fascioliasis

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is infection with Fasciola hepatica. It is spread by sheep, water, snails and edible water plants, e.g. cress.

Infection causes liver enlargement followed by fibrosis due to obstruction of the biliary tree.

The patient may present with fever, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and mild jaundice.

Diagnosis is on stool microscopy.

Treatment is with praziquantel or bithionol.