Biliary Parasitic Diseases Associated with Hepatobiliary Carcinoma

Despite long-term preventative efforts by local public health authorities, the prevalence of fluke infection remains high in specific areas in eastern and southeastern Asia. Recently increasing travel or migration activities have led to the transfer and spread of such infections from endemic areas to other regions.

The epidemiology, clinical signs, and symptoms for three common blood and liver flukes, namely Schistosoma japonicum, Clonorchis sinensis, and Opisthorchis viverrini, are described in this review, and their current diagnosis and management strategy are reviewed. These flukes are considered clinically important because of the increased risk of liver or biliary cancer.

Early treatment and prevention of disease spread can reduce the incidence of related hepatobiliary cancer. Recognition of these fluke infection is essential for a correct diagnosis and early treatment to prevent the development of deadly cancers.