Fish tapeworm is an infection with a parasite found in fish.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The fish tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum), is the largest parasite that infects humans. Humans become infected when they eat raw or undercooked freshwater fish that contain fish tapeworm cysts.
The infection is seen in many areas where humans eat uncooked or undercooked fish from rivers or lakes, including:
African countries in which freshwater fish are eaten
North and South America
Some Asian countries
After a person has eaten infected fish, the larva begin to grow in the intestine. Larvae are fully grown in 3 – 6 weeks. The adult worm, which is segmented, may reach a length of 30 feet. Eggs are formed in each segment of the worm and are passed in the stool. Sometimes, parts of the worm may also be passed in the stool.
Fish tapeworm infection may lead to
Most people who are infected have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Weight loss
Signs and tests
People who are infected sometimes pass segments of worm in their stools. These segments can be seen in the stool.
Tests may include:
Complete blood count, including differential
- Blood tests to determine the cause of anemia
- Vitamin B12 level
- Stool examination for eggs and parasites
You will receive medicines to fight the parasites. You take these medicines by mouth, usually in a single dose.
The drug of choice for tapeworm infections is praziquantal. Niclosamide can also be used. You may need vitamin B12 injections or supplements to treat the vitamin B12 deficiency and anemia that can occur with this infection.
Fish tapeworms can be removed with a single treatment dose. There are no lasting effects.
- Megaloblastic anemia
- Intestinal blockage (rare)
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if:
You have noticed a worm or segments of a worm in your stool
Any family members have symptoms of anemia
Avoiding raw freshwater fish and cooking fish enough (to more than 140 degrees F for 5 minutes) will prevent infection with the fish tapeworm. Freezing fish to -4 degrees F for 24 hours also kills fish tapeworm eggs.