Fascioliasis and Fasciolopsiasis: Similar Names, Similar Diseases?

This article reviews plant-borne helminth infections caused by Fasciola hepatica/gigantica and Fasciolopsis buski. Besides having similar names, both infections are caused by trematodes (flatworms or flukes). As with nearly all helminth infections, eosinophilia may be present, there is usually a delayed clinical presentation, and diagnosis is made with the proper identification of parasite eggs in the stool or serological testing. However, fascioliasis and fasciolopsiasis have more similarities including: egg morphology, parasite development, the involvement of aquatic plants and snails in the lifecycle, and preventive measures. Despite these similarities there are some important differences including: geographical distribution, definitive hosts, clinical presentation, and treatment. The SOF medical professional will have a greater understanding and be able to more easily identify both of these infections by being able to compare and contrast the two. Though these are not the most common helminth infections, these diseases are prevalent and may be of particular importance to providers working in Southeast Asia or South America. Accreditation/Designation Statement CME: This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the essential areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint sponsorship of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) and the Journal of Special Operations Medicine. USUHS designates this article for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)TM. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. CNE: The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) is accredited as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. 1.0 CNE contact hours are provided for participation in this article. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE The author of Fascioliasis and Fasciolopsiasis: Similar Names, Similar Diseases?, Lynden Bowden, MD, MPH, indicated that, within the past year, he has had no significant financial relationship with a commercial entity whose product/services are related to the topic/subject matter.