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Hymenolepiasis

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Definition:

Hymenolepiasis is infestation by one of two species of tapeworm : Hymenolepis nana or Hymenolepis diminuta .

Alternative Names:

Dwarf tapeworm infection; Rat tapeworm; Tapeworm - infection

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Hymenolepis live in warm climates and are common in the southern U.S. The eggs of these worms are ingested by insects, and mature into a life form referred to as a "cysticercoid" in the insect.

Humans and other animals become infected when they intentionally or unintentionally eat material contaminated by insects. In an infected person, it is possible for the worm's entire life-cycle to be completed in the bowel, so infection can persist for years.

Hymenolepis nana infections are much more common than Hymenolepis diminuta infections in humans. These infections were previously common in the southeastern U.S., and have been described in crowded environments and individuals confined to institutions. However, the disease occurs throughout the world.

• Review Date: 10/27/2005
• Reviewed By: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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