Liver fluke infections

Abstract

Liver flukes, otherwise known as trematodes, are leaf-like hermaphroditic flatworms. In certain parts of the world, the hepatobiliary system of humans is commonly infected by flukes of the genera Clonorchis and Opisthorchis and occasionally by other species. Humans acquire liver fluke infection by the ingestion of viable metacercariae that are found in second intermediate hosts through raw or partially cooked food, predominately cyprinid fish. These infections are usually diagnosed by finding eggs in the faeces. The diseases caused by liver flukes range from asymptomatic, mild disease to fatal bile duct cancer. Currently the drugs of choice for treatment of liver fluke infection are praziquantel and triclabendazole.