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Case of megaloblastic anemia caused by intestinal taeniasis
Peter Vuylsteke1, Celine Bertrand, Gregor E G Verhoef
1Hematology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine & Center of Human Genetics, University Hospital Leuven, 49 Herestraat, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
Abstract:
A 61-year-old eutrophic male was diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency and megaloblastic anemia. A modified Schilling test suggested intestinal malabsorption unrelated to intrinsic factor deficiency. Subsequent colonoscopy revealed the presence of a Taenia tapeworm. The anemia resolved within days under therapy with niclosamide and temporary vitamin B12 supplements. The present case suggests that, in addition to other well-known parasitic agents, e.g., Diphyllobothrium latum and Giardia lamblia, Taenia infestation can also be a cause of intestinal vitamin B12 malabsorption.
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