Clonorchiasis

The Clonorchiose is caused by infestation with the Chinese liver fluke disease. It is endemic in East Asia (China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan, Korea). Cases in Europe are the exception and almost always introduced. The number of people infected is estimated at 20 to 30 million people.

Disease

As the leeches live in the intrahepatic bile ducts, the infection causes proliferation of the epithelium and connective tissue alterations in the hepatic parenchyma. An increase in the risk of bile duct cancer was found. Infection with few leeches is usually not noticed. In severe infestation (500-1000 worms) can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea and fever.

Diagnosis and Therapy

The 30 micron sized eggs are detectable in the stool. They can be easily seen using their " bulb-shaped " under the light microscope.

For treatment of praziquantel and albendazole are available. The best prophylaxis is the renunciation of the consumption of raw fish as they are in many parts of Asia to the traditional kitchen.

References

• Parasitosis of humans
• Tropical disease