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Fascioliasis: case reports and review
T A Price1, C U Tuazon, G L Simon
1Department of Medicine, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC.
Summary
Two human fascioliasis cases highlight liver fluke disease stages. Praziquantel failed, but bithionol proved effective for treating this uncommon United States infection.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fasciola hepatica is a zoonotic liver fluke causing fascioliasis.
- Fascioliasis is prevalent in tropical regions but rare in the United States.
Observation:
- Two human cases of fascioliasis are presented.
- The cases illustrate both hepatic and biliary stages of the disease.
- Clinical, serologic, radiographic, and histopathologic findings are detailed.
Findings:
- Praziquantel was ineffective for treating both patients.
- Bithionol demonstrated effectiveness in treating fascioliasis.
Implications:
- Bithionol is a potential treatment for human fascioliasis.
- Understanding hepatic and biliary manifestations aids diagnosis.
- Increased awareness may improve recognition in non-endemic areas.