Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Annotate Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content + Download Section PDF Listen ++ For further information, see CMDT Part 35-18: Noninvasive Cestode Infections + Key Features Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Generally asymptomatic Can cause nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms (eg, nausea and diarrhea) Humans can be either the definitive or intermediate host of Taenia solium Become definitive host after consuming undercooked pork, leading to tapeworm infection Become intermediate host after consuming food contaminated with human feces containing T solium eggs, leading to cysticercosis Transmission of eggs may occur as a result of Autoinfection (hand to mouth) Direct person-to-person transfer Ingestion of food or drink contaminated by eggs Rarely, regurgitation of proglottids into the stomach + Clinical Findings Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Large tapeworms are generally asymptomatic Occasionally, patients may have vague gastrointestinal symptoms Nausea Diarrhea Abdominal pain Systemic symptoms may be present Fatigue Hunger Dizziness Vomiting of proglottid segments or obstruction of the bile duct, pancreatic duct, or appendix is rare + Diagnosis Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Diagnosis usually made based on the identification of characteristic eggs or proglottids in stool Egg release may be irregular, so examination of multiple specimens or concentration techniques may be needed + Treatment Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Praziquantel Treatment of choice Single oral dose of 5–10 mg/kg is highly effective Side effects may include headache, malaise, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea Niclosamide Alternative therapy Single dose of 2 g for adults, chewed, is effective Side effects may include nausea, malaise, abdominal pain