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Published on: August 22, 2012
Case Report: Human Bertiellosis-A Rare Cestode Infection in a South African Child
Nitesh Naranbhai1, Rochelle A Singh2, Bhavani Moodley3
1South African Military Health Service, AMHU NC HQ, Department of Defence, South Africa.
Insights
Human bertiellosis, a rare parasitic infection, was treated successfully in a child using praziquantel after benzimidazole failed. This case highlights praziquantel as an effective treatment for Bertiella cestode infections in humans.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Zoonotic diseases
- Human and veterinary medicine
Background:
- Bertiella cestodes are typically parasites of nonhuman primates.
- Human infections are rare, with limited documented cases globally.
- Understanding transmission and treatment is crucial for public health.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old girl in South Africa presented with a year-long history of rectal proglottid discharge.
- The patient also experienced intermittent abdominal pain, indicative of parasitic infection.
- Initial treatment with benzimidazole antihelminthics was unsuccessful.
Findings:
- The case represents a rare instance of human bertiellosis in South Africa.
- Praziquantel was administered after benzimidazole treatment failure.
- Praziquantel proved highly effective in resolving the cestode infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering zoonotic cestode infections in pediatric patients.
- Praziquantel should be considered a viable and effective treatment option for human bertiellosis.
- Further research into Bertiella epidemiology in endemic regions is warranted.
Abstract:
Cestodes of Bertiella genus are parasites of nonhuman primates. We describe a rare case of human bertiellosis in South Africa: a 3-year-old girl with a 1-year history of rectal proglottid discharge and intermittent abdominal pain. After repeated failure with benzimidazole antihelminthic treatment, praziquantel proved successful.
