Summary
Hymenolepiasis is a cosmopolitan parasitosis caused by the dwarf tapeworm Hymenolepis nana. The prevalence is unknown but the disease occurs mainly in warm regions. Infection occurs through ingestion of uncooked food contaminated with faeces (containing the parasite eggs) from an affected individual or through accidental consummation of insects that have ingested Hymenolepis eggs, in which the parasite develops up until the larval stage. The symptoms, when present, are similar to those seen in patients with other tapeworm infections. Traditional tapeworm treatments (niclosamide and praziquantel) are effective against this parasitosis. Prophylactic treatment revolves around improving hand hygiene and preventing faecal contamination. *Author: Dr L. Paris (December 2006)*.
