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Diphyllobothriasis, Brazil.
Jorge Luiz Mello Sampaio1, Victor Piana de Andrade, Maria da Conceição Lucas
1Fleury Research Institute, São Paulo, Brazil. jorge.sampaio@fleury.com.br
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|December 2, 2005
Summary
Human diphyllobothriasis cases surged in Brazil following a change in diagnostic practices. The increase is linked to patients consuming raw fish in sushi and sashimi, highlighting a potential public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- Human diphyllobothriasis, a tapeworm infection, is globally recognized.
- A low incidence was observed at the institution between 1998 and 2003.
- A significant rise in cases necessitates further investigation into contributing factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trend of human diphyllobothriasis diagnoses.
- To identify potential sources of infection within the study period.
- To inform public health strategies regarding foodborne parasitic diseases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of institutional diagnostic records.
- Comparison of case numbers between two distinct time periods (1998-2003 vs. 2004-2005).
- Patient interviews to ascertain dietary habits, specifically raw fish consumption.
Main Results:
- Only one case of diphyllobothriasis was diagnosed from January 1998 to December 2003.
- A dramatic increase to 18 cases was recorded from March 2004 to January 2005.
- All infected patients reported consuming raw fish, primarily in sushi and sashimi.
Conclusions:
- The study indicates a sharp increase in human diphyllobothriasis in Brazil.
- Consumption of raw fish, particularly in sushi and sashimi, is strongly associated with infection.
- Enhanced surveillance and public awareness campaigns are recommended to mitigate transmission.