cestodët

Cestodët, commonly known as tapeworms, are parasitic flatworms belonging to the class Cestoda. They are endoparasites, meaning they live inside the digestive tract of their host. Cestodët are characterized by their long, segmented bodies, which can range from a few millimeters to several meters in length. They lack a digestive system and absorb nutrients directly through their outer layer.

The life cycle of a cestodë typically involves at least two hosts: an intermediate host and a definitive host. The adult tapeworm resides in the definitive host, where it reproduces by releasing eggs into the environment. These eggs are then ingested by an intermediate host, such as an insect, fish, or mammal. Within the intermediate host, the larvae develop into a cystic structure called a cysticercoid or a plerocercoid. When the definitive host consumes the infected intermediate host, the larvae mature into adult tapeworms in the digestive tract, completing the cycle.

Various species of cestodët infect a wide range of animals, including humans. Infection can occur through the consumption of undercooked meat containing cysticerci, or through accidental ingestion of tapeworm eggs. While many cestodë infections are asymptomatic, some can cause mild digestive upset, weight loss, or nutritional deficiencies. Diagnosis is usually made by identifying tapeworm eggs or segments in stool samples. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic medications.