Fascioliasis

Fascioliasis is a widely distributed neglected tropical disease. Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica cause liver disease in human and livestock. The infection causes a large global health and economic impact. Children bear a disproportionate burden of fascioliasis in low- and middle-income countries. The infection may present with acute or chronic symptoms. Fascioliasis can present unspecific symptoms and remain undiagnosed, causing complications. Suspecting the diagnosis of fascioliasis requires knowledge of the parasite’s lifecycle and transmission mechanisms. During the acute infection, detection of Fasciola antibodies and imaging studies, when available, help make the diagnosis. During the chronic infection, microscopy of multiple stool specimens to detect Fasciola eggs makes the diagnosis. Triclabendazole is the only medication recommended for the treatment of all forms of fascioliasis. Patients treated for the infection should be followed for the resolution of symptoms and to perform a test for cure. Patients with acute and chronic infections should be tested using stool microscopy to ascertain clearance of the infection. Patients that fail triclabendazole should receive additional treatment using the same dose and follow-up strategy. Control and prevention of the infection requires avoiding raw leafy vegetables and mass treatment in endemic areas.