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Dipylidium caninum in a 4-month old male
Tabitha Taylor1, Michele B Zitzmann
1LSUHSC Dept. of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
Abstract:
Dipylidium caninum, known as the double-pored dog tapeworm, is a parasite that commonly infects dogs and cats worldwide. Humans may be an accidental host if the infective stage, the cysticercoid larva, is ingested. Although rare, it is more commonly seen in infants and children. This case study involves an infant misdiagnosed with pinworm infection twice before a laboratory evaluation was able to confirm Dipylidium caninum. Accurate diagnosis is important, as treatment for pinworm infection will not eliminate Dipylidium caninum.
Insights
Dipylidium caninum, a common tapeworm in pets, can infect humans, especially children. Misdiagnosis as pinworm delays correct treatment for this accidental parasitic infection.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Human Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Dipylidium caninum, the double-pored dog tapeworm, is a globally prevalent parasite of domestic animals.
- Human infection is rare, typically occurring through accidental ingestion of cysticercoid larvae, with infants and children being more susceptible.
Observation:
- This case study details an infant misdiagnosed with pinworm infection on two separate occasions.
- Initial misdiagnosis delayed the identification of Dipylidium caninum infection.
Findings:
- Laboratory evaluation definitively confirmed Dipylidium caninum infection in the infant.
- Standard pinworm treatments were ineffective against the actual tapeworm parasite.
Implications:
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of Dipylidium caninum is crucial for effective treatment in pediatric cases.
- Misdiagnosis can lead to prolonged infection and inappropriate therapeutic interventions.
