat
05
Strict livestock and meat inspection
06
Family screening and education

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.