Anisakis

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Anisakiasis
Anisakis larvae in fish
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Complications Bowel obstruction, peritonitis
Onset Minutes to hours after ingestion
Duration Days to weeks
Types N/A
Causes Ingestion of raw or undercooked fish or squid containing Anisakis larvae
Risks Consumption of raw or undercooked seafood
Diagnosis Endoscopy, biopsy, serology
Differential diagnosis Appendicitis, gastroenteritis, peptic ulcer disease
Prevention Proper cooking or freezing of seafood
Treatment Endoscopic removal of larvae, surgery if necessary
Medication Albendazole (in some cases)
Prognosis Generally good with treatment
Frequency Common in areas where raw fish is consumed
Deaths N/A


Anisakis is a genus of parasitic nematodes belonging to the family Anisakidae. Species within this genus are known for causing Anisakiasis, a parasitic infection in humans. The life cycle of Anisakis involves fish, crustaceans, and marine mammals, with humans becoming incidental hosts through the consumption of infested fish.

Anisakis simplex, a common species of Anisakis

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Anisakis nematodes are characterized by their thread-like appearance and are primarily found in the marine environment. They are known for their complex life cycle that includes multiple hosts.

Life Cycle[edit | edit source]

The typical life cycle of Anisakis involves:

  • Eggs being released into the sea by infected marine mammals.
  • The larvae hatching and being eaten by crustaceans.
  • Infected crustaceans being consumed by fish or squid, where the larvae then migrate to the muscles.
  • Marine mammals eating the infected fish, thus continuing the cycle.
  • Humans become accidental hosts when consuming raw or undercooked fish containing Anisakis larvae.

Human Infection - Anisakiasis[edit | edit source]

Anisakiasis is the disease caused by the ingestion of Anisakis larvae. Symptoms may include:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Allergic reactions in some individuals

Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis typically involves endoscopy and the visual identification of the parasite. Treatment usually involves removal of the larvae via endoscopy and sometimes surgical intervention in severe cases.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of anisakiasis involves:

  • Adequately cooking fish
  • Freezing fish at -20¬∞C (-4¬∞F) for at least 24 hours

External Links[edit | edit source]

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