Abstract

The consumption of raw fish fillets is increasing in Taiwan. A male Taiwanese aged 30 years presented after passing a flat, white noodle-like worm. Strobila examination showed that most proglottids were wider than they were long, with the genital pore located at the posterior edge of the cirrus. Histological and coprological findings confirmed the diagnosis of Diphyllobothhum latum; ova were ellipsoidal with operculate characteristics, and had a small knob in the anti-operculum side. Hematological data, including vitamin B12 levels, were normal, except for a low folate level. The patient was treated with a single dose of praziquantel 600 mg and 196 cm of proglottids were expelled during the 3 days following treatment. Further follow-up was declined. Consumption of raw and undercooked fish (especially salmon) poses a risk of D. latum infection.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)452-456
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Microbiology, Immunology and Infection
Volume40
Issue number5
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2007

Keywords

  • Cestoda
  • Cestode infections
  • Diphyllobothrium
  • Fish products
  • Fishes
  • Taiwan

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology and Allergy

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