Fasciolíase

Fasciolíase is a parasitic disease caused by liver flukes of the genus Fasciola, most commonly Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica. These flatworms infect the bile ducts and liver of various mammals, including humans, sheep, and cattle. The life cycle involves freshwater snails as intermediate hosts. Humans become infected by ingesting metacercariae, the infective larval stage, which are encysted on water plants or present in contaminated water.

Upon ingestion, the metacercariae excyst in the duodenum and migrate through the intestinal wall, abdominal cavity, and liver parenchyma, reaching the bile ducts. This migration phase can cause inflammation, pain, and liver damage. The adult flukes reside in the bile ducts, where they feed on blood and bile, leading to chronic inflammation, thickening of the bile ducts, and potential obstruction. Symptoms can vary depending on the stage of infection and the number of flukes. Early symptoms during migration may include fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and rash. Chronic infection can manifest as jaundice, weight loss, fatigue, and liver enlargement.

Diagnosis is typically made by detecting Fasciola eggs in stool samples or bile. Serological tests can also be used, especially in early or asymptomatic infections. Treatment usually involves antiparasitic drugs such as triclabendazole or praziquantel. Prevention focuses on avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked aquatic plants from potentially contaminated areas and ensuring safe water sources. Proper hygiene and public health measures are crucial in controlling the spread of fasciolíase.